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$93,108). Salary is free of income tax in the United Kingdom
PurposeUnder the overall supervision of the Director, Technical Cooperation and Implementation Division (TCID), the incumbent provides strategic leadership of the Organizationโs Member State Audit and instruments implementation support portfolioโlinking audit oversight with targeted capacity development, knowledge generation, and policy development across IMO. The role ensures the Sub-Divisionโs people and resources are directed to deliver system-level improvements in implementation and enforcement of IMO instruments while embedding lessons learned into organizational planning and decision-making.The Sub-Division leads: (i) the end-to-end delivery, governance and continual improvement of the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS); (ii) cross-cutting instruments implementation support (including casualty investigation, port State control outreach/reporting, survey and certification, and compliance facilitation); and (iii) translation of audit findings and compliance data into targeted technical assistance and strategic advice to IMO organs, Member States and partners. The Deputy Director steers these functions as a coherent programme, aligned to IMOโs strategic objectives and TCIDโs integrated delivery model
Duties and Responsibilities1) Strategic leadership & visionSet the strategic direction for SDMSAI, positioning audits and implementation support as enablers for compliance, safety, environmental protection, and effective governance of maritime administrations.Provide input in shaping multi-year workplans that connect IMSAS outcomes to targeted support under ITCP and major projects, with clear results chains, KPIs and risk mitigation.2) Governance of the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS)Oversee planning, delivery and quality assurance of IMSAS in line with its framework and procedures; ensure auditor capability, consistency, independence and ethical standards.Drive continuous improvement of audit tools, methods and post-audit follow-up, including risk-based scheduling and the systematic capture of lessons learned.3) Instruments implementation support & compliance facilitationDirect instruments implementation-support services (e.g., development and maintenance of tools to assist in flag/port/coastal State obligations; casualty investigation analysis/lessons learned; PSC outreach and reporting; survey and certification), ensuring coherence with relevant IMO organs and mechanisms.Provide input in translating audit findings and compliance data into practical guidance, model processes, and prioritized national/regional support packages.4) Policy development & adviceProvide authoritative advice to senior leadership and IMO organs (Assembly, Council, TCC, III and others) on trends, systemic bottlenecks and strategic options to strengthen implementation.Inform rule-making and technical cooperation policies by channelling evidence from audits, PSC/casualty investigations and instruments implementation experience.5) Data, knowledge & digital enablementDirect robust evidence and knowledge system for Member State audits and instruments implementation support (dashboards, analytics etc), enabling transparency, performance management, and targeted interventions.Champion digital tools, data standards and use of analysis to streamline Member State audit management, follow-up tracking, analysis of casualty and PSC data, and reporting across IMO and with partners.6) Partnerships & external engagementCultivate strategic partnerships with Member States, UN system entities, regional bodies, classification societies, and donors to leverage capabilities and co-finance targeted assistance.Represent IMO in high-level fora to advance a coherent global approach to compliance and capacity development.7) People leadership & cultureLead a diverse, multidisciplinary team; set clear goals, provide coaching, manage performance, and foster an inclusive, learning-oriented culture aligned with UN values.Plan workforce capabilities (auditors, analysts, specialists) to meet current and emerging needs, including talent pipelines and surge capacity.8) Financial stewardship & risk managementOversee budgets (regular, TC Fund, and extrabudgetary), ensuring cost-effective delivery, value for money, and strong internal controls.Manage the risks (operational, strategic, reputational) with mitigations across audit delivery, instruments implementation support, and stakeholder relations.9) Organization-wide coordination & contributionEnsure close coordination with technical divisions and other TCID Sub-Divisions to align objectives, avoid duplication, and scale successful approaches.Contribute to change-management initiatives, internal policies, and cross-organizational priorities.10) Other dutiesPerform other tasks as required by the Director or Secretary-General
Required CompetenciesStrategic thinking and systems leadershipAnticipates global/regional trends; integrates Member State audits and compliance, and provides input into capacity building to form a coherent system that advances IMO objectives.Programme and portfolio managementDesigns and governs complex, multi-stakeholder portfolios using quality assurance, and adaptive management.Technical mastery of IMO instruments implementationGood knowledge and understanding of IMO instruments, the IMSAS framework/procedures and auditing under the Instruments Implementation Code, maritime administration functions, PSC, casualty investigation, survey and certification, and compliance facilitation.Partnership building and diplomacyBuilds strategic alliances; negotiates and influences to achieve consensus and results with governments, UN entities and partners.Data-informed decision-makingUses evidence and analytics to prioritize, allocate resources, and advise IMO organs and Member States.People leadership and inclusionLeads diverse teams with clarity and empathy; develops talent; upholds UN values and a culture of continuous improvement.Communication and representationFrames complex issues clearly for senior audiences; produces high-quality documentation; represents IMO effectively.Financial acumen and risk managementManages significant budgets; assures value for money; proactively manages operational and strategic risks
ExperienceA minimum of 15 years relevant professional experience, including five years in a management position within the maritime sector, with emphasis on international regulations and their implementation
EducationAdvanced university degree in a maritime related field (such as Marine Engineering, Nautical Science, Naval Architecture, Naval construction, Maritime Administration or a related field), law or international transport discipline. A certification in audit is highly desirable
Language SkillsProficiency in English (written and oral) is essential. Working knowledge of other official language(s) of the United Nations is highly desirable
OthersProven expertise in providing authoritative advice to chief executives and senior teams.Experience in formulating policies, strategic planning and managing programmes and projects related to the implementation and enforcement of IMO conventions.In-depth knowledge of international maritime conventions and instruments.General knowledge of the functions of a maritime administration and its role in the implementation and enforcement of international maritime standards.Proficiency in MS Office applications.Knowledge of IMO instruments and the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS) would be an asset