Executive Secretary, Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission

Organizational Context

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO is the UN body for international cooperation in marine sciences, observations, ocean services, and capacity development. IOC assists Member States in enhancing ocean understanding and management, contributing to sustainable development, the 2030 Agenda (SDG 14), disaster risk reduction, climate action, and resilience. It leads the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development and addresses areas like global ocean observing systems, tsunami early warning, and ocean literacy.

Job Purpose

Under the Director-General of UNESCO, the incumbent implements decisions of the IOC Assembly and Executive Council regarding the Commission's work. This includes organizing sessions and meetings of IOC governing and subsidiary bodies, adhering to IOC Statutes, Rules of Procedure, and UNESCO General Conference decisions. The role focuses on promoting, coordinating, and implementing IOC programmes, including fundraising and financial management, while engaging the ocean science community and relevant Member State agencies. The position ensures IOC's responsiveness to international instruments like UNCLOS and supports intersectoral activities within UNESCO, aligning IOC programmes with global agendas such as the 2030 Agenda, UNFCCC, CBD, and the Sendai Framework.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and promote collaboration with international organizations, particularly within the UN system, to contribute to IOC's purposes and functions. Provide advice and cooperation in ocean and coastal area scientific research, related services, and capacity-building. Ensure IOC programmes align with the 2030 Agenda (SDG 14), UNFCCC, Paris Agreement, CBD, Sendai Framework, and SAMOA Pathway. Cooperate with UNESCO programmes on mutually agreed intersectoral activities. Ensure IOC's adherence to requirements from UNCLOS and other relevant international instruments for marine scientific research, services, and capacity development. Direct the staff of the IOC Secretariat. Represent IOC at relevant international meetings and inter-secretariat bodies. Engage the ocean science community and Member State agencies, manage fundraising and financial aspects of IOC programmes.

Work Experience

Extensive professional experience in senior executive positions within fields covered by IOC programmes, with significant regional and/or international assignments. Several years of experience in international cooperation, with proven familiarity with UN system organizations and other international bodies in ocean sciences.

Skills

Demonstrated ability to lead change in large institutions. Knowledge of ocean science trends and challenges. Proven leadership and managerial skills for strategic direction. Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities. Ability to act as IOC spokesperson. Proficiency in English or French, with working knowledge of the other desirable.

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