Customs Administration Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a global organization established to promote international monetary cooperation, facilitate balanced growth of international trade, and provide resources to member countries in need. The IMF was founded in 1944 and has grown to include 190 member countries. Its mission is to ensure the stability of the international monetary system—the system of exchange rates and international payments that enables countries to transact with each other. The organization employs over 2,700 staff members from various countries, reflecting a diverse range of cultures and educational backgrounds. The IMF operates in multiple regions around the world, providing financial assistance, policy advice, and technical assistance to its member countries.

Job Overview:
The Customs Administration Advisor position within the Fiscal Affairs Department (FAD) of the IMF is a critical role aimed at enhancing customs administration in several African countries. The advisor will be stationed at Regional Capacity Development Centers (RCDCs) in Tanzania, Gabon, and Ghana, and will be responsible for assisting member countries in implementing customs reforms. This role requires a deep understanding of customs administration and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including national authorities and development partners. The advisor will engage in capacity development activities, provide strategic guidance, and ensure that customs reforms align with the IMF's Results Based Management principles. The position is expected to last for two years, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability, allowing for a potential tenure of up to four years.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Customs Administration Advisor will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Assisting member countries in implementing customs administration reform measures based on strategies developed in collaboration with the IMF's FAD.
• Supporting the RCDC director and steering committee in developing and monitoring the work plan of the center, ensuring alignment with IMF Results Based Management principles.
• Providing direct capacity development advice and guidance to member countries, including data gathering on key customs metrics to support revenue administration.
• Supporting short-term customs administration experts in delivering capacity development initiatives.
• Developing, managing, and delivering regional workshops and seminars to enhance customs practices.
• Consulting with customs authorities to assess their capacity development needs.
• Assisting in data collection for the International Customs Administration Survey (ICAS).
• Coordinating with other development partners on customs and trade issues to ensure a cohesive approach to capacity development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high level of knowledge in several key areas, including the legislative and regulatory environment for customs administrations, strategic management systems, international best practices in customs administration, and effective project management. Extensive practical experience in customs operations is essential, with a minimum of five years in a senior position within a revenue/customs administration. Preference will be given to those with experience in customs reform programs, capacity development, and knowledge of regional customs issues, particularly in fragile or conflict-affected areas. Previous experience in capacity building within the tax or customs administration sector is advantageous.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in a relevant field is required, along with at least four years of professional experience in revenue/customs administration or an international organization focused on revenue policy and administrative matters. Alternatively, candidates with a university degree and at least ten years of relevant professional experience will be considered. Preference will be given to candidates with at least eight years of professional experience in the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of experience in a senior role within a revenue/customs administration. This experience should include managing customs operations, participating in customs reform initiatives, and overseeing capacity development efforts. A strong understanding of the challenges faced by customs administrations in various contexts, particularly in regions with fragile or conflict situations, is essential. Previous involvement in capacity building activities, such as training courses and workshops, is also beneficial.

Languages:
Full proficiency in English is mandatory for all positions. For the position in Gabon, full proficiency in French and a working knowledge of English are required. Strong oral and written communication skills are essential, particularly in technical report writing and delivering effective seminars and training events.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves extensive travel within the respective regions. The contract duration is initially set for two years, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. The IMF is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from individuals of various backgrounds. Successful applicants who are not selected for this position may be eligible for short-term assignments as part of the FAD panel of tax administration experts. The anticipated start dates for the positions are May 1, 2026, for Tanzania and Ghana, and July 1, 2026, for Gabon.