Chief, Climate Mobility Innovation Lab Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally while working towards harnessing the full potential of migration. IOM operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on various aspects of migration, including climate change and disaster risk reduction, and aims to support states in achieving safe, orderly, and regular international migration.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the Climate Mobility Innovation Lab Unit will play a pivotal role in developing and articulating IOM's strategy and operational plans for leveraging transformative change in the context of climate adaptation and just transition. This position involves leading the establishment of the Climate Mobility Innovation Lab (CMIL) in Geneva and supervising regional labs focused on developing bankable climate solutions. The successful candidate will be responsible for fostering high-level relationships with key stakeholders, including UN agencies, academia, and the private sector, to promote consensus and secure funding for climate mobility initiatives. The role requires a strategic thinker who can drive collaboration across IOM divisions and ensure the integration of innovative climate solutions into IOM's programs. The Chief will also represent IOM at global levels, advising on policy development and engaging in discussions that influence climate mobility policies based on scientific evidence.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief will be responsible for stimulating and leading the establishment of the CMIL, developing high-level relationships with key stakeholders, representing IOM in regional Climate Mobility Innovation Lab committees, advising on the CMIL's coordination role, and connecting climate mobility and innovation programs. The role includes directing and supervising regional CMIL leads, driving capacity building on Climate Action and human mobility, developing regional and country policies, supporting global level policy development, overseeing collaboration across IOM divisions, and establishing strategic partnerships for fundraising. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Disaster Risk Reduction, Climate Change, Engineering, Emergency Management, Social Sciences, Environment, International Relations, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with ten years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a University degree in the aforementioned fields with twelve years of relevant experience is acceptable. Candidates should demonstrate leadership experience in climate change, migration, and displacement, as well as experience in policy development and fundraising for complex programs.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field is required, with a focus on areas such as Disaster Risk Reduction, Climate Change, or International Relations. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree must have additional years of relevant experience to qualify for the position. Accreditation from recognized institutions listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database is necessary.

Experience:
At least ten years of senior management and leadership experience in both humanitarian and development fields with international organizations is required. Candidates should have substantial experience working in developing countries and a proven track record in climate change, knowledge management, and innovation. Experience within the UN system, particularly in leadership or coordination roles, is highly advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both oral and written. Working knowledge of Arabic, French, Spanish, or another official UN language (such as Chinese or Russian) is considered an advantage. Proficiency in required languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for one year with the possibility of extension. It is classified at the P5 grade level and is a professional recruitment type. The closing date for applications is set for 22 January 2026, and candidates are advised that the selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations. Internationally recruited professional staff are required to be mobile, and any offer made is subject to funding confirmation. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations, including discrimination and harassment. IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its e-Recruitment system.