Senior Economist (Grade 6) 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 conduct economic research and case analysis, contribute to competition policy development, provide economic guidance on cases and projects, and support the delivery of high-quality, economically sound outcomes across the Commission.

The role requires an individual to have a need to achieve results in a logical manner, whilst at the same time maintaining quality and ensuring that standards are met. The role calls for an analytical person who is capable of communicating facts and information to others. The incumbent should be consistent, adaptable, precise, careful, self-starting, inquisitive, friendly and confident within the required area of knowledge and expertise. This role has some specialist or technical aspects and is likely to expose the successful candidate to different aspects of competition law and economics.

A starting annual total cost to company package of R 1 294 895,38 (negotiable commensurate with experience)

Please note this position is available on a five-year fixed term contract.

Key Accountabilities

The main responsibilities of the incumbent will, inter alia, include:

• To provide guidance to economist(s) and junior economist(s) in the Division with regards to case analysis.
• Identify research activities and priorities relevant to the development of competition policy. Report and account for case activities in the division.
• Advise other divisions with regard to economic underpinnings of competition issues.
• Contribute to the provision of the theoretical and intellectual platform for the effective implementation of the Competition Act.

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

• Applicants MUST have a Masters degree in Economics, with training and experience in Advanced Microeconomics, Applied Micro Econometrics, Industrial Organization and International Trade being an advantage. 
• 6 - 8 years’ competition and regulatory environment work experience, including a track record of independently leading complex projects or investigations within multi-disciplinary teams within a regulatory body or a specialist economic research environment.
• Proven experience in the supervision and mentorship of junior staff members.
• Strong analytical skills and experience in managing research are essential.
• 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.

Personality and Attributes

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

• Fit with the Commissions Values (Communication, Ownership, Making a difference, Professionalism, Employee Welfare, Teamwork, Efficiency.
• Be a Visionary. A strategic thinker.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• The ability to work under pressure.
• An energetic, committed individual with strong attention to detail.
• Interpersonal and leadership skills. 

We offer:

• A competitive compensation structure
• A supportive, stimulating working environment
• An opportunity for you to actively participate in reaching the objectives of building an efficient, functioning, free and fair economy for all South Africans.
• 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 and inclusive Economy that serves all South Africans 

Employment Equity:

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

Diversity and Inclusion:

• Persons with Disability are encouraged to apply.
• The Competition 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 Competition Commission reserves the right not to fill this position subject to budget, organisational priorities and other considerations.