Job Summary

The RTA Section is responsible for implementing the WTO Transparency Mechanism for RTAs and providing analysis and guidance on the systemic implications of RTAs for the multilateral trading system. It services the Committee on Regional Trade Agreements (CRTA) and provides support for the Committee on Trade and Development meeting in Dedicated Session on RTAs. It is responsible for the update and maintenance of the WTO RTA database established under the Transparency Mechanism. The Section also supports RTA negotiations in the Negotiating Group on Rules as needed. The Section takes part in WTO technical assistance activities, including regional trade policy courses (RTPCs), Advanced Trade Policy Courses (ATPCs) and courses for least developed countries. In addition, it organizes and holds regional or national seminars on RTAs as requested by Members.

Key Duties And Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Chief of Section and the overall guidance by the Director of the Division, the incumbent is expected to make substantial contributions to all the functions of the Section. These include:

Draft factual presentations of RTAs notified to the WTO; Assist in preparing documentation for the CRTA, including Chair notes, reports on meetings, and background notes; Provide technical assistance (in Geneva and elsewhere) and contribute to the design of training activities and the development of training material, including eLearning courses on issues covered by the RTA Section; Carry out research and analysis, in particular on the impact of RTAs on international trade and their relationship with the multilateral trading system; this includes interpreting statistics, producing relevant quantitative and empirical outputs, as well as developing and reviewing preliminary drafts; Carry out other relevant work of the Division, including the preparation of briefing notes for Senior Management, as requested by the Director of the Division; Develop relevant expertise in specific geographic areas, trade policies, economic issues and/or relevant techniques and processes and stay abreast of developments in the field; Contribute to outreach activities related to the Division’s work, including through participating in the organization of seminars, workshops or conferences.

Qualification, Skill And Experience

Education:

An advanced degree in Economics or related field is required, with excellent knowledge of the economics of trade and trade policy, and of the relationship between RTAs and the multilateral trading system in particular. A PhD in Economics or related field with a relevant specialization will be an advantage.

Knowledge and Skills:

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

Excellent understanding of relevant WTO Agreements and the WTO system. Sound knowledge of the rules and procedures as they relate to RTAs and their relationship with other WTO rules. Excellent knowledge of RTAs as well as other important developments and negotiations in process.

Excellent knowledge of international trade (economics and policy), including regional trade policy trends and the impact of RTAs on the multilateral trading system.

Excellent policy-related research and drafting skills, as demonstrated e.g. by contributions to economic/analytical reports, background analyses, and working papers; publications in peer-reviewed economic journals will be an advantage.

Highly developed analytical skills; up-to-date knowledge in the field of applied econometrics, statistics and/or data science will be an advantage.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.

Knowledge of programming languages, such as R, Python or equivalent, will be an advantage.

Excellent presentation skills with the ability to address both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Behavioural Skills:

Strong ability to work independently, with good judgement to determine the sensitive of issues; the reliability of available data and information; and the analytical methodology employed.

Excellent teamwork skills; ability to problem-solve.

Ability to work in a dynamic environment, demonstrating excellent organizational skills including through working under pressure, and meeting strict deadlines.

Highly developed tact and discretion including political sensitivity; good diplomatic and communication skills; and ability to build constructive relationships with people both inside and outside the Organization.

Organisational Competencies:

• Communication for Results
• Effective Collaboration
• Cultivating Progressive Growth
• Professional Accountability
• Relevant Digital Proficiency
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Work Experience:

A minimum of three years of professional experience in a relevant position related to trade policy analysis, which may include experience gained in an academic institution.

Languages:

Excellent knowledge of English, including a demonstrated ability to communicate accurately, concisely and clearly, both orally and in writing. Good knowledge of French and/or Spanish will be a strong advantage.

Level of Education: Postgraduate Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: 36