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 Latin America and the Caribbean (DLAC), Department for Development Cooperation in the Regional and National Development Sector at WIPO.  The Sector provides a diplomatic, political and operational gateway for all Member States (MSs) of the Organization; facilitating two-way communication and cooperation across WIPO; supporting MSs in the development and implementation of policy in the context of effective IP ecosystems; and strengthening the capacity of MSs and stakeholders in the use of IP as a tool for growth and development. The Division for Latin America and the Caribbean is the focal point for the provision of technical assistance and capacity building programs to the 33 WIPO MSs from Latin America and the Caribbean region (LAC). These activities are provided in close cooperation with relevant Sectors within WIPO. They are aimed at facilitating the use of IP by businesses and innovators for social, cultural and economic development.

b.    Purpose Statement

The incumbent is responsible for supporting the design, implementation and monitoring of technical assistance programs and other project-based initiatives for the countries and intergovernmental organizations assigned. The incumbent further advises on and manages the planning and execution of the programs of the Division.

c.    Reporting Lines

The incumbent works under the supervision of the Director of the Division for Latin America and the Caribbean.

d.    Work Relations

The incumbent liaises extensively with other programs throughout the Organization.

2.      Duties and Responsibilities

The incumbent will perform the following principal duties:

a.   Provide substantive input, advice, and support for the design, management, and implementation of projects and skills-building programs focused on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), creators, innovators, and communities to generate value through IP in a results-oriented, timely and efficient manner.

b.   Establish and maintain close working relationships with stakeholders from Latin America and the Caribbean region (LAC) including Permanent Missions, IP Offices, IP users and other partner organizations.

c.   Develop new projects, including by preparing project and budget proposals, funding requests and outreach/visibility materials.

d.   Prepare and revise technical reports, concept notes, briefings, and talking points related to technical assistance and/or diplomatic engagements.

e.   Draft the Division’s work plan in collaboration with the Director and Program Managers, and oversee the implementation of the work plan, working with PMs to ensure achievement of objectives in a timely and efficient manner.

f.    Participate in missions or meetings, provide information and support with respect to project management and procedures for monitoring and reporting, draft comments on designated project aspects, and recommend activities for the Division's program.

g.   Initiate and produce data and information collection and assist in the preparation of DLAC's managerial reports including program and budget proposals, program performance reports, and the annual budget and work plan.

h.   Perform other related duties as required.

3.      Requirements

Education (Essential)

First-level university degree in law, economics, international relations or another relevant discipline.

Experience (Essential)

At least six years of relevant professional experience in intellectual property or in international coordination and cooperation.

Language (Essential)

Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English and Spanish.

Language (Desirable)

Knowledge of other UN languages.

Job Related Competencies (Essential)

Sound knowledge of project management methodologies.

Sound knowledge of the business and administrative procedures of national IP institutions.

Excellent analytical and organizational skills.

Ability to work on own initiative and as a member of a team.

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

4.      Organizational Competencies

1.      Communicating effectively.

2.      Showing team spirit.

3.      Demonstrating integrity.

4.      Valuing diversity.

5.      Producing results.

6.      Showing service orientation.

7.      Seeing the big picture.

8.      Seeking change and innovation.