Post Number : CLT 001
Grade : ADG
Parent Sector : Culture Sector (CLT)
Duty Station: Paris
Job Family: Administration
Type of contract : Fixed Term
Duration of contract : 2 years, renewable
Recruitment open to : Internal and external candidates
Application Deadline (Midnight Paris Time) : 02-JAN-2026
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism
https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000386038
The Culture Sector plays a central role in UNESCO’s mission to promote the role of culture, heritage and creativity as a global public good and an important enabler of sustainable economic and social development, a source of knowledge and resilience and a vector for dialogue and cooperation. It supports Member States in implementing UNESCO’s six cultural conventions as platforms for advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, addressing the challenges posed by conflicts, climate change and natural disasters on culture.
Under the authority of the Director-General, the Assistant Director-General for Culture provides strategic leadership, intellectual vision and managerial oversight for UNESCO’s Culture Sector (Major Programme IV). The incumbent is responsible for the formulation and implementation of the Sector’s overall strategy, ensuring that UNESCO remains the global leader in the field of culture.
Working closely with other Assistant Directors-General, the incumbent fosters transversal collaboration across sectors, ensuring that culture is fully integrated into UNESCO’s broader programme delivery, particularly in relation to education, the sciences, communication and information.
The Assistant Director-General for Culture will:
For further information on the specific above-mentioned programmes, candidates may consult our website: https://www.unesco.org/en, and/or the following documents: 41 C/4 (UNESCO’s Medium-Term Strategy for 2022 – 2029) and 43 C/5 (Draft UNESCO’s Programme and Budget for 2026 – 2029 quadrennium).
Education
Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a discipline related to the field of culture.
Work Experience
At least 15 years of progressively responsible relevant professional experience from senior leadership/executive positions in areas directly related to UNESCO’s Culture Programme, including assignments at the regional and/or international levels. Proven record of leadership in developing and implementing policies, programmes or international frameworks in areas related to culture. Demonstrated experience in leading large, diverse teams and managing organizational transformation, including change management and strategic planning. Substantial experience representing an organization and engaging effectively with high-level government/international officials.Skills & Competencies
Knowledge of, and commitment to, the Organization’s mandate, vision, strategic directions and priorities. Strong and innovative leadership, capable of articulating a compelling vision for the role of culture. Strong political acumen and diplomatic skills to represent UNESCO effectively and engage high-level stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to lead institutional transformation, manage change and foster a culture of accountability, diversity and performance. Strong ability to interact effectively at the highest governmental levels, as well as with leaders of the private sector and civil society, and to mobilize resources and to build collaborative partnerships and networks with and between a wide variety of stakeholders. Excellent communication skills with strong representational abilities.
Languages
Excellent knowledge and drafting skills in one of the working languages of the Organization (English or French).
Education
A Ph.D. level degree in the field of culture or other related areas.
Work Experience
Awareness and knowledge of UNESCO’s strategic objectives and of wider processes within the United Nations system.Languages
Working knowledge of the second language (English or French). Knowledge of other official languages of UNESCO (Arabic, Chinese, Russian or Spanish).
UNESCO’s salaries consist of a basic salary and other benefits which may include if applicable: 30 days annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, pension plan etc.
The approximate annual starting salary for this post is US $246,506.
For full information on benefits and entitlements, please consult our Guide to Staff Benefits.
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the