Director, Enterprise Competitiveness and Institutions, DECI

Organizational Context

The International Trade Centre (ITC) supports developing and transition countries in leveraging trade and investment opportunities for sustainable and inclusive development. The Division of Enterprise Competitiveness and Institutions (DECI) focuses on enhancing the competitiveness of MSMEs and connecting them to global value chains through market-driven approaches, thought leadership, and technical assistance.

Job Purpose

The Director, Enterprise Competitiveness and Institutions (DECI) provides strategic leadership and substantive support to the Division, reporting to the Deputy Executive Director. This role involves developing innovative trade support services, managing the Division's work programme and budget, and aligning DECI's priorities with ITC's strategic plan. The Director is responsible for resource mobilization, staff development, and ensuring high-quality outputs that contribute to ITC's mandate. They will also represent ITC in international forums, foster teamwork, and manage project performance within the Results Based Management framework, while building strong stakeholder relationships.

Responsibilities

The Director will lead and provide strategic support to the Division, guiding Chiefs of Sections. They will develop innovative trade support services, manage the Division's work programme and budget, and set strategic priorities aligned with ITC's plans. Responsibilities include coordinating corporate reports for inter-governmental bodies, contributing to resource mobilization, and ensuring optimal allocation of human and financial resources. The Director will manage, guide, and develop staff, foster teamwork across ITC, and oversee project performance monitoring. They will ensure high-quality outputs, build stakeholder relationships, represent ITC internationally, and perform other required duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of 15 years of experience (17 with a first-level degree) in trade policy, trade/investment promotion, or Aid for Trade is required. Extensive experience is needed in leading complex, multi-country programs focused on enterprise competitiveness, supply chains, market access, and SME development. Experience in leading diverse teams, high-level representation, resource mobilization, and strengthening Business Support Organizations is also required. Digital transformation experience is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Accountability, Communication, Vision, Leadership, Understanding of development economics and international trade, Results-Based Management, Project management, Staff development, Stakeholder engagement, Resource mobilization, High-level representation, Teamwork, Strategic planning, Digital transformation.

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