Head Of Department : Physical Science

PURPOSE OF THIS ROLE The purpose of this role is to conduct research on country (political, economic) and industry issues and provide expert analysis to the corporation that enables effective decision making and drives strategy.

The incumbent will also be responsible for supervising, coaching, and mentoring junior staff.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES, MEASURES & INTERFACES Under the guidance of the Head of the Unit, the Senior Economist; Country Risk & Industry Analysis will:

1. Apply analytical tools necessary to identify, assess, manage, and monitor country credit / industry risks; implement and maintain the ECIC underwriting engines to comply with international best practice.
2. Conduct debt sustainability analysis on countries and make recommendations to key committees.
3. Conduct macro-economic research and analysis (incl. trends, drivers, risks) leading to the compilation of publications, reports on recent trends, speeches, and presentations.
4. Develop methods and procedures for collecting and processing data, utilizing knowledge of available sources of data and various econometric and sampling techniques.
5. Source, compile, and analyze statistical information for use in quantitative as well as graphical analyses.
6. Provide macroeconomic insights to assist in fundamental sector / industry research.
7. Analyze and provide feedback on major free trade agreements (impact on countries, sectors, timing, etc.) and major legislation and its impact on various sectors (including national development plans).
8. Prepare quarterly economic strategy reports, including South African and global economic write-ups, to be presented to clients, executives, and at strategic Board meetings.
9. Lead economic research projects (country and industry) that identify trade and investment opportunities for the benefit of South African exporters and investors, including socio-economic and / or regional development.
10. Supervise, edit, and oversee quality control issues.
11. Prepare and write articles that positively position the Corporation's brand, products, and services across all its target markets, including opinion editorials on regional development and export credit insurance industry transformational initiatives in various media channels.
12. Conduct presentations on various media platforms and participate in various fora (locally & internationally).

Key Measures Technical reports writing and presentation. Strategic ad hoc research & analysis. Interaction with internal & external clients & stakeholders.

Key Interfaces All Operational functions. ECIC key stakeholders. Staff of the Corporation.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE At least 7 years of relevant experience. A Master's Degree in Economics, Econometrics, Political Science, or Development Finance is a requirement. Ability to research and analyze information on countries and key industries compilation of country and industry reports. Advanced Microsoft (Excel / Word / PowerPoint) and usage of econometric models. Ability to utilize Bloomberg and other Terminal Services. Demonstration of previously published articles is a requirement. The candidate must be able to present various research topics on various platforms.

SKILLS & ABILITIES Strong economic & international relations research. Advanced report writing skills. Excellent communication and writing skills. Ability to work independently. Ability to use own initiatives. Ability to prioritize own tasks effectively. Ability to work under pressure. Problem-solving skills to identify issues and present creative and practical solutions.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES Problem Solving: Demonstrates adequate problem-solving skills and appropriately applies proven solutions. Business Acumen: Develops and uses a strategy to target own time (and time of others) on a portfolio of customers to maximize revenue and profitability. Delivery: Translates business objectives into practical, prioritized, and organized action plans; ensures plans are safely and successfully implemented. Conflict Resolution: Identifies and pushes for solutions in which all parties can benefit. Team Participation: Consistently offers relevant input to team discussions as issues are being clarified and solutions are being developed. Flexibility: Available to work more than ordinary business hours.

APPLICATIONS Closing Date: Sunday, 23rd February.