(1029) Associate Economic Statistician-ESD

Brief description

The main purpose of this role is to compile accurate, high-quality economic statistics related to monetary and banking matters, ensuring they adhere to international guidelines such as the Monetary and Financial Statistics Manual and Compilation Guide.

Detailed description

The successful candidate will be responsible for the following key performance areas:

• Gather, compile and analyse statistics related to monetary and banking matters and share the findings with senior specialists.
• Collect, update and analyse statistics on deposits and loans extended by banks.
• Collect, update and analyse statistics on money-market interest rates, including rates on deposits and loans extended by banks.
• Manage and process data across all relevant economic indicators and disciplines related to monetary and banking statistics, maintaining a comprehensive and accurate database.
• Verify the accuracy of received and processed data, validate source data and frequently consult with data providers.
• Assist in various departmental projects.
• Consult with internal and external data providers.
• Provide statistical information to both internal and external parties, applying methodological standards to ensure adherence to international best practices.
• Stay updated on new research and statistical methodologies, considering their implications on your work.
• Analyse data and statistics using business intelligence tools to identify trends and present analytical findings in written reports, including graphs and tables.
• Assist with presentations, general administrative tasks and other ad hoc requirements of the division.

Job requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must be in possession of:

• an Honours degree in Economics, Statistics, Data Science or a related field, including some accounting background;
• two to five years’ experience in economic analysis, research or macroeconomics, microeconomics or financial economics;
• a proven history of conducting and delivering high-quality economic analyses;
• proficiency in using Microsoft Office products such as MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as the ability to use tools (functions and formulas) to organise, analyse and adjust data; and
• the ability to program in ‘R’ and/or Python will be an added advantage. 

Additional requirements include:

• a strong interest in statistics and economic analysis, with a passion for applying statistical principles to real-world economic data;
• knowledge of international statistical manuals and best practices such as the Monetary and Financial Statistics Manual and Compilation Guide;
• a basic understanding of the generic statistical business process model;
• knowledge of the SARB’s monetary policy implementation framework;
• excellent time management skills, capable of thriving in a deadline-driven environment while maintaining high-quality work;
• the ability to work both independently and within a team or project environment;
• strong report-writing skills and the ability to present complex statistical data and analyses clearly and concisely;
• an affinity for compiling statistics;
• initiative and problem-solving abilities;
• excellent communication and people skills;
• analytical skills; and
• keen attention to detail.

All candidates shortlisted for the position will undergo a basic writing exercise to assess relevant technical writing skills required for the job.

In line with the SARB’s commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups. People with disabilities are welcome to apply.

The SARB offers remuneration and benefits commensurate with the level of the position and in line with the market. The level at which the successful applicant will be appointed will depend on his/her competence and experience.

About SARB

 

Primary mandate of the SARB

 

Section 224 of the Constitution of South Africa states the mandate of the SARB as follows:

The primary object of the South African Reserve Bank is to protect the value of the currency in the interest of balanced and sustainable economic growth in the Republic.

The South African Reserve Bank, in support of its primary objective, must perform its functions independently and without fear, favour or prejudice.

 

WHAT WE DO

 

Monetary Policy

 

The Constitution gives the SARB the mandate to protect the value of the rand. We use interest rates to keep inflation low and steady.

 

Financial Stability

 

The SARB has a mandate to protect and enhance financial stability. We identify and mitigate systemic risks that might disrupt the financial system.

 

Prudential Regulation

 

The Prudential Authority regulates financial institutions and market infrastructures to promote and enhance their safety and soundness, and support financial stability.

 

Financial Markets

 

Open market operations are the main tool we use to implement monetary policy. We manage South Africa’s gold and foreign exchange reserves.

 

Financial Surveillance

 

The SARB is responsible for regulating cross-border transactions, preventing the abuse of the financial system and supporting the regulation of financial institutions.

 

Payments and Settlements

 

The SARB is responsible for ensuring the safety and soundness of the national payment system, which is the backbone of South Africa’s modern financial system.

 

Statistics

 

The SARB provides important economic and financial statistics that present an overview of the economic situation in South Africa.

 

Research

 

Research conducted by the SARB focuses on economics, financial stability, banking and emerging trends in finance. Our research supports policy decision-making.

Banknotes and Coin

 

The SARB has the sole right to make, issue and destroy banknotes and coin in South Africa.