Executive Director

Job Posting Organization:
The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) is an organization that operates under the auspices of UNESCO, dedicated to the advancement of science in developing countries. Established to promote international cooperation in natural, basic, and social sciences, TWAS aims to support scientific excellence and foster sustainable development. The organization focuses on recognizing and promoting scientific research in the South, addressing the needs of young scientists, and facilitating collaboration between scientists and institutions across different regions. TWAS plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between research and policy, ensuring that scientific advancements contribute to societal progress and development.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director of TWAS is tasked with leading the Academy in its mission to promote scientific excellence for sustainable development in the South. This position requires strategic guidance to enhance scientific research in developing countries and to encourage cooperation between North and South as well as South-South partnerships. The Executive Director will oversee the implementation of TWAS's programs, ensuring alignment with UNESCO's policies and the broader goals of the Agenda 203

• This role involves providing intellectual and operational leadership, managing international scientific cooperation programs, and fostering innovative approaches to scientific collaboration. The Executive Director will also be responsible for resource mobilization and will act as the secretary to the TWAS Steering Committee and Council, ensuring effective governance and programmatic direction.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Executive Director will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Leading and managing the TWAS staff to implement all program activities effectively.
• Preparing annual programs, reports, action plans, and budget projections for submission to UNESCO governing bodies and donors.
• Developing synergies with UNESCO programs in sciences and exploring opportunities for joint initiatives.
• Promoting South-South cooperation in sciences and establishing new scientific networks with international organizations.
• Providing strategic leadership for resource mobilization efforts.
• Acting as secretary to the TWAS Steering Committee and Council meetings, ensuring proper documentation and follow-up on decisions made.
• Engaging with diverse stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and academic institutions, to foster collaboration and support for TWAS initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in a relevant scientific discipline. Additionally, they should have a minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible experience in scientific research and administration, including roles at regional or international levels. Demonstrated leadership experience in a scientific environment is essential, along with expertise in human resources and financial management. Successful fundraising experience from various sectors, including government and private entities, is also required. Familiarity with international relations, diplomacy, and multilateral cooperation is crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
A PhD in a discipline related to the field of Sciences is mandatory for this position. Other degrees or short- to medium-term training in relevant disciplines may be considered as desirable qualifications, enhancing the candidate's profile for the role.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, specifically a minimum of 15 years in progressively responsible roles within scientific research and administration. Candidates should have a proven track record of leadership in scientific environments, with experience in managing human resources and finances. Experience in fundraising and international relations is also critical, as the Executive Director will need to navigate complex partnerships and funding landscapes.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UNESCO languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is desirable. Additionally, proficiency in Italian would be beneficial, given the location of the position in Trieste, Italy.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 2 years, with the possibility of renewal. The role is open to both internal and external candidates, and the application process includes an online submission of complete and accurate information by the specified deadline. The selection process may involve various assessment methods, including interviews and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups, including individuals from minority and indigenous backgrounds, as well as persons with disabilities. The organization offers a competitive salary, starting at approximately 151,097 USD annually, along with benefits such as annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan.