Government Statistician (Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics)

The position leads and manages the Fiji Bureau of Statistics in the production and publication of economic, socio- economic, household, population census and housing statistical information and reports in an efficient and effective manner for national policy formulation and decision making.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead the Fiji Bureau of Statistics to address its Mandate, implement strategic directions and evaluate the long-term Vision as stated in Strategic and Operational plans.

2. Provide high level advice on statistical matters, and development priorities to the Minister and the Permanent Secretary based on the activities of the Bureau.

3. Actively promote the use of statistical products in evidence-based decision making across government and in regional and international forums.

4. Promote the introduction of latest international techniques, practices, standards, classifications and statistical software to produce top quality products and services.

5. Represent the Bureau in key stakeholder meetings, consultations and negotiations, locally and internationally.

6. Strengthen statistical evidence in Fiji through facilitating international collaboration and activities to ensure efficient and accurate collection of reliable, relevant statistics across key domains like population, health, labour, and economics. Additionally, advocate for evidence-informed policy initiatives such as the development of a national population policy to support national development planning and decision-making.

7. Ensure all reports, releases and publications from the Bureau are high quality and meet client and stakeholder needs.

8. Ensure safe and ethical data management and capacity to respond timely in emergencies. Work with stakeholders to make the use of statistics more relevant to planning and increase the public appreciation of the value of official statistics.

9. Encourage the use of new techniques and technology to improve the quality and efficiency of statistics. Strengthen staff capacity through development and training, and improve coordination among government institutions through the implementation of the National Statistical Development Strategy.

10. Lead all corporate requirements of the Bureau, including planning, budgeting, performance management and selection activities.

Knowledge & Experience

1. At least 15 years’ relevant experience with 5 years leading and developing the skills of a large team of professional and/or technical staff.
2. Experience in ensuring the accuracy and quality of reports provided to executive leaders.
3. Experience in utilizing statistical products to guide high level decision making.
4. Sound knowledge of relevant Fijian national policies, machinery of government and associated development challenges and opportunities, or experience that demonstrates the ability to rapidly apply knowledge from other jurisdictions to the Fijian context.
5. Understanding of change management approaches when implementing needed change in a diverse organization.
6. Service oriented approach, with a commitment to supporting the operational/ corporate environment of the organization.

Skills & Abilities

1. Demonstrated ability to provide high level detailed advice and recommendations to senior management and key stakeholders on the use and value of statistical products and evidence for planning and decision making.
2. Demonstrated ability to ensure the accurate and high-quality production of data and information.
3. Ability to develop, lead and manage a high performing team of technical and support staff in a multicultural environment.
4. Demonstrated ability to plan, think and perceive strategically and manage physical resources effectively.
5. Demonstrated ability to promote and explain the use of statistical products in evidence-based decision making, at all levels of government and in regional and international forums.
6. Excellent interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills with the capacity to represent the Ministry and Government effectively in national, regional and international forums and to interact and build strong network with stakeholders at all levels.
7. Capacity to utilize computer programs to support the operations of a complex organization.

Additional Information

Applicants for employment must be of good character, with a background that demonstrates their commitment to the civil service values contained in the Fijian Constitution. Applicants must also be Fijian Citizens, under age 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 the duty.

The Fiji Bureau of Statistics is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Applications are encouraged from all eligible, qualified applicants. All applicants must address the specific knowledge, experience, skills and abilities required for the job, as these criteria will be considered in assessing the relative suitability of applicants.

Contact Information

For more information please contact the HR Team on 3315-822.