Individual Consultant - Technical Coordination Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNESCO, specifically the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) which operates under the auspices of UNESCO. UNESCO was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. The IOC was created in 1960 and focuses on ocean science and its applications. UNESCO has a global presence with offices in over 190 countries and territories, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to various missions including education, science, culture, and communication. The IOC's mission is to promote international cooperation in oceanographic research and to provide a framework for the sustainable management of ocean resources. The organization is committed to fostering partnerships and collaboration among member states to address ocean-related challenges and to advance the science of the oceans for sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The position of coordinator" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Technical Coordinator is crucial for the successful planning and execution of the 12th WESTPAC International Marine Science Conference (IMSC-12) and the 3rd UN Ocean Decade Regional Conference. The consultant will be responsible for providing technical and programmatic coordination for the conference and its associated activities. This includes developing the scientific program, coordinating with stakeholders, managing conference systems, and providing implementation support. The role requires a strong understanding of ocean science and policy, as well as the ability to ensure that the conference aligns with the priorities of the IOC/UNESCO and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, and practitioners, to promote knowledge exchange and foster partnerships. The position is expected to contribute significantly to the scientific quality and inclusivity of the conference, ensuring that diverse voices are represented and that the outcomes are impactful for regional ocean governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Coordinator will undertake a variety of duties and responsibilities, including: A. Technical Coordination and Overall Planning: Supporting the overall technical coordination, planning, and implementation of the IMSC and associated events. This involves contributing to the development of the conference framework, technical agenda, and program structure, ensuring scientific coherence and strategic alignment with regional priorities. The coordinator will also facilitate communication among organizers, partners, and host country counterparts, monitor progress, and identify operational risks. B. Scientific Programme Development and Technical Review: Coordinating the preparation and dissemination of calls for scientific session proposals and supporting the technical review and selection processes. The coordinator will liaise with conveners and speakers to ensure coherence and quality in the scientific program. C. Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships: Engaging with Member States, UN agencies, and other stakeholders to facilitate collaboration and partnership development. This includes promoting inclusivity and equitable representation in conference participation. D. Communications, Outreach, and Knowledge Management: Supporting the development of communication materials and enhancing the visibility of the conference. This involves documenting outcomes and coordinating with communication teams. E. Conference Delivery and Follow-up: Providing on-site/virtual technical coordination during the conference and ensuring smooth implementation of sessions and workshops. The coordinator will also support the preparation of conference reports and follow-up actions.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires several qualifications, including an advanced university degree in international cooperation, marine science, ocean policy, environmental management, or related fields. Candidates should have at least 5–7 years of relevant experience in international project development and coordination, particularly in conference or event program development and implementation. Proven experience working with international organizations, especially within the UN system, is essential. A strong understanding of ocean issues in the Western Pacific and the UN Ocean Decade is also required. Candidates should possess excellent coordination, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills, along with strong drafting and reporting abilities in English.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree in fields such as international cooperation, marine science, ocean policy, environmental management, or related disciplines. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of ocean science and policy, as well as for effectively coordinating international conferences and programs.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5–7 years of relevant experience in international project development and coordination, particularly in the context of ocean-related international programs. Experience in developing and running international conference programs is highly desirable, as is prior experience with UN agencies or international organizations. The ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines with a high level of accuracy is essential.

Languages:
The position requires an excellent command of written and spoken English. Knowledge of an additional UN language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and participants.

Additional Notes:
The contract is a consultant position at Level 2 - Middle, with a duration of 11 months. The position is open to external candidates and is based in Bangkok, Thailand. The consultant will be required to travel for missions related to the projects and implementation during the assignment. Travel expenses will be covered according to UNESCO rules and regulations, and the consultant is responsible for obtaining security clearance prior to missions. The consultant will deliver monthly progress reports and is expected to provide a detailed conference workplan, communication materials, and a final conference report.