The U.S. Embassy Mogadishu (located in Nairobi) is seeking eligible and qualified applicants for the position of Economic/Commercial Specialist

BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION

• Under the general supervision of the Economic and Commercial Officer, gathers information on economic and political trends, performs analysis and reporting, and represents U.S. commercial interests in Somalia. 
• Develops and maintains a broad network of contacts in the Federal Government of Somalia and the Federal Member States, private sector, and civil society.
• Periodic Travel to Somalia may be required.
• Liaises with other U.S. government agencies such as USAID and Department of Commerce.  Reports to the Economic Officer.

 

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Gathers information from a wide range of governmental, non-governmental and private sector sources; analyzes economic, commercial, and broad political trends; and performs analysis and reporting to the Embassy’s Political-Economic Unit.  Specific areas monitored include foreign debt, foreign aid, banking, the national budget, trade, agriculture, communications, infrastructure, natural resources (oil, gas, and mining), manufacturing activities, regional economic integration, labor, transportation, and aviation.  Conducts extensive research on topics as directed, analyzes the impact of new legislation and drafts reporting on a wide range of economic and commercial subjects.  Monitors, analyzes, and reports on government and international organization economic and commercial programs, including the work of the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and the United Nations Development Program.   (30% of time)

 

• Develops contacts throughout Somalia, across clans, at the national and regional government levels, in business and commercial operations, and in other missions.  Through these contacts, gathers information and develops analyses on economic, security, commercial and political developments in Somalia and in the region.  Maintains key contacts with top political officials and business executives, traditional clan elders, civil society organizers, and youth leaders.  Prepares and maintains biographic reports on key figures in the private sector and relevant ministries.       (20% of time)

 

• Takes the lead in drafting congressionally mandated and/or internal Department reports related to labor, budget transparency, corruption, financial crimes, child labor, country commercial guide, or other economic issues as directed by the Political-Economic Section.  Exercises judgment to assess breaking news, verify information, and contribute to the drafting of analytical cables on economic developments.  Forecasts likely future developments and trends.  Recommends and organizes meetings for the Ambassador and Embassy to advance U.S. policy.    (20% of time)

 

• Promotes U.S. commercial interests in Somalia by providing business counseling for U.S. business representatives and Somalians interested in U.S. goods and services, identifying and reporting on business opportunities, and drafting the Investment Climate Report. May assist in resolving trade disputes and in the formation of marketing strategies for U.S firms. Administers the commercial promotion program of the Embassy by coordinating participation in trade events, providing business counseling for U.S. business representatives and Somalians interested in U.S. goods and services, and reporting on business opportunities.  Monitors bilateral and multilateral assistance projects for possible U.S. commercial opportunities.   (15% of time)                                                                                                                                           
• Manages much of Post interaction and coordination with Somalian government for official visits.  May serve as an interpreter at meetings for official visitors.  Serves as member of the interagency economic development team and assists the economic officer in shaping Embassy participation in economic initiatives.  At the request of Pol/Econ office, may coordinate the activities and reporting of the other Pol/Econ LE Staff.  As needed, manages applicable grants programs at Post such as the Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Fund.  Conducts call for proposals and initial evaluations of applicants’ suitability for funding, including coordinating with project managers and references.  Participates on any associated selection committees and prepare necessary documents for the committees.  Communicates reporting requirements to grantees and develops a mechanism for monitoring and evaluation.  Manages the vetting of potential grantees.  Works with USAID accountants to ensure the timely distribution of funds, collect pro-forma invoices and receipts, and maintains financial records as required by the Department.  Drafts close-out reports after grants have ended.   (15% of time)

 

• At least four years of progressively responsible experience in either of the following areas - economic research, statistical analysis, international trade and marketing, government, politics, commercial affairs, education, newspaper reporting, or closely related field is required.

• Must maintain an extensive range of high-level contacts with Government of Somalia representatives and important economic, political, and civil society actors.
• Must have Strong analytical and English language writing skills.

How to Apply:  All candidates must be able to obtain a Local Security Certification.

Interested candidates for this position must submit their application to the following for consideration: https://erajobs.state.gov/dos-era/ken/vacancysearch/searchVacancies.hms

Required Documents: Please provide the required documentation listed below with your application:

• Residency and/or Work Permit (If applicable)
• DD-214 - Member Copy 4, Letter from Veterans’ Affairs, or other supporting documentation (if applicable)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) (Mandatory)
•   Four-year university degree in Business (Administration, Banking, Management, Finance, Marketing, Government, and International Relations), Economics, Political Science, Law or Legal Studies, or Communications (Mandatory)