Regional Advisor (Long-Term Expert) in Financial Integrity

Job Posting Organization:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organization established in 1944 with a mission to promote global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world. The IMF has a membership of 191 countries and operates in various regions, providing financial assistance, policy advice, and technical assistance to its member countries. The organization employs a diverse workforce of professionals, including economists, financial experts, and legal advisors, who work collaboratively to achieve its goals. The Legal Department (LEG) of the IMF plays a crucial role in supporting the Fund's mission by providing legal advice and guidance on financial integrity issues, among other responsibilities. LEG is dedicated to promoting and preserving global financial integrity, which is essential for the Fund to carry out its mandate effectively. The department is structured into divisions that focus on different aspects of legal and financial matters, ensuring that the Fund's operations align with international standards and best practices.

Job Overview:
The Regional Advisor, referred to as a Long-Term Expert (LTX), will be responsible for supporting the Legal Department's financial integrity work, particularly in the areas of anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT). This position is critical for enhancing the capacity development (CD) of member countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The LTX will be based in Barbados and will be expected to travel frequently to various Fund member countries to provide advisory services and support. The role involves engaging with government officials, conducting assessments, and facilitating workshops to strengthen financial integrity frameworks in the region. The successful candidate will work closely with the General Counsel and Director of the Legal Department, as well as other divisions within LEG, to ensure that the Fund's objectives in financial integrity are met. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to global efforts in promoting financial integrity and enhancing the resilience of the international financial system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Regional Advisor include, but are not limited to:

• Providing, managing, and coordinating capacity development in financial integrity, including AML/CFT, to Fund member countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.
• Offering advisory services to member countries on financial integrity issues, conducting needs and risk assessments, and drafting AML/CFT frameworks and strategies.
• Participating in LEG missions, providing offsite advice, and managing pre-assessment research and post-mission work.
• Organizing and facilitating workshops and seminars for officials of IMF member countries on relevant topics, including those organized by Fund training facilities and other international organizations.
• Preparing required documents for internal review and ensuring timely transmission of final documents to member country authorities.
• Compiling regular reports on ongoing activities and contributing to an annual report on AML/CFT capacity development activities.
• Liaising with Fund resident advisors and technical assistance centers on financial integrity-related issues.
• Coordinating with other capacity development providers working in member countries.
• Carrying out additional assignments as instructed by the Head or Deputy Head(s) of the Division. 1
• Observing the Code of Conduct and maintaining confidentiality regarding all official matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a relevant academic background, including an advanced degree in law, economics, finance, international relations, business administration, governance, or a related field. A minimum of six years of relevant professional experience is required, with at least four years of direct experience in financial integrity issues. Candidates should have experience working at the national or international level, preferably within a national government, international organization, or specialized domestic entity such as a financial intelligence unit or AML/CFT supervisor. Familiarity with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) or a FATF-style regional body is also advantageous. A deep understanding of financial integrity and AML/CFT issues at an international level is essential, along with knowledge of Fund policies related to surveillance, conditionality, and capacity development. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and time management skills, sound judgment, and the ability to liaise diplomatically with senior government officials.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree in law, economics, finance, international relations, business administration, governance, or a related field. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complex legal and financial frameworks associated with financial integrity and AML/CFT issues. Candidates with additional certifications or training in financial integrity, compliance, or related areas will be viewed favorably, as they demonstrate a commitment to professional development in this field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of six years of relevant professional experience, with at least four years of direct experience in financial integrity issues. This experience should include work at the national or international level, ideally within a national government, international organization, or specialized domestic entity such as a financial intelligence unit or AML/CFT supervisor. Experience with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) or a FATF-style regional body is also beneficial. The candidate's experience should reflect a deep understanding of financial integrity and AML/CFT issues, as well as familiarity with the operational and regulatory frameworks that govern these areas.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. The ability to speak Spanish is essential, as the role involves frequent interaction with officials in Latin America and the Caribbean. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This vacancy is for a 1-year contractual appointment, with the possibility of extensions based on factors such as funding availability, continued demand, and satisfactory performance. The position is expected to be filled at a lower level within the full grade band advertised. Candidates should be prepared to reside in Barbados and travel frequently to countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Daily interaction with colleagues in Washington D.C. and occasional travel to IMF headquarters in D.C. will also be required. All applicants must include a Statement of Interest as an attachment to their application, which may be used in the screening process.