WIPO Classifications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that was established in 196

• Its mission is to promote the protection of intellectual property (IP) worldwide through cooperation among states and in collaboration with international organizations. WIPO has a diverse workforce of over 1,000 employees and operates in more than 190 countries, making it a key player in the global IP landscape. The organization focuses on developing a balanced and accessible international IP system that fosters innovation and creativity for the benefit of all.

Job Overview:
The WIPO Classifications Officer will be an integral part of the Mark and Design Classifications Section within the International Classifications and Standards Division. This role is pivotal in the formulation and implementation of WIPO's technical programs concerning the Nice, Vienna, and Locarno Classifications. The officer will provide secretariat services to the relevant Committees of Experts and Working Groups, ensuring that the classifications are maintained and updated effectively. The position requires collaboration with various internal units and external stakeholders, including IP offices of Member States, to facilitate efficient data flow and enhance the usability of classification systems. The incumbent will also be responsible for organizing discussions on online systems related to the classifications and ensuring that the content aligns with the decisions made by the Committees of Experts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties, including representing WIPO in meetings of the Committees of Experts and their Working Groups, preparing proposals and documentation for consideration, and drafting reports. They will organize discussions on online systems and e-forums related to the classifications, examine input from work units, and provide training and authoritative advice to trademark and design examiners. The officer will verify the content of new versions of the classifications, ensure compliance with decisions made by the Committees, and coordinate the maintenance of the Section's website. Additionally, they will liaise with IT experts to enhance operational effectiveness and support the preparation of the Section’s workplan and performance reports. The role also involves participating in internal and external activities related to the classification systems and representing WIPO at various meetings and seminars.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in law, economics, international relations, science, engineering, business, commerce, linguistics, or a related field. Additionally, studies related to intellectual property are essential. The role requires excellent knowledge of at least one of the relevant classifications (Nice, Vienna, Locarno) and good knowledge of the other two. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of the procedures and functioning of the Committees of Experts and Working Groups of the relevant Unions, along with good time management, communication, and analytical skills. Proficiency in digital tools and a commitment to continuous learning are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first-level university degree in a relevant field such as law, economics, or international relations. Furthermore, candidates should have undertaken studies or training related to intellectual property, which is crucial for understanding the complexities of trademark and industrial design classifications.

Experience:
The position requires at least six years of professional experience in the use of Trademark or Industrial Design classification systems. This experience should include examining trademark or design classifications and establishing the classification of goods and services in applications. Desirable experience includes coordinating meetings at the international level, which would enhance the candidate's ability to manage discussions and collaborations effectively.

Languages:
The essential language requirement for this position is excellent knowledge of written and spoken English. Additionally, knowledge of other official UN languages, particularly French, is desirable and would be beneficial in a multilingual work environment.

Additional Notes:
This is a limited-term fixed-term post with an initial appointment of two years, which may be renewable subject to satisfactory performance. The selected candidate's appointment will be subject to an overall term of five years in this position, with normally no possibility of renewal beyond that term. The position offers a competitive salary, with a total annual salary of approximately $118,175, which includes a net annual salary and a post adjustment. Salaries and allowances are paid in Swiss francs at the official rate of exchange of the United Nations. Applications from qualified women and nationals from unrepresented Member States are encouraged. The organization reserves the right to appoint at a grade lower than that advertised, and candidates should be aware that any misrepresentation during the application process may lead to disqualification.