Job Description

The Competition Commission seeks to appoint a dynamic, hard-working and committed individual
(female candidates to receive preference) to fill a position of Principal Economist in the Economic Research Bureau Division. The individual will lead economic research in line with the Commissionxe2x80x99s mandate to address anti-competitive conduct, and also play a key role in framing the Commissionxe2x80x99s work on market inquiries, impact assessments, and critical economic regulation policy questions. The individual will lead teams in assisting the core divisions of the Commission in the investigation of complex cartel, conduct and merger cases. The individual is also expected to give expert evidence at the Tribunal on investigation cases that are referred for prosecution or prohibition.

A starting annual total cost to company package of R 1 542 230,43 (negotiable commensurate with experience)

Please note this position is available on a five-year fixed term contract.

Requirements

• Masters degree in Economics, with training and experience in Industrial Economics. PhD Economics being an advantage.
• 7-10 years experience in the competition field, including both research and casework experience.
• Experience in supervising other economists and taking a lead role on investigations or research.
• Strong analytical skills and experience in managing research and economic evidence for economic regulation are essential.
• Knowledge and understanding of the purpose and objectives of the Competition Act, the Competition Commission and the South African economy is highly recommended.

Competencies / Attributes

• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• The ability to work under pressure.
• An energetic, committed individual with strong attention to detail.
• Interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Over and above well-developed technical skills in your specialisation areas, the incumbent must demonstrate, inter alia: Must demonstrate fit with the Commissions Values (Communication, Ownership, Making a difference, Professionalism, Employee Welfare, Teamwork, Efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise, conduct and coordinate economic evidence gathering and assessment on investigation cases in cartels, market conduct and merger control.
• Reliably apply economic principles and methods to the facts of each individual case.
• Manage a team of around three economists.
• Provide leadership to research and case teams, including on economic principles, methodology and analysis.
• Identify and undertake research activities and priorities relevant to the development of competition law enforcement and priorities of the Commission.
• Contribute to the provision of the theoretical and intellectual platform for the effective implementation of the Competition Act and achievement of the mandate of the Commission
• Compile expert reports and provide expert evidence before the Competition Tribunal on investigation cases referred for adjudication.

We offer

• A competitive salary
• An opportunity for you to actively participate in reaching the objectives of building an efficient, functioning, free and fair economy for all South Africans.
• The opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the dynamic and growing field of competition law in South Africa
• Exposure to excellent local and international training opportunities in the field of competition economics and law
• Exposure to excellent training opportunities.

Employment Equity:

• Over and above operational requirements, our appointment will take into account the countryxe2x80x99s and organisational Employment Equity imperatives. Female candidates will receive preference.

Diversity and Inclusion:

• Persons with Disability are encouraged to apply.
• The Competition Commission is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Application Process:

• All international qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA accreditation certificate.
• Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo psychometric assessments.
• The successful candidate will be vetted for security purposes.
• The Competition Commission reserves the right not to fill this position.

If you meet all the criteria above and are looking for an exciting opportunity to make a difference to our economy, then look no further than the Competition Commission! We look forward to receiving your comprehensive CV.

The Competition Commission