Principal Programme Management Officer

About the role

The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) seeks a senior professional to lead the African Institute for Economic Development and Planning (IDEP) in Dakar. Reporting to the Deputy Executive Secretary – Programme Support, the Principal Programme Management Officer will shape and deliver IDEP’s work programme, strengthening member states’ capacity for evidence‑based policy development and implementation.

Key responsibilities

• Formulate and implement IDEP’s strategic work programme, allocate resources and ensure timely delivery of outputs.
• Oversee human, financial and operational resources, including budgeting, recruitment with gender and geographic balance, and staff performance management.
• Lead the preparation and organization of seminars, meetings and knowledge products, ensuring high‑quality standards and compliance with mandates.
• Coordinate reporting to intergovernmental bodies such as the Economic and Social Council and the UN General Assembly, and manage statutory meetings of IDEP’s governing bodies.
• Represent IDEP at international and regional forums, mobilize resources, and build partnerships with development finance institutions and multilateral banks.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in programme formulation, implementation and evaluation within an international or UN context.
• Proven leadership and management skills, including staff supervision, performance appraisal and fostering teamwork.
• Strong knowledge of development planning, socio‑economic policy, and capacity‑development processes.
• Ability to produce high‑quality analytical reports and to engage with senior officials and intergovernmental bodies.