Contract InformationFixed-term for two years (first year is probationary) with the possibility of further extension, subject to satisfactory performance
Salary InformationUS$ 116,095 net per annum, plus post adjustment (currently US$ 85,097). Salary is free of income tax in the United Kingdom
PurposeUnder the overall supervision of the Director, Technical Cooperation and Implementation Division (TCID), and within the framework of the Organizationโs technical cooperation objectives, the Deputy Director, Maritime Development Subdivision, will oversee a restructured and integrated team (professional grade staff ranging from P5 to P2 and administrative team) responsible for both short-term capacity-building activities and long-term technical cooperation projects. The successful candidate will lead in formulating innovative implementation strategies, coordinating efforts across multiple regions and thematic areas, managing complex programmes and projects, and promoting synergy to ensure the effective delivery of the Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP)
Duties and ResponsibilitiesUnder the supervision and direction of the Director, TCID, the incumbent will:Strategic Leadership and Synergyโข Direct and supervise the activities of the Maritime Development Subdivision, including both short-term activities and newly integrated long-term projects, ensuring alignment with IMOโs strategic objectives.โข Provide high-level strategic guidance and leadership to the Heads of Sections responsible for Africa and the Middle East, Asia and Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean, Eastern Europe and MENA, fostering collaboration and synergy among regions and project teams.โข Drive innovation in implementation approaches to strengthen the impact of IMOโs technical cooperation work worldwide.Programme & Project Managementโข Oversee the formulation, execution, and provide support to monitoring, and evaluation of large-scale technical cooperation programmes and capacity-building initiatives under the ITCP.โข Ensure the effective coordination and governance of diverse short-term activities and long-term projects, applying robust project management principles (including results-based management and quality assurance) at every stage of the programme cycle.โข Introduce and advocate the use of innovative tools and methodologies to improve programme delivery, and evaluation in line with best practices in international development.Policy Development & Stakeholder Engagementโข Assist in shaping the Organizationโs technical cooperation strategies and policies related to maritime development, ensuring they remain relevant to evolving global maritime challenges and aligned with wider UN system objectives.โข Engage in high-level dialogue with Member States, UN agencies, international and regional organizations, and non-governmental organizations to identify and leverage implementing partnerships and enhance the visibility and effectiveness of the Organizationโs maritime development initiatives.โข Represent IMO in key interagency and external forums, ensuring coherence in approach, promoting knowledge-sharing, and advancing policy discussions on maritime development.Coordination & Oversightโข Contribute to the preparation, servicing, and follow-up of the Technical Cooperation Committee (TCC), the Council, the Assembly, and other IMO organs, as required.โข Collaborate closely with all relevant IMO Divisions/Departments to align programme objectives, coordinate activities, and share lessons learned for continuous improvement.โข Provide direction on the provision of information to Member States, UN bodies, and other stakeholders on matters under the Subdivisionโs remit.Financial & Human Resources Managementโข Exercise overall oversight of the Maritime Development Subdivisionโs financial resources, including the Technical Cooperation Fund and extra budgetary resources, ensuring effective budgeting, financial monitoring, and accountability.โข Guide the work of the Subdivisionโs staff, providing coaching, performance management, and career development opportunities in line with IMOโs policies and values.โข Develop and propose strategic work plans, administrative budgets, and programme proposals for the Subdivision, ensuring the optimal use of resources to achieve desired outcomes.Risk Management & Problem-Solvingโข Anticipate and address complex challenges affecting programme delivery, such as resource constraints, operational risks, and emerging maritime issues that require innovative solutions.โข Resolve project-level crises or bottlenecks by working collaboratively with diverse internal and external stakeholders, ensuring continuous improvement, and sustained project impact.Other Dutiesโข Carry out missions to Member States, as required, to provide advisory services, assess project needs, and strengthen cooperation.โข Perform other related duties as may be required in the interest of the Organization
Required CompetenciesStrategic Thinking & VisionDemonstrated ability to set a clear strategic direction, integrate diverse programme elements, and provide high-level advice that advances the maritime development agenda within a global context.Programme & Project Management ExpertiseProven record of designing, implementing, and evaluating large-scale programmes and projects, applying best practices in results-based management, project governance, and risk management.Leadership & Team ManagementStrong leadership abilities, including the capacity to foster collaboration across different teams, manage performance effectively, and inspire staff toward shared objectives.Technical Knowledge of IMO & Maritime SectorIn-depth understanding of IMOโs framework and the global maritime landscape, including technical cooperation and capacity-building programmes.Financial Acumen & Resource MobilizationExperience in formulating budgets, overseeing substantial financial resources, and mobilizing partnerships or donor funding to support complex international initiatives.Partnership Building & DiplomacyDemonstrated skills in cultivating productive relationships with governments, UN entities, donors, and other stakeholders; strong negotiation, advocacy, and consensus-building abilities.Communication & RepresentationExcellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present complex issues clearly to various audiences, prepare high-quality documentation, and represent the Organization in high-level forums.Innovation & Continuous ImprovementCapacity to introduce new thinking, tools, and methodologies that drive continuous improvement in programme design, management, and delivery.Proficiency in English (both written and oral). Working knowledge of another official UN language may be an asset
ExperienceAt least 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience, including a minimum of 5 years in a management or leadership position within the maritime sector or in international development, preferably in the UN or a comparable international setting.Demonstrated experience in overseeing technical cooperation programmes and capacity-building initiatives, including substantial experience in programme or project governance, design, resourcing, and implementation at an international level.Proven track record of managing multidisciplinary teams and financial resources effectively.Experience working with Member States, intergovernmental organizations, and other stakeholders on capacity-building, policy development, or strategic partnership initiatives
EducationAdvanced university degree (Masterโs degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as maritime affairs, marine science, maritime law, environmental science, environmental law, nautical science, naval architecture, maritime engineering, maritime administration, public or business administration, development studies, finance, international relations or related fields
Language SkillsProficiency in English (both written and oral). Working knowledge of another official UN language may be an asset
OthersProject & Financial ManagementMonitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL)Leadership & People ManagementCommunication & AdvocacyInnovation & Adaptive ThinkingRisk Management & Problem-Solving