Programme Management Officer (Customs)

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) Programme in the Division on Technology and Logistics (DTL) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. It operates globally, with a mission to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization employs a diverse workforce and aims to foster inclusive economic growth and sustainable development across its member states.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Officer (Customs) plays a crucial role in supporting the National Customs Services (NCS) and National Project Teams (NPT) in the Americas Region. This position involves providing substantive assistance and functional support in the development, implementation, and evaluation of various UNCTAD/ASYCUDA and Single Window projects. The officer will monitor and analyze project development, review documents, identify issues, and propose corrective actions. The role requires collaboration with clients to facilitate workshops and develop action plans for managing changes. Additionally, the officer will analyze customs-related legislation and procedures, assist in policy development, and provide advice on functional aspects of ASYCUDA extensions. The position also involves conducting outreach activities, training workshops, and field missions, as well as coordinating budget-related activities and preparing various reports and documents.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Management Officer (Customs) include:

• Participating in the development, implementation, and evaluation of UNCTAD/ASYCUDA and Single Window projects.
• Monitoring and analyzing programme/project development and implementation.
• Reviewing relevant documents and reports, identifying problems, and proposing corrective actions.
• Liaising with relevant parties and tracking follow-up actions.
• Performing consulting assignments and facilitating workshops.
• Analyzing customs-related legislation and procedures for automation and Single Window implementation.
• Researching and presenting information from diverse sources.
• Assisting in policy development and preparing evaluations or research studies.
• Supporting NCSs in preparing functional specifications for ASYCUDA extensions. 1
• Conducting surveys, designing data collection tools, and interpreting responses. 1
• Preparing written outputs such as background papers and reports. 1
• Providing support to meetings and conferences, including document preparation. 1
• Conducting outreach activities and training workshops. 1
• Participating in field missions and drafting mission summaries. 1
• Coordinating budget and funding activities and preparing related documents.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, management, economics, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of customs procedures and digitalization in the context of international trade.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as business administration, management, or economics. A first-level university degree may be considered if accompanied by sufficient relevant experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of customs management and trade facilitation.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, administration, or a related area is required. This experience should include a focus on the digitalization of customs procedures. Desirable experience includes implementing electronic single windows for trade and organizing functional training courses within governmental organizations. Experience in an international environment, particularly within the United Nations system, is also advantageous.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Additionally, proficiency in either French, Russian, Spanish, Chinese (Mandarin), or Arabic is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for four months. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to candidates based at the duty station, and only internal candidates may apply. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, and the position is non-smoking. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.