The incumbent is an Economic and Commercial Specialist in the Economic Section
providing advanced economic analysis and essential support to advance USG economic and commercial diplomacy priorities. Researches
analyzes
and reports on developments in the economic and commercial sectors in Malawi. Develops and maintains contacts across the spectrum of economic policy makers
business leaders
and civil society to inform the USG about relevant economic activity and the investment climate in Malawi. Provides business facilitation services to U.S. companies operating in or interested in operating in Malawi.Monitor all aspects of the Malawian economy in order to provide in-depth analysis to a range of interested parties in the United States Government on policies and trends impacting USG interests in Malawi
including the investment climate
transparency
reform plans
trade
finance
macroeconomics
agriculture
intellectual property rights
infrastructure
labor rights
child labor
and gender equality. Coordinate with other USG agencies to both obtain and share relevant information. (25%)Cultivate existing and develop new contacts at all levels of government
private sector
academia
and civil society. Use these contacts to provide information
broad-based analysis
and effective evaluation of economic trends and policy implications
as well as assist in developing guest lists for Embassy events. Facilitate introductions to contacts for other Embassy employees. Maintain a reliable contact database. Serve as back-up to the Protocol Assistant in maintaining computer-based contact database for the Front Office. Serve as back-up to the Protocol Assistant
assisting the Front Office with official events
preparing invitations
advising on protocol matters
translating and preparing correspondence
and maintaining the contact database. (25%)Draft reports and cables on policies and trends impacting USG interests in Malawi. Draft required USG reports including the Country Commercial Guide
the Investment Climate Statement
the Fiscal Transparency Report
the annual Report on the Worst Forms of Child Labor
and the AGOA eligibility report. Contribute to other Embassy reporting as appropriate. (20%)Compile and maintain an extensive range of data covering key areas of the economy. Analyze data and prepare insightful presentations of data to inform policy and interested parties. Keep abreast of a variety of published and unpublished materials and data sources to inform analysis. (10%)Provide market facilitation services to U.S. companies. Brief U.S. companies on market opportunities and the investment climate; monitor and report on local laws and regulations impacting U.S. commercial interests; and monitor and share trade
procurement
and investment opportunities. Provide services in compliance with the partner post agreement with the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service. Support advocacy for approved U.S. companies. (10%)Support the travel of USG personnel (Embassy personnel and visitors) through logistical arrangements
scheduling meetings
and providing briefings. Support the Economic and Commercial Officer with administrative and logistical tasks and other duties as assigned. Perform own logistical
administrative
and clerical work. (10%)