Export Control Compliance Lead

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research institution established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. It employs physicists and engineers who utilize the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN's mission is to advance knowledge and technology through groundbreaking research, and it operates in multiple countries, fostering collaboration among scientists and researchers globally. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce is essential for its success.

Job Overview:
The Export Control Compliance Lead will play a pivotal role in establishing and leading CERN's Export Control Compliance Office. This position is crucial for ensuring that CERN's scientific mission, which relies on the exchange of knowledge and technologies across borders, adheres to export-control requirements. The successful candidate will develop governance frameworks, policies, and processes to embed a risk-based approach to export-control compliance throughout the organization. This role involves conducting classifications, screenings, due diligence reviews, compliance assessments, and export-control evaluations, while providing expert advice to CERN Management on regulatory risks. The Export Control Compliance Lead will work closely with various stakeholders, including legal and technical experts, to ensure effective implementation of export-control requirements, thereby shaping a new compliance function at the intersection of science, advanced technology, and international regulation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Export Control Compliance Lead will be responsible for establishing and leading CERN's Export Control Compliance Office. Key duties include developing and implementing governance frameworks, policies, processes, guidance, tools, and training to support a consistent and risk-based approach to export-control compliance. The Lead will act as the central focal point for export-control compliance matters, advising personnel, promoting awareness, conducting classifications, screenings, and compliance assessments. They will support the operational implementation of export-control requirements, manage export authorizations, and serve as the principal adviser to the Export Control Compliance Committee. Additionally, the Lead will maintain authoritative records of compliance assessments and monitor the effectiveness of CERN's compliance arrangements, identifying emerging risks and providing recommendations for improvement. Other tasks may include liaising with national authorities and external organizations on export-control matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or PhD in International Relations, Engineering, Law, Compliance, Economics, Business, or a related field. A recognized qualification or certification in export control or compliance is advantageous. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in export controls within regulated sectors such as aerospace, defense, manufacturing, energy, research, or higher education. Strong knowledge of export-control and dual-use regulatory frameworks, particularly familiarity with U.S., EU, Swiss, and/or UK export-control regimes, is preferred. Experience in establishing compliance programs and conducting compliance assessments is essential, along with strong interpersonal and coordination skills to work effectively across various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or PhD in a relevant field such as International Relations, Engineering, Law, Compliance, Economics, Business, or a related discipline is required. Additional qualifications in export control or compliance are beneficial and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience working in export controls within regulated sectors. This includes demonstrated experience in establishing and implementing compliance programs, conducting compliance assessments, and managing export licensing processes. The ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and provide clear, evidence-based recommendations is crucial for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the other language. Proficiency in both languages will be considered an asset, enhancing communication within the diverse CERN community.

Additional Notes:
This position is a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of extension up to 8 years and eligibility for an indefinite contract tenure. The role requires full-time onsite work, with a standard working hours of 40 hours per week. The job grade is classified as 6-7, and the reference for this position is OSI-ICS-2026-212-LD. CERN offers a competitive salary that is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.