Senior External Relations Officer

Senior External Relations Officer

Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO)

May 9, 2025June 23, 2025ViennaAustria
Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) About
The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) bans nuclear explosions by everyone, everywhere: on the Earth's surface, in the atmosphere, underwater and underground. Since the Treaty is not yet in force, the organization is called the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO). It was founded in 1996, has over 260 staff from over 70 countries, and is based in Vienna. The CTBTO’s main tasks are the promotion of the Treaty and the build-up of the verification regime so that it is operational when the Treaty enters into force.
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) is an international organization established to implement the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). The CTBT aims to ban all nuclear explosions and is a key component of global efforts to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. The organization is headquartered in Vienna, Austria, and operates a global verification system that includes a network of 337 monitoring stations, an international data center, and protocols for on-site inspections. The CTBTO is committed to promoting international cooperation and ensuring compliance with the treaty, which is vital for global security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and stability. The organization values integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity, and encourages qualified female applicants and persons with disabilities to apply. It has a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, engaging with various stakeholders to advance its mission.

Job Overview:
The Senior External Relations Officer will play a crucial role in shaping and implementing the CTBTO's external relations strategies and policies. This position requires a high level of political acumen and the ability to provide strategic advice on negotiations related to verification arrangements. The officer will be responsible for driving initiatives aimed at promoting the entry into force of the CTBT, enhancing political awareness, and fostering international cooperation. This includes organizing workshops, seminars, and information visits to engage with States Signatories and non-signatories. The role also involves managing relationships with intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, ensuring that the CTBTO's outreach initiatives align with its strategic goals. The officer will oversee the preparation of external relations materials and coordinate closely with various divisions within the organization to ensure coherence and impact in communications. Leadership and mentorship of section staff are also key responsibilities, fostering a positive team culture and ensuring effective resource management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Conceptualize, design, and implement external relations strategies and policies aligned with CTBTO objectives.
  • Provide high-level political advice on negotiations related to verification arrangements.
  • Drive initiatives to advance the entry into force and universality of the CTBT, including organizing workshops and seminars.
  • Manage relationships with States Signatories, non-signatories, and various organizations through high-level outreach.
  • Lead the development and implementation of strategic outreach initiatives for the Executive Secretary.
  • Oversee participation in international conferences and meetings, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
  • Manage the CTBTO's protocol functions and activities, adhering to diplomatic best practices.
  • Prepare external relations materials, ensuring accuracy and coherence.
  • Coordinate with the Senior Liaison Officer in New York to monitor developments in relevant organizations. 1
  • Lead and manage the work of the section, developing work programs and priorities. 1
  • Provide leadership and mentorship to section staff, fostering a high-performing team culture. 1
  • Manage financial and other resources in accordance with organizational regulations. 1
  • Serve as Officer in Charge in the absence of the Director. 1
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess proven leadership and management experience, with the ability to lead teams in a multicultural environment. Strong analytical and negotiation skills are essential, along with the capacity to work on complex issues independently. Candidates should demonstrate sound political judgment and the ability to provide authoritative advice on external relations matters. Experience in developing and implementing external relations strategies is required, as well as the ability to establish and maintain strategic partnerships through effective diplomatic engagement. Candidates should also exhibit a commitment to fostering a collaborative work environment and achieving results.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in international relations, political science, law, public administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. Candidates with an advanced degree should have a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in international relations and multilateral diplomacy, preferably in non-proliferation and disarmament. Those with a first-level degree should have a minimum of twelve years of relevant experience in similar fields.

Experience:
Candidates must have extensive experience in international relations and multilateral diplomacy, particularly in non-proliferation and disarmament, arms control, and international security. Experience in a multicultural environment is essential, with a proven track record of leadership and management in similar roles. The ability to work on multiple complex issues simultaneously and deliver high-quality results is crucial.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory. Knowledge of other official CTBTO languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is desirable and will be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Fixed Term Appointment with a grade level of P-
  • The deadline for applications is 11 May 202
  • Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the CTBTO e-Recruitment system. The CTBTO retains the discretion not to make any appointment to this vacancy and may appoint at a lower grade if necessary. The organization will only consider academic credentials from institutions recognized in the IAU/UNESCO list. The CTBTO will correspond only with shortlisted candidates, and those under serious consideration will undergo a reference-checking process.
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