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 (DTL) at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is dedicated to promoting the integration of developing countries into the global economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to fostering sustainable development and economic growth.

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 the management of 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 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. Additionally, the Chief will represent the Division at various meetings and provide substantive expertise on trade logistics issues.

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 of programmed activities.
• Coordinate work with different units within the Branch and other UN agencies.
• Prepare analytical reports for intergovernmental bodies, including the UNCTAD Conferences and Trade and Development Board.
• Ensure high-quality standards for all 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 planning and implementing trade and transport facilitation programmes.
• 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
• Participate in international, regional, or national meetings and provide expertise. 1
• Represent the Division at various meetings.

Required Qualifications:

• In-depth knowledge of development problems related to trade and trade logistics.
• Ability to provide direction and develop new approaches to address 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, with the ability to analyze complex situations and propose solutions.

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 experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in trade logistics or a related field at the international level 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 for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is desirable, which may enhance communication and collaboration in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position available for a period of six months, starting in January 202

• Extensions may be possible based on the continuation of need, availability of the post, and satisfactory performance. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its staff and encourages female candidates to apply. Candidates should not expect any fixed-term appointment possibility after the end of this temporary assignment. The position may involve various administrative and eligibility requirements as outlined in the UN regulations.