Speech Writer

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.

This post is a limited-term fixed-term post.

1.     Organizational Context

a.    Organizational Setting

The post is located in the Office of the Director General (ODG). The ODG provides support to the Director General so as to enable him to carry out his duties efficiently and effectively.

b.    Purpose Statement

Working for the Director General, the Speech Writer is responsible for undertaking research and developing and writing speeches, briefings and presentations on a wide variety of topics relating to innovation, creativity and intellectual property, as directed by the Director General.

c.    Reporting Lines

The incumbent works under the supervision of the Director General.

2.      Duties and Responsibilities

The incumbent will perform the following principal duties:

a.   Prepare materials for, and drafts of, speeches, which communicate effectively the themes, concepts and messages which the Director General wishes to convey to highly diverse audiences;

b.   Conduct research and compile factual and illustrative material in support of the ideas that the Director General needs to communicate to a specific audience;

c.   Work closely with in-house WIPO experts and coordinate and edit their inputs to the Director General's speeches and presentations;

d.   Prepare presentations suited to the audience and platform and assist the Director General with speech delivery preparation;

e.   Keep well informed of new developments and issues concerning innovation, intellectual property, geopolitical developments and WIPO;

f.    Perform other related duties as required.

3.      Requirements

Education (Essential)

First-level university degree in Journalism, English, Literature, Communications, Creative Writing, International Affairs, Social Sciences or a relevant subject.

Education (Desirable)

Advanced university degree in a relevant subject.

Experience (Essential)

At least six years of relevant professional experience, including in a similar role.

Language (Essential)

Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English.

Language (Desirable)

Good knowledge of French.

Job Related Competencies (Essential)

Outstanding communication and writing skills, including the proven ability to convey complex information in clear and interesting terms, and to tailor its communication to a variety of audiences.

Knowledge of intellectual property or commitment to develop such knowledge.

Strong conceptual skills and the intellectual versatility required to master the essentials of wide-ranging technical, legal and policy subject matter.

Excellent research and analytical skills.

Sound political judgment.

A good understanding of public speaking, attention to detail and ability to remain resilient and complete multiple revisions if needed.

Strong team player showing commitment to the work of the group in order to complete tasks, meet goals, manage projects and achieve results.

Excellent listening skills and ability to respect ideas.

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

Good knowledge of social media.

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

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.