IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING APPLICATION DEADLINE: please note that the deadline for applications is indicated in local time as per the time zone of the applicant’s location.
1. Organizational Context
a. Organizational Setting
WIPO is strategically positioned to make a significant impact on global environmental challenges by leveraging innovation and technology. Environmental challenges have stemmed from technological advancements, and WIPO is well placed to demonstrate how these technological forces, aided by IP, can develop and scale sustainable solutions. As a multilateral leader in innovation, technology and IP within the UN system, WIPO can shape high-impact discussions and position IP and innovation as a catalyst for good. By aligning its strategic vision with environmental priorities of Member States, WIPO can shape and drive IP, innovation and technology policy work, reinforce the fulfilment of international commitments, streamline national planning, and expedite deployment of practical, scalable solutions that address the pressing environmental issues of our times.
The post is in the Climate Change and Food Security area of work in the Office of the Assistant Director General, Global Challenges and Partnerships Sector (GCPS). The Unit engages substantively with other UN and intergovernmental organizations, the private sector, and civil society to lead and inform policy deliberations, demonstrating the benefits of intellectual property in addressing global challenges such as climate change and food security.
The key priorities and implementation strategies of this engagement are summarized under the WIPO green global marketplace initiative.
b. Purpose Statement
As Head, the incumbent is responsible for directing the development, enhancement and implementation of the work of the Unit including WIPO's strategy and initiatives in managing WIPO GREEN with a focus on three primary areas:
1. Strengthening the ecosystem through building and expanding an efficient WIPO GREEN Network.
2. Actively reaching out to Member States through scaling up (and geographical diversification) of the Acceleration Projects (APs).
3. Increasing the quality of the knowledge center and strengthening the WIPO GREEN database technologies listings.
c. Reporting Lines
The incumbent works under the supervision of the Assistant Director General, Global Challenges and Partnerships Sector (GCPS).
d. Work Relations
The incumbent will interact closely with colleagues within the Global Challenges and Partnerships Sector (GCPS), as well as collaborate extensively with other sectors across WIPO, especially with Regional Divisions and External Offices in the Regional and National Development Sector (RNDS).
2. Duties and Responsibilities
The incumbent will perform the following principal duties:
a. Direct the Unit's portfolio of work to ensure the scaling up of WIPO GREEN through new initiatives, some of which are mentioned below.
b. Manage, supervise and coordinate the work of staff, consultants and external contractors of the CCFS unit; determine priorities, allocate resources for the completion, timely and quality delivery of work products per results-based management principles, ensuring that key risks are identified, assessed and managed for the achievement of agreed KPIs for the team, prepare budget proposals for the unit, lead improvement initiatives, promote innovative solutions, and ensure program objectives are met.
c. Match technology providers to solution seekers in a particular area or technological domain, and leverage and drive connections to advance green technology deployment or transfer to support a positive impact on Member States in finding creative solutions to specific needs in their own countries.
d. Direct the conduct and scale up of Acceleration Projects as a tool for creating impact on the ground and for strengthening the relationship with new finance partners such as major IP offices, government agencies, and multinational companies (MNCs) by providing funds, endorsement and visibility for new projects.
e. Leverage and advance WIPO GREEN’s brand and reach to its external stakeholders, including by conceptualizing and leading a robust communications strategy, overseeing regional and national media outreach engagement, and expanding communication beyond the IP community.
f. Provide strategic advice, guidance and support for the redevelopment of the WIPO GREEN website to showcase the impact of acceleration projects for beneficiaries on the ground, and leverage the WIPO website, publications, WIPO social media platforms, partner channels, sector events and exhibitions, and targeted e-mail communications to maximize the reach to its stakeholders.
g. Represent WIPO at relevant national, regional and international meetings, conferences, policy consultations, working groups and other events. Build and maintain influential networks to share information on WIPO policy on climate change and green technologies, as well as information on the activities of the Unit, deliver strategic presentations, and cultivate relationships with key decision-makers to advance organizational objectives.
h. Anticipate and provide strategic advice, recommendations and support to the Assistant Director General on issues, trends, opportunities and developments related to climate change, food security, and the environment.
i. Partner closely with other Sectors in WIPO to support their initiatives through networking, advocacy activities, and advisory services related to WIPO GREEN and climate change issues.
j. Perform other related duties as required.
3. Requirements
Education (Essential)
Advanced university degree in environmental studies, science or engineering, development studies, law, social sciences, or other closely related field. A first-level university degree plus two years of relevant professional experience in addition to the required experience mentioned below may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.
Experience (Essential)
At least ten years of relevant experience in the field of international development and project management in areas connected to the environment and climate change.
Familiarity as well as practical usage and experience with IP.
Strong managerial experience.
Experience in creating, convening and expanding professional networks to bring strategic agendas forward.
Experience scaling up initiatives within a multilateral environment.
Experience in driving initiatives, focusing on practical adoption and impact at national and/or local levels.
Experience (Desirable)
Experience in driving engagement with non-expert stakeholders to impact results.
Language (Essential)
Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English.
Language (Desirable)
Knowledge of other UN languages.
Job Related Competencies (Essential)
Knowledge and experience working with UN and intergovernmental organizations, IP offices, the private sector, civil society, and/or industry groups.
Politically savvy, with proven ability to interact and manage relations, both internally and externally.
Ability to establish active partner networks and maintain a large network of stand-by partners.
Capacity to promote and advocate with key stakeholders.