Director, Innovation Impact Division (IID)
Organizational Context
The Innovation Impact Division (IID) is part of WIPO's IP for Innovators Department, focusing on leveraging technology transfer, IP analytics, and commercialization to support innovators and creators. The Division develops frameworks, structures, and capacities to help stakeholders use intellectual property (IP) as a tool for sustainable growth and development, enhancing their commercial and financial assets.
Job Purpose
The Director is responsible for leading WIPO's efforts in developing legal and policy frameworks, alongside providing technical assistance and services that empower innovators and creators to utilize intellectual property (IP) for sustainable growth. This involves setting strategic direction to expand WIPO's services for innovators and creators, and maximizing impact by leveraging the management team's expertise in technology transfer, IP analytics, and commercialization. The role focuses on scaling services and ensuring their effectiveness in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Responsibilities
The Director provides strategic direction for the Division's portfolio in technology transfer, IP analytics, and IP commercialization. This includes strengthening innovation infrastructure and legal frameworks for institutions and countries, enabling Member States to benefit from IP analytics, and supporting innovators in maximizing IP as a commercial asset. The role ensures coordination of Division activities with the Department and Organization, manages human and financial resources, and sets priorities for quality delivery. The Director leads and mentors a multidisciplinary team, fosters an innovation-oriented culture, and promotes collaboration. Strategic engagement with Member States and stakeholders, representation of WIPO in high-level meetings, and oversight of partnerships are key. The position also involves responding to Member State needs, expanding the Division's work, and promoting WIPO treaties.
Work Experience
At least fifteen years of progressively responsible professional experience in intellectual property and/or innovation, including seven years of senior managerial experience. Experience at a senior level in technology transfer, IP analytics, or IP commercialization is required. International work experience and experience leading interdisciplinary teams are essential.
Skills
Extensive knowledge of the international IP system and expert knowledge in IP analytics, technology transfer, or IP commercialization. Strong judgment, tact, and diplomatic skills. Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing, and presentation abilities. Superior managerial skills for leading diverse teams and fostering innovation. Data-driven mindset, strong business acumen, analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills for effective partnerships in a multicultural environment.