Manager Policy Planning & Sectoral/Regional (Ministry of National Planning Development and Statistics)

The position is responsible for the provision of advice on socio-economic policy and strategic planning on both at national and sectoral basis and also carry out economic and social evaluation of government policies. The incumbent should assist in managing national strategic planning, meeting broad goals of government and enhancing the effectiveness of government agencies across the sector. The post has specific responsibility to assist Ministries/Departments in developing proposals for consideration by Cabinet that conform with the Government’s policy and programme objective, provide advice on realistic and achievable policies which will contribute directly to achieving the Government’s policy objectives, prepare information on a wide range of national development, economic and social issues, report to the Minister on sectoral and regional policy issues, appraise, review and evaluate capital and non-capital projects for inclusion in annual budgets.

The incumbent will be responsible to synchronize the implementation of planning and budgeting processes, provide advice and encouraging partnerships between key stakeholders and national and international like-minded think tanks, as well as educational and policy research institutions, and designing strategic and long-term policy and programme frameworks and initiatives, and monitoring their progress.

Key Responsibilities

The position will achieve its purpose through the following key responsibilities:

1. Finalise the structure, roles and responsibilities of the Ministry/Department; lead formulation, coordination and monitoring of National Development Plans, long-term strategies, sector plans, and strategic frameworks.

2. Offer comprehensive socio-economic and strategic policy advice at national and sectoral levels, including carrying out economic and social evaluations of government policies and programs

3. Assist government agencies in national strategic planning, Cabinet submissions, meeting broad government goals, and enhancing performance across sectors; prepare information on national development, economic and social issues

4. Synchronize planning and budgeting processes; appraise and evaluate capital/non-capital projects; contribute to the PSIP and annual capital budget; prepare infrastructure and sustainable investment plans.

5. Encourage collaboration with stakeholders, think tanks, academia, and development partners; strengthen planning capacity in central and local government; develop innovative development policies and financing schemes.

6. Lead evaluation and review of national, sectoral and regional policies; monitor sustainable development goals; provide guidelines for data collection and action-oriented research to refine planning processes.

7. Represent the Ministry on government, inter-departmental, national, international and special committees; support policy dialogues including through the Policy Dialogue Committee.

8. Deliver corporate and business plan outputs, strengthen the Ministry as a national think tank, provide advice on global agreements and aid, and undertake any activities necessary to advance the national development agenda.’

Knowledge & Experience

1. 1. At least 10 years’ experience providing project planning, monitoring and evaluation well as in depth research and analysis experience with a focus on project planning in a large organization.
2. 2. The applicant should show evidence of well-rounded, forceful personality with proven intellectual capacity, management and supervision skills and an ability to give in depth advice. Previous experience of dealing with policy matters, conducting negotiations/discussions with senior staff in Government and Non-Government Agencies.
3. 3. Possess sound knowledge of Fiji’s economy and the various economic, fiscal and social polices of Government as well as the associated development challenges and opportunities
4. 4. Possess sound knowledge of Government financial processes and procedures, procurement regulations and law
5. 5. High level experience dealing with economic policy matters, conducting negotiations/consultations with senior staff in Government and Non-Government agencies

Skills & Abilities

1. 1. Ability to give comprehensive advice on strategic planning and national development matters to the Head of Strategic Planning.
2. 2. Ability to formulate and implement policies, programmes and initiatives to ensure the successful delivery of Ministry outcomes.
3. 3. Ability to exercise effective judgement, sensitivity and creativity to changing needs and situations;
4. 4. Ability to work under pressure and beyond normal work hours, multi-task and respond quickly to the Permanent Secretary and/or Minister when required
5. 5. Ability to manage resources, lead and mentor staff effectively
6. 6. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with high proficiency in technology use.

Additional Information

All applications for employment in the Ministry must be of good character, with a background that demonstrates their commitment to the public service values contained in the Fiji Constitution. Applicants must also be a Fijian Citizen, preferably under the age of 60, in sound health, with a clear police record. The selected applicant will be required to provide a medical certificate and police clearance prior to taking up duty.

The Ministry of National Planning Development and Statistics is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Applications are encouraged from all eligible, qualified applicants. Only specific Knowledge, Experience, Skills and Abilities on the job will be considered in assessing the relative suitability of applicants.