Chief of the Trade Logistics Branch

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Position Title: Chief of the Trade Logistics Branch
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Trade Logistics Branch of the Division on Technology and Logistics at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. It operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing global trade and development issues.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the Trade Logistics Branch is responsible for planning and implementing the substantive work programme of the Branch. This includes overseeing trade logistics activities, ensuring timely execution of programmed activities, and coordinating work within the Division and with other UN organizations. The Chief will lead the preparation of analytical reports, such as the Review of Maritime Transport, and report to intergovernmental bodies on budget and programme performance. The role requires maintaining high-quality standards for outputs, preparing the Branch's work programme, and managing technical cooperation programmes. The Chief will also cooperate with international organizations like the WTO and World Bank, oversee administrative tasks, recruit staff, and foster teamwork within the Branch.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plan and implement the substantive work programme of the Trade Logistics Branch.
• Oversee management of trade logistics activities and ensure timely execution.
• Coordinate work among different units and with other UN agencies.
• Prepare analytical reports for intergovernmental bodies.
• Ensure high-quality standards for outputs produced by the Branch.
• Prepare the work programme, determine priorities, and allocate resources.
• Manage the technical cooperation programme of the Branch.
• Cooperate with international organizations in trade and transport facilitation.
• Oversee administrative tasks including budget preparation and staff performance evaluations. 1
• Recruit staff while considering geographical balance. 1
• Foster teamwork and communication among staff. 1
• Organize meetings and seminars on substantive issues. 1
• Represent the Division at international, regional, or national meetings.

Required Qualifications:

• In-depth knowledge of development problems related to trade and trade logistics.
• Ability to provide direction and develop new approaches to challenges in trade logistics.
• Proven ability to produce high-quality economic analysis and reports.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Leadership skills to empower others and drive change.
• Ability to identify strategic issues and communicate organizational direction.
• Strong judgment and decision-making skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related area is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in trade logistics at the international level or a related field is required. At least eight years of experience in programme and project planning and implementation, including major multilateral technical cooperation projects, is desirable. Experience in leading and managing teams, as well as working in an international organization, is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another UN official language is desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position encourages applications from candidates of unrepresented or under-represented Member States in the UN Secretariat. The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Staff members must submit a financial disclosure statement and maintain high standards of integrity and professional ethics. The recruitment process is free of charge, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.