Economic/Commercial specialist - American Embassy

Introduction

The Somali Unit has an opening for the position of Economic/Commercial specialist. The position will be available immediately.mClosing date for this position is January 17, 2014.

Qualifications Required:  

• A university degree in political science, economics, development, international relations or any other related field is required.  
• Five years experience in areas related to Somali affairs is required. Experience required in aspects of international affairs and social science research/analysis in economic, commercial, politics or closely related field.
• Level IV (fluent) English and Level IV (fluent) Somali is required.   

Other Criteria

• Must have a thorough knowledge and deep understanding of Somali  institutions, personalities, business leaders, regional dynamics, and history, in addition to an extensive knowledge and understanding of US foreign policy objectives vis-as-vis Somalia.
• Must possess an in-depth understanding of the Somali clan system and affiliations, and religious groupings and regional dynamics.
• Must have good communication skills with strong analytical and writing skills.

Job Specification

Serves as a senior advisor to the Special Representative for Somalia (SRS) and the Somalia Unit on economic, commercial and political affairs, including military affairs. Serves as the liaison between the Somalia Unit and relevant Somali government bodies, including local/regional governments and the Federal Government of Somalia.  Advises the Unit’s Economic/Commercial Officer on entry points to Somalia’s private sector, labor issues, regulatory frameworks, and general issues related to Somalia’s political economy. Builds a solid and diverse contact base for the Somalia Unit, increasing the number and quality of high-level contacts in the government, business, military, and civil society. Negotiates with contacts, under the instruction of the Econ/Commercial Officer or through the chain, to advance USG policy goals.  Advises the Unit and facilitates U.S. government activities to improve transparency, strengthen security, and improve the commercial environment.  Serves as the grant manager for the Department’s Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Fund for Somalia (SSHF) and the Democracy and Human Rights Fund (DHRF) and any other Department grant programs that may be allocated to the Somalia Unit. Serves as the grant manager for the African Development Foundation’s supplement to the Ambassador’s SSHF and any other non-State grants that may be allocated to the Unit.

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