Tax Policy Advisor Adam Smith International

Adam Smith International (ASI) is seeking a Short-Term Tax Policy Advisor to assist the Ministry of Finance (FPD in particular) in Kabul in quantifying the fiscal impacts on the government budget resulting from VAT introduction and other tax policy changes, including changes in the fiscal regime within the mining sector. The advisor would also work on tax policy recommendations, on assessing long term impacts of tax policy decisions and helping to integrating them within the government’s medium term fiscal framework.

This role will last 6 months (over period starting August 2013) with the possibility of extension.

Background to ASI

ASI is a leading independent management consultancy firm that provides economic growth and government reform advice to a range of clients in the public, private and civil society sectors. The company was founded in 1992 in response to the growing need by development agencies for practical advice on economic and government reform in developing countries and emerging markets.

Based in London, with registered offices in Nairobi and New Delhi, and with major project offices located in many developing and transitional countries worldwide, ASI’s mission is to apply our professional and consulting skills towards improving the quality of life for the citizens of countries facing the need for economic, political and social change.

Background to the programme

Adam Smith International is delivering a budget and fiscal policy reform programme for DFID in the Ministry of Finance in Kabul. This three year project aims at supporting a comprehensive, results-focused multi-year budget process that develops national budgets in line with fiscally sustainable levels of spending.

Afghanistan is heavily dependent on aid flows. Increasing tax revenues is a major priority of both the government and donors and an area of recognised success. The government also needs now to develop are more comprehensive assessment of its fiscal sustainability, in order to pave the way for a future in which aid flows are likely to be less forthcoming.

The objective of this role is to assist the MOF (and its Fiscal Policy Directorate in particular) in supporting modelling of  the revenue and economy-wide impacts of tax policy decisions, with a particular focus on the introduction of VAT and any changes in the mining fiscal regime. In addition the advisor would provide recommendations on further tax policy changes and incorporate analysis into medium term fiscal projections. The role will require intensive work with the Fiscal Policy Directorate to transfer skills.

Responsibilities

The Advisor will:

• Develop an analytical document assessing the fiscal impact of VAT introduction on the central budget in a short-, and medium-term perspective; and
• Develop tax policy recommendations, based on assessment of current tax policy, revenue generation needs and economic impact.

Skills and experience required

Essential

• Masters or PhD in Economics;
• Strong experience in revenue modelling; and
• Experience working in a developing country.

Desirable

• Experience working in Afghanistan
• PhD in Economics

How to apply

Please send a CV and short cover email to amy.johns@adamsmithinternational.com  with a subject line of “Tax Policy Advisor – [Name]” by 26 May 2013. Applications will be reviewed periodically, therefore applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.