Director of Protocol and Event Management

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING APPLICATION DEADLINE\:  please note that the deadline for applications is indicated in local date and time.

 

 

a.         Organizational Setting

 

The post is located in the Protocol and Event Management Division, Office of the Director General and Related Programs.  The Protocol and Event Management Division is responsible for the overall planning, directing and supervising of the full range of protocol and events services, and diplomatic liaison with representatives of Member States, Permanent and Observer Missions to WIPO, as well as other official partners.

 

b.         Purpose Statement

 

The Director of Protocol and Event Management has principal responsibility for directing, planning, coordinating and supervising the overall protocol and event services program of the Organization.

 

c.         Reporting Lines

 

The incumbent reports to the Assistant Director General and Chief of Staff.

 

d.         Work Relations

 

The incumbent works closely with senior officials throughout the Organization as well as with Member States representatives on issues required by the Office of the Director General.

 

 

 

The incumbent will perform the following principal duties\:

 

a.   Formulate and direct the event management strategy in line with WIPO's corporate and communications goals, analyze and forecast stakeholder opinion, attitudes and preferences, and outline a roadmap for the short- and long-term execution of events.  Oversee internal dissemination of knowledge within WIPO about the role of events in overall delivery.

 

b.   Oversee the planning, management and implementation of official events (receptions, exhibitions, etc.), and coordinate and implement all protocol-related services required by the Director General for functions held in WIPO headquarters and elsewhere in Geneva.  Provide "master of ceremonies" services for functions when requested by the Director General.

 

c.   Provide expert political and diplomatic advice to the Director General and senior managers on all matters relating to the Organization’s protocol and event management program, activities and services.  Develop close and effective strategic communication with Permanent Missions, other United Nations agencies, etc.

 

d.   Exercise strategic asset management, and direct the Division’s operational program. Develop capacities to flexibly deploy resources into value-added activities, create opportunities for, and manage and implement, change. Prepare annual program of work and budget documents. Empower staff, advance operational performance levels and find solutions to problems where procedures and precedents do not exist.

 

e.   Establish, develop and maintain optimum relations with high-level contacts with host country authorities, international organizations, Member States and other key stakeholders.  Liaise with senior officials from external protocol offices of other United Nations agencies and the host Government. 

 

f.    Manage the WIPO Awards Program, and enhance and improve cooperation with Member States in promoting innovation and creativity at the national level.

 

g.   Ensure the design and implementation of an effective mail distribution service to all WIPO Sectors as well as the provision of safe, timely and appropriate driver services.

 

h.   Perform other related duties as required by the Director General.

 

 

 

Education

Essential

Advanced university degree in political science, international relations, management, public relations, communications or related field.  A first-level degree with two years of experience in addition to the number of years required below may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

 

Experience

Essential

At least 15 years' relevant experience including experience in at least two of the following areas; managing protocol matters; events management; communication and diplomatic relations  in a multicultural environment/intergovernmental organization or for a government. 

Experience in planning and organizing high-level visits, meetings and other events requiring in-depth understanding of intent and political sensitivity at stake.  In-depth understanding of diplomatic practices. 

 

Language

Essential

Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English and French.  Ability to draft diplomatic correspondence in English and French.

 

Desirable

Knowledge of other official UN languages.

 

Job Related Competencies

Essential

Strong analytical skills.  Good judgment.  

Strong planning and organizational skills. 

Proven ability to work under pressure, and to maintain tact and composure at all times in such circumstances.  High level of political and diplomatic skills and discretion. 

Ability to effectively and efficiently coordinate with a wide range of actors, both within the Organization and externally, and deliver results often with very short lead times. 

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

Effective public speaking skills.

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

 

Desirable

 

Knowledge of Intellectual Property issues.

A broad understanding of different national and cultural sensitivities.  

Comprehensive knowledge of multilateral protocol policies, procedures and operations.

 

 

 

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.

9.     Developing yourself and others.