Counsellor

Job Posting Organization:
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes the protection of intellectual property worldwide through cooperation among states and in collaboration with international organizations. Established in 1967, WIPO has a mission to foster creativity and innovation by ensuring that the rights of creators and inventors are protected. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 1,000 employees. WIPO's Japan Office (WJO) plays a crucial role in promoting WIPO's global IP services and raising awareness of intellectual property in Japan.

Job Overview:
The Counsellor position at the WIPO Japan Office involves assisting the Director in the development and implementation of the Program of Work and Budget. The role is pivotal in promoting WIPO's mandate and enhancing the quality, accessibility, and timeliness of WIPO services related to the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights (IPRs). The incumbent will engage with various stakeholders, including government authorities and IP institutions, to support the advancement of WIPO's strategic objectives. This position requires a proactive approach to outreach and communication, ensuring that WIPO's services are effectively promoted and utilized in Japan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Counsellor will perform several key duties, including:

• Collaborating closely with the Director to develop WJO's program of work and workplan, overseeing its implementation and monitoring to enhance the delivery of WIPO's services in Japan.
• Establishing and maintaining strategic partnerships with IP stakeholders, government authorities, and intergovernmental organizations to promote WIPO services and provide IP policy advice.
• Leading outreach and communication activities related to WIPO's services, including organizing meetings for IP stakeholders in Japan and the region.
• Assisting the Director in managing WJO’s administrative and financial responsibilities, including personnel management and performance evaluation.
• Representing WJO at national and international meetings on IP matters and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in management, business administration, international relations, law, science, economics, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have excellent knowledge of written and spoken Japanese and English, with the ability to work in other official UN languages being desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as management, business administration, international relations, law, science, or economics. Specialization in intellectual property is considered a desirable qualification, enhancing the candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least seven years of related professional experience in fields such as patents, trademarks, industrial designs, and copyright, with international experience being essential. Candidates with at least five years of experience working with the public administration of IP in Japan will have a competitive advantage. Familiarity with WIPO services and experience in international IP systems like PCT, Madrid, and the Hague are also important.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken Japanese and English is mandatory for this position. Candidates who can work in additional official UN languages will be viewed favorably, as this enhances communication and collaboration within the international context of WIPO's operations.

Additional Notes:
This is a limited-term fixed-term position with an initial appointment of two years, which may be renewable based on satisfactory performance and other applicable conditions. The selected candidate's appointment will be subject to a maximum term of five years in this role, after which they may apply for other positions within WIPO. The annual salary for this position is 12,664,000 Yen (Total Net), and salaries and allowances are paid in local currency. WIPO encourages applications from qualified women and nationals of unrepresented Member States, and the organization reserves the right to appoint at a lower grade if necessary. Candidates should be aware that any misrepresentation during the application process may lead to disqualification or termination of employment.