Programme Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), specifically in the Division on International Trade and Commodities (DITC). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is a permanent intergovernmental body that aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization has a mission to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve sustainable development through trade, investment, and technology. UNCTAD operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to addressing global economic challenges.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of various programs and operations related to international trade and commodities. This position requires collaboration with other program management staff and involves ensuring that the objectives set by the Division's Director are met. The officer will assist in formulating and implementing mandated programs, analyze project development, and provide substantive inputs to the Director's overall program of work. The role also includes conducting research, coordinating policy development, and generating survey initiatives to gather data and insights relevant to international trade and commodities. Additionally, the officer will be responsible for organizing outreach activities, conducting training workshops, and coordinating communication strategies related to the division's work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Management Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including assisting the Director in formulating and implementing programs, analyzing project development, and identifying issues that require corrective actions. The officer will liaise with relevant parties to ensure smooth coordination within the division and with UNCTAD's administration. Monitoring economic developments in international trade and commodities is essential, as is providing substantive inputs to the Director's work. The officer will also perform consulting assignments, facilitate workshops, and develop action plans for clients. Responsibilities include coordinating policy development, generating survey initiatives, organizing written outputs, and providing backstopping for meetings and conferences. The officer will lead field missions, contribute to the division's medium-term plan, and support resource mobilization efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of international trade, commodities, and development theories and concepts. They should demonstrate the ability to identify and analyze issues, conduct independent research, and successfully raise extrabudgetary funds. The role requires excellent judgment, planning, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to manage conflicting priorities effectively. Candidates should also show a commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, management, law, economics, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of international trade and commodities.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in project or program management, administration, or a related area at the United Nations is required. Of these, at least five years should be in substantive issues related to trade and development. Experience in developing and implementing communications strategies is desirable, as is experience in a front office setting and in fundraising and resource mobilization. Technical cooperation experience on issues related to international trade and development is also beneficial.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Additionally, proficiency in either French, Russian, Chinese (Mandarin), Spanish, or Arabic is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in these languages. This multilingual requirement reflects the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat and the need for effective communication in a diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position available until June 30, 2026, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and performance. The position is subject to specific eligibility criteria, including limitations for candidates based at the duty station and internal candidates. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of recruiting staff on a wide geographical basis and maintains a non-smoking environment. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are encouraged to follow all application instructions carefully.