Chief Translator

Job Posting Organization:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organization established in 1944 with the mission to promote global economic stability and growth. The IMF has a diverse workforce of approximately 2,700 employees from over 150 countries, working to foster international monetary cooperation, facilitate balanced trade, and provide resources to member countries in need. The organization operates in multiple countries around the world, providing financial assistance and policy advice to its member nations.

Job Overview:
The Chief Translator position within the Corporate Services and Facilities Department (CSF) at the IMF is a pivotal role that involves overseeing the Language Services Division (CSFLS). The Chief Translator reports directly to the Chief of the Language Services Division and acts as the Deputy Division Chief, playing a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction and management of the division. This position requires active participation in the administration of the division, ensuring that translation strategies align with the IMF's needs. The Chief Translator is responsible for modernizing translation services, integrating AI and emerging language technologies, and ensuring that the division meets the evolving multilingual communication needs of the IMF. The role also includes leading the Translation Coordination Center (TCC) and ensuring effective service delivery across multiple languages, including English and other core languages such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish, as well as approximately 40 additional languages as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief Translator will lead the planning, coordination, and continuous improvement of the IMF’s translation, editorial, terminology, quality assurance, and translation project management activities. They will serve as the principal advisor to the Division Chief on all translation-related matters and act as Deputy Division Chief, providing leadership and operational continuity in the Division Chief's absence. The Chief Translator will supervise and develop the Translation Section Chiefs, oversee the Translation Coordination Center (TCC), and ensure effective workforce planning, performance management, and resource allocation. They will contribute to the development and implementation of the Division's strategic vision and policies while ensuring timely delivery of high-quality multilingual products. The role involves promoting the responsible adoption of language technologies and leading the modernization agenda, advising on translation policies, and representing the Division in various committees and initiatives. Additionally, the Chief Translator may perform translation, revision, review, or editorial work as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in translation, interpretation, economics, law, or a closely related field, along with a minimum of eleven (11) years of progressively responsible professional experience in a complex, multinational organization. Alternatively, a university degree with seventeen (17) years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Advanced proficiency in one or more of the languages covered by the Division is required, with proficiency in additional languages being highly desirable. Candidates should have substantial experience in translating high-profile documents, familiarity with IMF's work, strong management and interpersonal skills, and the ability to manage a high-volume workload under tight deadlines. Knowledge of Fund policies and procedures, as well as experience in a technologically advanced environment, is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position typically includes an advanced university degree in translation, interpretation, economics, law, or a related field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of translation in a global economic context and for effectively managing translation services within the IMF.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience, typically at least eleven (11) years, in progressively responsible roles within a complex, multinational organization. This experience should include managing translation services, leading teams, and working with high-profile documents and publications. Proven ability to handle multiple tasks under pressure and to manage both in-house and contractual resources efficiently is essential.

Languages:
Advanced written and spoken proficiency in one or more of the languages supported by the Division is mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages is considered highly desirable, as it enhances the ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment and supports the diverse needs of the IMF.

Additional Notes:
The selected candidate will maintain their open-ended status if they are a regular staff member. If the candidate is a contractual employee, they will be offered a Term staff appointment. The position is a managerial vacancy requiring Review Committee/Senior Review Committee approval. This vacancy will be filled by a 3-year Term appointment in accordance with the Fund’s employment rules. The IMF is committed to non-discrimination in employment and welcomes requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities during the selection process.