Economist (Grade 7) Economic Research Bureau Division

The Economic Research Bureau (ERB) provides economic analysis, research and policy support to advance the Commission’s mandate, applying sound economic principles to competition matters, cases and policy development.

Reporting to the Principal Economist, the successful candidate will provide economic analysis and research support on competition matters, contribute to case investigations and policy development, and assist in ensuring the sound application of economic principles across the Commission’s work.

Applicants should be organised, thorough and enjoy challenging situations. Attention to detail, ensuring quality and standards are met and keeping errors to a minimum are important factors in this position. Researching and gathering facts are an important part of the role. The successful incumbent will participate in economic research in line with the Commission’s mandate to address anti-competitive conduct and evaluate mergers.

A starting annual total Cost to Company package of R 1 092 619,93 (negotiable commensurate with experience) 
 
Please note this position is available on a five-year fixed term contract, renewable. 

Key Accountabilities 

The main responsibilities of the incumbent will, amongst others, include to: 

• Assist with the gathering of evidence and rigorous economic analysis of competition cases under investigation along with the drafting of investigation reports within the cartels, market conduct and mergers divisions. 

• Assist with the drafting of expert economic reports filed with the Competition Tribunal on competition cases in litigation. 

• Assistance to the expert economist and legal teams for cases in litigation before the Competition Tribunal, including rebuttal evidence and cross-examination of witnesses. 

• Contribute to and lead economic research in support of the Commission’s strategy including research on specific sectors or competition issues, scoping of market inquiries, monitoring economic concentration, identification of barriers to entry and expansion, identifying the underlying causes of the high cost of living and key developments in other jurisdictions.  

• Contribute to and lead research into the proactive initiation of competition complaints   

• Contribute to and lead research into regional, continental and international cross-border competition issues 

• Contribute to the provision of the theoretical and intellectual platform for the effective implementation of the Competition Act, including the drafting of guidelines. 

• Assist in preparing an address to various Industry forums with respect to the economic implications of decisions taken on specific cases, participating in the meetings as appropriate. 

We are looking for a dynamic, hardworking and a committed individual who meets the following requirements: 

• Applicants MUST have a Masters degree in Economics. 

• Training and experience in Microeconomics, Econometrics, Industrial Organization and/or International Trade is considered to be advantageous. 

• Strong analytical skills are essential. 

• Minimum of 4 – 6 years work experience in a rigorous economic analysis environment. 

• Knowledge and understanding of the purpose and objectives of the Competition Act, the Competition Commission and the South African economy is highly recommended. 

Other considerations:  

• Practical work exposure to area of expertise will be further considered to balance against other requirements. 

Primary Purpose of the job: 

• To conduct economic research, case analysis and competition policy development; ensuring the application of sound economic principles in all work performed.

Personality and Attributes 

Over and above well-developed technical skills in your specialisation areas, the incumbent must demonstrate, amongst others: 

• Fit with the Commissions Values (Communication, Ownership, Making a difference, Professionalism, Employee Welfare, Teamwork, Efficiency). 

• Be a strategic thinker. 

• Strong research and analytical skills. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills. 

• Have strong interpersonal skills. 

• The ability to work under pressure. 

• Planning and organising skills. 

• An energetic, committed individual with strong attention to detail.  

• Have leadership and team supervision skills. 

• Have diplomacy, negotiation and stakeholder management skills. 

We offer: 

• An opportunity for you to actively participate in reaching the objectives of building an efficient, functioning, deconcentrated and inclusive economy for all South Africans. 

• A competitive compensation structure. 

• A supportive, stimulating working environment. 

• Exposure to excellent training opportunities. 

• An opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the attainment of the Commission's vision 2030 of a Competitive, Dynamic, Deconcentrated that serves all South Africans. 

Employment Equity: 

• Over and above operational requirements, our appointment will take into account the country’s and organisational Employment Equity imperatives. 

Diversity and Inclusion:  

• Persons with Disability are encouraged to apply. 

• The Commission is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. 

Application Process:  

• All international qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA accreditation certificate. 

• Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo psychometric assessments. 

• The successful candidate will be vetted for security purposes. 

• The Commission reserves the right not to fill this position subject to budget, organisational priorities and other considerations.