Research Assistant, International Trade & Regional Co-operation (ITRC) Commonwealth Secretariat

Job Title: Division: Paypoint:

Research Assistant (6 months) EAD L


Reports to: Head of Section Trade (Economic Affairs Division)

General Information

The Economic Affairs Division is responsible for the Secretariat’s programmes on national and international economic issues and, with other divisions, for assisting member countries to improve economic policy-making, management and governance. The Commonwealth is committed to the Millennium Development Goals, which include targets on eliminating extreme poverty and hunger, promoting gender equality, ensuring environmental sustainability, and developing a global partnership for development. The Secretariat plays a key role in helping to identify solutions to the trade and economic problems and challenges affecting Commonwealth developing countries; in achieving an international consensus on these solutions through analytical/diagnostic work and advocacy; and in providing policy advice to governments. Practical assistance for economic development is a core Secretariat activity and a high priority for governments.

Job Summary

The Temporary Research Officer will assist the ITRC section with research and project implementation work. Research support will amongst others involve, providing support on ongoing studies and assisting with the implementation of other ITRC programme activities. This shall include but will not be limited to; helping with preparation of terms of reference and contracts for external consultants, assisting in the supervision of specified projects, organisation and conduct of workshops, seminars and conferences and review and appraisal of studies and reports.

Task description

• Assist in and conduct as required trade and related research statistical analysis
• Assist in the preparation of briefs, studies and reports
• Assist in data collection and analysis and on selected trade issues
• Drafting of policy briefs, speeches and reports
• Prepare literature reviews
• Assist in the editing, reviewing, refining and finalisation of selected studies
• Support ITRC staff in the organization of meetings/ workshops/seminars/conferences
• Undertake any other tasks assigned by Head of Section or the Division’s Director.

Person specification

Education

Post Graduate qualification in economics or other relevant field;


Experience

At least two years of post graduate research or operation in economics or trade policy

Competencies:
Respect for Diversity
Works effectively with people from all backgrounds.
Treats all people with dignity and respect. Treats men and women equally.
Shows respect and understanding of diverse points of view and demonstrates understanding in daily work and decision making.
Examine own biases and behaviours to avoid stereotypical responses and does not discriminate against any individual or group.
Identifies biases in systems & processes
Working with Others
Regularly shares information of value with colleagues
Shows commitment to delivering on key agreements made to colleagues
Makes an effort to view a situation from the other party’s perspective as well
Demonstrates awareness and sensitivity to colleagues’ pressures
Utilises networks to ensure similar goals are achieved collaboratively
Develops long term relationships across cultures and/or geographical boundaries
Uses relationships to identify the best people to help in the completion of tasks
Tactfully deals with difficult people to gain buy-in and manage their expectations
Developing & Applying Expertise
Takes advantage of opportunities to develop an area of expertise
Takes learning from previous experience and applies them appropriately
Demonstrates willingness to learn new skills and/or approaches
Adapting & Innovating
Recognises opportunities for improvement and proposes change with impact and effect
Helps others evaluate and strengthen ideas
Quickly grasps new concepts and how to apply them
Demonstrates flexibility e.g. by working beyond own remit in order to achieve an objective inter alia
Will effectively reorganise activities when faced with changing contexts and demands
Welcomes and adapts to new ideas and/or approaches
Adapts personal style to meet the needs of others
Accountability
Takes ownership of assigned tasks, honours deadlines.
Ensures timely delivery of outputs within defined cost and quality standard parameters.
Takes ownership of assigned tasks, honours deadlines (L1)
Ensures timely delivery of outputs (L1)