Senior Program Officer, IP for Business Division

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 intellectual property rights are respected and enforced globally. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 1,200 employees from various cultural backgrounds, contributing to its goal of promoting a balanced and accessible international intellectual property system.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Officer position is situated within the IP for Business Division (IPBD) of WIPO, which serves as the central reference point for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) regarding intellectual property (IP) issues. The role involves providing expert support in the development and implementation of programs that assist businesses in leveraging the IP system as a strategic asset. The incumbent will be responsible for promoting the tools and resources of the IPBD through partnerships with key stakeholders, including national and regional institutions. This position requires a proactive approach to engage with various external partners, including National IP Offices and innovation agencies, to facilitate the implementation of programs that enhance the understanding and utilization of IP in business strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Developing and implementing initiatives and programs focused on IP Management and IP Commercialization tailored for businesses.
• Promoting the tools and materials of the IP for Business Division through strategic partnerships with regional and national institutions.
• Organizing events to showcase the Division's programs and services, aimed at engaging businesses, startups, and intermediary organizations, while facilitating policy discussions on enhancing the use of the IP system.
• Collaborating with Member States, international organizations, and relevant national institutions to facilitate program implementation and promote the Division's services.
• Preparing comprehensive reports and informational materials to elucidate how the IP system can bolster competitive business strategies.
• Performing additional related duties as required to support the Division's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in law, economics, business management, accounting, or finance. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in a relevant discipline, combined with two years of relevant experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Desirable qualifications include a university degree or studies in intellectual property law or management, business management, or economics, as well as a Master's degree in Innovation or IP management or strategy, and a certificate in project management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as law, economics, business management, accounting, or finance. Candidates with a first-level university degree in these disciplines may be considered if they have additional relevant experience. Desirable educational qualifications include studies specifically in intellectual property law or management, business management, and economics, as well as advanced degrees in innovation or IP management.

Experience:
The position requires at least seven years of experience in intellectual property management, with a minimum of four years in the private sector or in a consultancy role supporting businesses in developing and implementing their IP strategies. Desirable experience includes exposure to government or UN organizations, particularly in managing large-scale collaborative projects involving multiple stakeholders, as well as experience in areas related to IP management and strategy such as IP due diligence, licensing agreements, brand management, IP audits, IP transactions, or IP litigation.

Languages:
Excellent written and spoken English is essential for this position. Knowledge of other official United Nations languages is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at the P4 level, with an annual salary of approximately $77,326, plus a post adjustment of $56,912, leading to a total estimated salary of $134,238, paid in Swiss francs. The initial contract is for a period of two years, renewable based on satisfactory performance. The organization encourages applications from qualified women and nationals from unrepresented Member States of WIPO. Candidates should be aware that any misrepresentation during the application process may lead to disqualification or termination of employment. The selected candidate may be required to provide identification and educational qualifications prior to appointment.