Manager, Economic Research

Role Responsibilities

Reporting to the Director, Economic Analysis and Modelling, this position leads a variety of functions that advance economic development policy and information products through economic research, analysis and modelling, competitiveness benchmarking, environmental scanning, and scenario development and modelling. This position is responsible for the assembly, analysis and dissemination of economic and business information in support of Department activities within the Economic Strategy and Investment Division. 

This position also ensures that strong working relationships are maintained across the branch, division, ministry, other ministries, and with multiple internal and external stakeholder groups to maintain awareness of their perspectives and queries, and to engage their participation and support for branch initiatives.

Under the leadership of this position, the unit also identifies new data sources and ways of collecting data to inform understanding of the investment climate, related risk factors, and economic development opportunities and risks. This involves the creation of novel and innovative ways in using data and models to inform economic development policies and programs.

As the Manager, Economic Research, you will be accountable for the following key activities in the division/branch:

• Manages the work of their Sub-Unit in Economic Analysis and Modelling Unit which provides economic research and analysis and advice impacting Alberta's economic performance and business competitiveness on an ongoing basis
• Responds to economic issues and concerns about Alberta's business competitiveness in a timely and effective manner
• Fulfill other leadership and management duties for the efficient operation of the unit

Please click on this link to view the job description for this position.

APS Competencies

Competencies are behaviors that are essential to reach our goals in serving Albertans. We encourage you to have an in depth understanding of the competencies that are required for this opportunity and to be prepared to demonstrate them during the recruitment process.

This link will assist you with understanding competencies: https://www.alberta.ca/system/files/custom_downloaded_images/psc-alberta-public-service-competency-model.pdf
 

• Systems Thinking - This role requires in-depth knowledge of economic development principles and analytical tools, such as economic and financial modelling, environmental scanning, trends analysis and scenario planning. A wide breadth of professional experience required to navigate a broad range of economic issues impacting the department is also required.
• Creative Problem Solving - Position requires considerable analytical, interpretive and evaluative thinking to synthesize a diversity of information and to anticipate the impact of the branches actions and initiatives.
• Agility - The Manager operates within a well-defined strategic frame of reference; however, exercises a high degree of judgment and interpretation. The position responds to emerging issues in the context of the economic issues and direction provided by the Director. The position works closely with the Division's Executive Directors, Assistant Deputy Minister's Offices and the Deputy Minister's Office in resolving issues within set timelines.
• Build Collaborative Environments - The Manager supports the activities of the division by providing issues resolution, facilitation and implementation of priorities and strategic plans. The position creates, supports and encourages the space and processes to optimize executive decision making.

Qualifications

University graduation in Economics, Statistics, and Econometrics or in a closely field related to the position assignment, supplemented by four years related experience. Related experience or education may be considered as an equivalency on a one for one basis.

The position requires the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

• A master's degree in economics, statistics, econometrics or equivalent is an asset.
• Knowledge of economic development principles and analytical tools such as economic and financial modelling, environmental scanning, trend analysis, scenario planning etc.
• Expert knowledge of the Alberta economy and factors, trends and issues affecting wealth creation, economic performance and strategy, and industry and business competitiveness.
• Ability to develop a network of strategic contacts with a wide range of government and industry stakeholders.
• Project management skills, and proven skills in working with both intra- and inter-departmental government staff on economic performance measures and trends, and business competitiveness and productivity measures. A project management certification is an asset.
• A solid understanding gained through extensive practical experience of government organization, decision making processes, budget, and a keen awareness and understanding of government directions.
• Highly developed verbal and writing communication skills and capable of adapting communications to the situation.

Minimum recruitment standards outline the minimum education and experience required for appointment to a job classification. Refer to https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-minimum-recruitment-standards

Notes

This is a permanent position and the hours of work are Monday to Friday – 8:15am - 4:30pm for a total of 36.25 hours.

The work location is 11th Floor, Commerce Place, 10155 - 102 Street, Edmonton, T5J 4G8.

A cover letter demonstrating your qualifications, experience and skills for this position is required and will be used as a screening tool.  

The final candidate for this position will undergo an academic check, reference checks and provide a suitable security screening.

Any costs associated with obtaining the required documents/checks as noted or interview travel expenses, will be the responsibility of the candidate. Out-of-province applicants can obtain the required documents/checks from the province they currently reside in.

Links and information on what the GoA has to offer to prospective employees.

•    Working for the Alberta Public Service - https://www.alberta.ca/advantages-working-for-alberta-public-service.aspx
•    Management Employees Pension Plan (MEPP) - https://www.mepp.ca
•    Alberta Public Service Benefit Information - https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-benefits
•    Professional learning and development - https://www.alberta.ca/professional-development-support-directive
•    Research Alberta Public Service Careers tool – https://researchapscareers.alberta.ca
•    Positive workplace culture and work-life balance
•    Opportunity to participate in flexible work arrangements such as working from home up to two days per week and modified work schedule agreement
•    Leadership and mentorship programs