Associate Program Officer

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

The post is located in the Division for Transition and Developed Countries (TDC) of the Regional and National Development Sector. The TDC provides advisory services, capacity building and technical assistance towards the implementation of cooperation programs and the widespread access to and use of services provided by WIPO in Central European, Baltic States, Mediterranean, Caucasian, Central Asian and Eastern European and Transition and Developed Countries.

b.    Purpose Statement

The Associate Program Officer assists the Director in the general coordination of activities of the Division and contributes to the implementation of the Organization's cooperation programs regarding the promotion of the protection of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) in countries that fall under the responsibility of the Division, as well as supports the implementation of relevant large-scale Program activities.

c.    Reporting Lines

The incumbent works under the supervision of the Director of TDC.

2.      Duties and Responsibilities

The incumbent will perform the following principal duties:

a.   Assist the Director in developing the Division's work plans and budget; monitor budget and work plans on a regular basis; contribute to the development of performance indicators and standards in collaboration with the staff of the Division.

b.   Coordinate and support the preparation of the Division's inputs to the biennial WIPO Program and Budget, program performance reports and strategic plans.

c.   Coordinate reporting on the development, implementation, and evaluation of capacity building programs.

d.   Participate in internal meetings and keep the Director and other staff informed of developments; propose and monitor follow-up activities as required. Undertake necessary preparations for, and participate in, meetings organized or co-organized by the Organization.

e.   Provide coordination assistance to the Director in his oversight and improvement of  the design, implementation and evaluation of country plans, development projects and programs. Provide administrative and technical backstopping for tailor-made specific projects for the development and modernization of national IP systems for the economic, cultural, and social benefit of the countries concerned.

f.    In cooperation with other WIPO Sectors/Divisions, provide support in the establishment of TDC cooperation with external partners representing the academia, private sector, and non-governmental organizations.

g.   Based on major developments of IP issues in TDC countries, propose and support activities in this respect.

h.   In collaboration with the Section Heads, contribute to the preparation for the nominations of representatives of Member States for activities organized by WIPO.

i.    Assist in the management of information flows within the Division and with other Sectors; support regular monitoring and consolidation of information to inform TDC staff about new initiatives and work undertaken by other Sectors and WIPO's committees.

j.    Perform other related duties, as required.

3.      Requirements

Education (Essential)

First-level university degree in Law, Economics, International Relations, or another relevant field.

Experience (Essential)

At least three years of professional experience including in the field of IP in a national and/or international context.

Language (Essential)

Excellent (written and spoken) knowledge of English.

Language (Desirable)

Knowledge of other languages from TDC countries.

Job Related Competencies (Essential)

Knowledge of project management methodologies.

Knowledge of the legal, institutional, and cultural environment in transition and developed countries.

Sound judgment: ability to quickly assess complex and fast-moving situations and developments.

Excellent analytical, coordination and organizational skills.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and ability to maintain effective partnerships and working relations in a multi-cultural environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Competent user of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and the internet.

Advanced skills to efficiently use digital work tools and communication applications.

Job Related Competencies (Desirable)

Knowledge of the business and administrative procedures of national IP institutions.

4.      Organizational Competencies

1.    Communicating effectively.

2.    Showing team spirit.

3.    Demonstrating integrity.

4.    Valuing diversity.

5.    Producing results.

6.