Customs Functional Consultant

Organizational Context

The role is within the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), part of the UN Secretariat. Specifically, it falls under the ASYCUDA Regional Coordinator for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The consultant will contribute to the efficient mapping of the ASYCUDA new platform to regional requirements, working remotely.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of this Customs Functional Consultant role is to support the efficient implementation and adaptation of the ASYCUDA new platform to meet regional requirements, particularly in Turkmenistan. The consultant will provide critical functional advice and expertise during the testing phase of new ASYCUDA and Single Window modules, ensuring their effective operation and integration with external systems. A key contribution involves preparing integration data sets and updating system information in line with new regulatory acts, thereby maintaining system accuracy and compliance. Furthermore, the role is vital in building local capacity through providing comprehensive training to customs staff and governmental entities, fostering self-sufficiency and effective utilization of the platform. Regular reporting on project status will ensure transparency and progress tracking, ultimately contributing to enhanced trade facilitation and customs modernization in the region.

Responsibilities

Under the general supervision of the UNCTAD ASYCUDA Regional Coordinator for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, the consultant will perform a range of duties focused on the ASYCUDA new platform. Key responsibilities include providing expert functional advice and support during the rigorous testing of new ASYCUDA and Single Window modules, specifically within Turkmenistan, to ensure their operational effectiveness and alignment with regional needs and international standards. The consultant will be responsible for critical technical integration tasks, such as thoroughly testing data exchange capabilities with various external systems and meticulously preparing comprehensive integration data sets. This ensures seamless interoperability and efficient data flow across diverse platforms, which is crucial for a modern customs environment. Furthermore, the role involves maintaining system accuracy and compliance by proactively updating system information in response to evolving new regulatory acts and policy changes. A significant aspect of the role is capacity building, which includes designing and delivering comprehensive training programs for customs staff and relevant governmental entities, empowering them with the necessary skills and knowledge to utilize the ASYCUDA platform effectively and independently. Finally, the consultant will contribute to project oversight and communication by providing regular, detailed inputs for project status reports and updates, ensuring all stakeholders are well-informed of progress, achievements, and any potential challenges.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of work experience in the trade, investment, or customs sector is required, with a strong preference for experience gained in Turkmenistan. Prior experience working within a customs administration, revenue authority, trade support institution, or an international organization is considered an advantage. A combination of IT and customs experience is a significant asset.

Skills

Functional advisory, ASYCUDA and Single Window module testing, data exchange testing, data set integration, system information updating, regulatory compliance, training delivery, project status reporting. Required: Fluency in written and oral English. Desirable: Knowledge of Russian and local CIS region languages, IT and Customs experience.

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