Chief of the Trading System, Services and Creative Economy Branch

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Division on International Trade and Commodities (DITC) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), which is based in Geneva, Switzerland. UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is dedicated to promoting the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, and operates in over 190 countries. UNCTAD aims to support developing nations in their efforts to achieve economic growth and sustainable development through various programs and initiatives. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes gender equality.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the Trading System, Services and Creative Economy Branch (TSCB) is responsible for formulating and implementing the substantive work program of the Branch. This includes overseeing the management of activities related to the international trading system and multilateral and regional trade negotiations that involve developing countries. The Chief ensures that all programmed activities are executed in a timely manner and coordinates work across different areas within the Branch, UNCTAD, and other UN organizations. The role requires maintaining effective relations with Member States to identify their specific needs in trade negotiations and providing policy and legal advice accordingly. The Chief also oversees the provision of strategic advice and technical guidance to intergovernmental bodies, ensuring that outputs produced by the Branch meet high-quality standards and comply with relevant mandates. The position demands strong leadership skills to manage and develop staff, foster teamwork, and represent the Division at various international meetings.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will lead and supervise the work program of TSCB, coordinating efforts among different work units and UN agencies. Responsibilities include preparing reports for intergovernmental bodies, maintaining relations with Member States, overseeing the provision of strategic advice, ensuring high-quality outputs, assisting in work program preparation, managing programmatic and administrative tasks, recruiting staff, and fostering teamwork. The Chief will also organize meetings and seminars, participate in discussions at various levels, and represent the Division in international forums. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of systemic, economic, and legal issues in international trade, particularly as they relate to developing countries. Strong analytical capabilities and familiarity with current issues at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and regional integration processes are essential. The ability to engage effectively with Member States, build consensus, and demonstrate expertise in training design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and delivery is required. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of UN rules and regulations, and exhibit professionalism, accountability, creativity, leadership, and sound judgment in decision-making.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in economics, public administration, law, social sciences, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor’s) in the specified fields with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in international economics and development or a related field is required. Candidates should have experience managing financial and human resources for significant programs, with at least eight years of experience in international trade being desirable. Experience in multilateral negotiations, leading research teams, capacity building, technical assistance programs, fundraising, and developing training courses for public officials in trade policy is also desirable.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, while knowledge of French, Arabic, Spanish, Russian, or Chinese (Mandarin) is desirable. The required proficiency levels for these languages are specified according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from underrepresented Member States. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The position may require staff to submit a financial disclosure statement and fulfill lateral move requirements. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.