Secrétaire exécutif/ve, Commission océanographique intergouvernementale

Organizational Context

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO is the United Nations body responsible for international cooperation and coordination of programs in marine sciences, ocean observations and services, and capacity building. IOC enables Member States to improve their understanding and management of the oceans, contributing to sustainable development, the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (particularly SDG 14), disaster risk reduction, climate action, and resilience. The Commission leads the implementation of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030).

Job Purpose

The incumbent, under the authority of the Director-General of UNESCO, implements decisions adopted by the IOC Assembly and Executive Council. This involves organizing the Commission's work in all aspects, including sessions and meetings of its governing and subsidiary bodies, in accordance with IOC statutes and rules of procedure. The primary function is to promote, coordinate, and implement IOC programs as approved by its Assembly and presented to the UNESCO General Conference. This includes fundraising and financial management, while engaging the ocean science community and relevant Member State bodies. The role ensures IOC's responsiveness to requirements stemming from UNCLOS and other international instruments related to marine scientific research, services, and capacity development. The incumbent will lead the IOC Secretariat staff and represent IOC in relevant meetings and inter-agency bodies.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and foster collaboration with international organizations interested in the Commission's activities, particularly within the UN system, to achieve IOC's objectives and functions. Gather advice and cooperate in scientific research concerning oceans and coastal areas, related services, and capacity building. Ensure appropriate linkages between IOC programs and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDG 14), UNFCCC, Paris Agreement, CBD, Sendai Framework, and the Samoa Pathway. Undertake intersectoral coordination and cooperation activities as needed within UNESCO's program and the Commission's mandate. Ensure IOC's compliance with UNCLOS and other international instruments for marine scientific research, services, and capacity development. Lead the IOC Secretariat staff. Represent IOC in meetings of other organizations and bodies, and participate in inter-agency secretariats relevant to IOC's work. Oversee the organization of sessions and meetings of IOC's governing and subsidiary bodies.

Work Experience

Extensive professional experience in positions of responsibility within one or more areas of IOC's programs, including significant regional and/or international assignments. Several years of experience with international cooperation requirements and proven knowledge of UN system organizations and other international bodies in ocean sciences.

Skills

Proven ability to lead change processes at a senior management level in large national or international institutions. Knowledge of trends, requirements, and challenges in ocean sciences and ocean management, including in developing countries. Demonstrated leadership and management skills, with the capacity to provide strategic vision and direction. Ability to mobilize staff energy and talent, fostering teamwork. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to define, analyze, and communicate priorities and strategies. Ability to develop effective working relationships with IOC Bureau members, Member States, permanent delegations, UNESCO management, key stakeholders, and partners. Capacity for high-level international negotiations. Fluency in English or French is essential.

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