Head, Government Relations and Political Affairs (P-5) - OPCW

Principal Functions

• Under the supervision of the Director, External Relations, the incumbent will carry out the following responsibilities:
• Coordinate the preparation of and draft speeches and statements by the Director-General and Deputy Director-General, including his opening statements at the sessions and meetings of the Executive Council, the Conference of the States Parties, and the Review Conference, and for other senior OPCW officials;
• Coordinate the preparation of briefing material, background information and speaking notes for engagements of the Director-General and Deputy Director-General with high officials from Member States, representatives of international organisations and other stakeholders;
• Develop strategies and projects aimed at promoting universality and awareness of the Convention in collaboration with other parts of the Secretariat, including senior management as well as with interested Member States;
• Represent OPCW in meetings of other international organisations, and in other external meetings and make presentations on OPCW activities;
• Oversee research in areas which are of direct relevance to the Convention and its implementation, including in such areas as arms control theory, developments in other arms control and disarmament treaties/organisations, regional and global security;
• Makes recommendations to ensure efficient and effective work procedures, improve or streamline operations, and/or meet goals and objectives. Plans and prepares to meet wide range of changing priorities;
• Directs, and evaluates the work of the branch and direct reports in accomplishing assigned goals and objectives. Sets and evaluates overall performance objectives and accountable for overall performance of the branch staff. Responsible for the overall work product and quality of the branch. Motivates and sets work example for staff. Provides advice, counsel, and relevant know-how, together with ongoing personal support and encouragement to staff of the branch with the aim of developing the branch into a high performing team;
• Managing the staff of the Division to ensure:
•  the branch is correctly staffed and able to complete the planned programme of work;
• appropriate direction and guidance and holds staff accountable;
•  cohesive team work, and
•  necessary skills development and training in order to carry out the assigned tasks and provide staff development.
• Perform other duties as required.

Knowledge and Skills

• An advanced degree in Political Science, International Relations, Business Administration or related area. A first level university degree in combination with qualifying experience (minimum 12 years) may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree;
•  Strong writing skills;
•  Ability to articulate complex ideas;
•  An in-depth understanding of the challenges, opportunities and limitations of multilateral diplomacy especially in the area of disarmament and non-proliferation;
•  Proven record of building and managing teams and creating an enabling work environment, including ability to effectively supervise, mentor, train, develop and evaluate staff;
•  Excellent and proven planning, organisational, coordination, negotiation and problem solving skills;
•  Strong analytical and conceptual skills;
•  Excellent interpersonal, presentation and communication skills;
•  Computer literacy (MS Office software applications);
•  Tact, discretion, and the ability to work harmoniously in a multi-cultural environment.

For more details and to apply, please click here.