Director, Air Transport Bureau (ATB)

Director, Air Transport Bureau (ATB)

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

May 12, 2026July 7, 2026MontrealCanada
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 194
  • Its mission is to promote the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation throughout the world. ICAO has 193 member states and works with various stakeholders to develop global standards and policies for aviation safety, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, efficiency, and environmental protection. The organization operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to enhancing the safety and sustainability of air transport.

Job Overview:
The Director of the Air Transport Bureau (ATB) is responsible for leading and managing the Bureau's work programs and activities, which align with ICAO's strategic goals. This position requires a visionary leader who can formulate strategies, policies, and business plans while overseeing the implementation of air transport programs. The Director will provide expert assistance to various ICAO governing bodies and committees, ensuring that air transport policies are developed and implemented effectively. The role also involves fostering innovative initiatives and managing change within the Bureau to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness. The Director will be expected to engage with international stakeholders, including governments and aviation organizations, to promote collaboration and address global air transport challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead, direct, and manage the work and staff of the Air Transport Bureau (ATB), ensuring high-quality standards in work programs and activities.
  • Provide effective direction and supervision to a diverse team, managing performance and promoting a respectful working environment.
  • Plan, direct, and report on the Bureau's annual and triennial budget implementation.
  • Oversee the recruitment and development of staff, ensuring geographical and gender balance.
  • Participate in Senior Management Board meetings and implement decisions taken by the Secretary General.
  • Direct the implementation of performance-based management and manage human and financial resources effectively.
  • Develop ATB's overall strategies and lead the substantive work program of the Business Plan.
  • Oversee the implementation of ICAO’s Air Transport Programmes, including aviation security and sustainability initiatives.
  • Provide authoritative policy advice to the Secretary General and contribute to the development of overall strategies and policies. 1
  • Represent ICAO at international meetings and liaise with government officials on air transport matters. 1
  • Direct and coordinate all Secretariat work in support of the ICAO Air Transport Committee and its subordinate bodies. 1
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
  • An advanced-level university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in an aviation-related field, management, administration, economics, law, or a related discipline.
  • Over 15 years of progressively responsible professional experience in air transport or related areas, reaching an executive level.
  • At least five years of senior managerial experience overseeing civil aviation programs in public or private sectors.
  • Proven leadership ability to manage large-scale aviation programs in a multicultural environment.
  • Experience in strategic business planning and leading change management initiatives.
  • Familiarity with corporate performance management practices is desirable.
  • Experience in public speaking and media engagement is also desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced-level university degree (Master’s degree or academic equivalent) in an aviation-related field, scientific or technical/engineering discipline, management, administration, economics, law, or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of air transport and the regulatory environment in which ICAO operates.

Experience:
Candidates should have over 15 years of progressively responsible professional experience, including at least five years at a senior managerial level. Experience in planning, managing, and coordinating air transport activities at an international level is crucial. Candidates should also have a proven track record of high-level negotiations with government authorities and experience in leading change management initiatives within a multicultural environment.

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, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese (Mandarin), or Russian is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in these languages.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term non-career appointment for a period of four years, with the first year being probationary for external candidates. The maximum period for which a staff member at the D-2 level can serve is eight years. The annual salary for this position is US $177,318, which includes a net base salary of US $130,477 and a post adjustment of US $46,84
  • ICAO offers a comprehensive benefits package, including dependency allowances, rental subsidies, travel and relocation assistance, education grants for children, and 30 working days of vacation per year. The organization promotes a positive workplace culture and encourages inclusivity and diversity within its workforce.
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