Economist, Economic Research Bureau Division (Grade 7) at The Competition Commission

Job Description

The Competition Commission seeks to recruit dynamic, hard-working and committed individuals to fill the role of an economist in the Economic Research Bureau Division. 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 job.   The successful individuals will participate in economic research in line with the Commission’s mandate to address anti-competitive conduct and evaluate mergers.

Skills and Experience

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.

Key Accountabilities

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

• Assist with the rigorous economic analysis of competition cases.
• Contribute to the provision of the theoretical and intellectual platform for the effective implementation of the Competition Act.
• Advise other divisions with regard to economic underpinnings of competition issues.

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 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.