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Secrétaire exécutif/ve, Commission océanographique intergouvernementale

UNESCOParis, France
Category | Grade:Director | ADGDeadline:6 Sep 2026Job ID:1365766757Posted on:6 Jul 2026
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Overview

Leads the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Secretariat, implementing governing body decisions and coordinating international ocean science programmes, partnerships and representation.

Department: Commission océanographique intergouvernementale

Languages

Required: English or French

Desired: Another UN language

Job Functions

  1. Programme and Project Management
  2. Agriculture, Environment and Sustainability

Minimum Experience

Not listed

Estimated Salary

USD 245,679 / annually

Responsibilities

  • Implement decisions of the IOC Assembly and Executive Council on all aspects of Commission work
  • Organize sessions and meetings of IOC governing and subsidiary bodies under IOC statutes and rules
  • Promote, coordinate and implement IOC programmes approved by the IOC Assembly
  • Lead fundraising and related financial management for IOC programmes
  • Engage the ocean science community and Member State agencies and departments
  • Coordinate collaboration with international organizations and UN system partners
  • Ensure IOC programme links with the 2030 Agenda, SDG 14, UNFCCC, CBD, Sendai Framework and SAMOA Pathway
  • Direct the IOC Secretariat staff and represent IOC in relevant meetings and bodies

Requirements

  • Advanced university degree in ocean sciences or a related field
  • Extensive professional experience in senior executive positions in one or more fields covered by IOC programmes, including substantial regional or international assignments
  • Several years of exposure to international cooperation requirements and proven familiarity with UN system and other international organizations in ocean sciences
  • Demonstrated ability to direct change processes at senior management level with large national or international institutions
  • Knowledge of trends, demands and challenges in ocean sciences and management, including in developing countries
  • Proven leadership and managerial skills with ability to provide vision and strategic direction for IOC
  • Ability to conduct high-level negotiations at international level
  • Excellent knowledge and drafting skills in English or French

Skills

Ocean SciencesOcean ManagementProgramme LeadershipInternational CooperationIntergovernmental CoordinationResource MobilisationFinancial ManagementStrategic DirectionStakeholder EngagementHigh-Level NegotiationSecretariat ManagementClimate Action

Tools

UNCLOSUNFCCCParis AgreementCBDSendai FrameworkSAMOA PathwaySDG 14

Additional info

  • Contract duration: 2 years, renewable
  • Approximate annual starting salary: US$ 245 679
  • Application deadline is midnight Paris time
  • Geographical mobility is required for staff appointed to UNESCO international posts
  • Appointments are subject to medical clearance and issuance of a visa by the host country