Head of Strategic Management and Coordination – EXD

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTORATE (EXD)

The Executive Directorate (EXD) is the steward of OECD resources, on behalf of the Secretary-General.  Our focus is on people and their wellbeing; the effective and efficient management of the budget; the safety and security of staff, Delegations, visitors, and of the OECD’s data; maintaining and sustaining physical and digital infrastructure; and enabling the convening power of the OECD through conferences, meetings and events, whether virtual, physical or hybrid.  As well as providing corporate services, functions and management support to our staff and Members, we provide integrated, strategic and expert advice on corporate policies and management issues to the Secretary-General, to Council and to Standing Committees, to which we regularly report on corporate matters. We also provide compliance and risk management functions (for management areas under our purview). Ours is a fast-paced environment focused on delivering management excellence across all of our functions.

THE POSITION

EXD is seeking a strategic, experienced senior leader as Head of Strategic Management and Coordination in the Executive Director’s Office. A key member of the management team, they will work closely with the Executive Director in developing and implementing strategic objectives to support EXD’s stewardship role, engaging and liaising with the Office of the Secretary-General (OSG) and key stakeholders, strengthening the management culture across EXD, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Director’s office. They will monitor and co-ordinate EXD work, provide strategic advice and input, and enhance EXD outputs and deliverables based on the overall objectives of the Organisation, while ensuring co-operations with key stakeholders. The successful candidate will manage a team of staff in the Director’s Office and will report to the Executive Director.

Main Responsibilities

Advisory

• Support the Executive Director in the development and implementation of EXD’s strategic objectives.
• Advise and support the Executive Director in the preparation of the Directorate’s work agenda and budgeting processes, identifying priorities and key deliverables.
• Regularly review and assess the Directorate’s work programme, and make recommendations for adjustments based on organisational needs, work progress and resource availability; and while taking account of the Organisation’s management control frameworks.
• Identify challenges in the Directorates’ work programme, provide analysis and advice on the implementation of measures to improve effectiveness, efficiency and management excellence while identifying opportunities to pursue innovative solutions.
• Review and assess new project and initiative proposals, determining their alignment with strategic objectives and advising on feasibility, impact on resources, and the expected returns and outputs.
• Contribute to flagship corporate initiatives and horizontal projects.

Representation and Liaison

• Foster and maintain relationships with Delegations, the Organisation’s senior leadership team and other key stakeholders while continuously identifying and developing relevant networks. Facilitate the work of the Directorate by securing the support of and working in cooperation with these stakeholders.
• Facilitate the communication of the Directorate’s strategic plan, objectives and work programme to relevant stakeholders in a cohesive and comprehensive manner, ensuring key messages are relayed.
• Act as a liaison for internal and external stakeholders and partners, providing information on the Directorate’s work programme, supporting and facilitating strategic partnerships and fostering co-operation.
• Represent the Executive Director as needed.
• Adhere to and role model to the highest standard, the values and ethical principles in the OECD's Code of Conduct in all internal and external matters.

Management and Co-ordination

• Support the Executive Director in co-ordinating the regular work of the Directorate’s Services, punctual projects and key initiatives by providing strategic input, monitoring staff, resources and Directorate procedures, facilitating co-operation and information sharing and making recommendations for improvements.
• Manage and oversee the day-to-day work of the Director’s Office, planning and distributing assignments to the Office’s Counsellors and support staff, ensuring quality of outputs and that key deadlines are met.
• Supervise, motivate, and develop the Director’s Office team, providing guidance on effective working methods, good communication and creating a positive working environment.
• Promote excellence within the team and across EXD through effective performance management and professional development of staff.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Academic Background

• Advanced degree in international affairs, politics, business administration, project management, information systems or other related discipline.

Professional Background

• At least ten years of relevant professional experience, at a progressively senior management level and preferably in an international context.
• Experience in representation with senior official in various public fora and briefings at both the national and international level.
• A deep understanding of governance and operations frameworks of the OECD as well as a solid understanding of governance in international organisations and the public sector more broadly.

Languages

• Fluency in one of the two OECD official languages (English and French) and a knowledge of, or a willingness to learn, the other.
• Knowledge of other languages would be an asset.

Core Competencies

• In addition to the above Key Skills, the following core competencies are of particular importance for this role\: Analytical thinking, Diplomatic Sensitivity, Influencing, Negotiating, Organisational Knowledge, Strategic Networking, and Strategic Thinking
• Please refer to level 5 of OECD Core Competencies.

Contract Duration

Two year fixed term appointment, with the possibility of renewal.

What the OECD offers

• Monthly base salary starting from 10,653 EUR, plus allowances based on eligibility, exempt of French income tax.
• Click here to learn more about what we offer and why the OECD is a great place to work.
• Click here to browse our People Management Guidebook and learn more about all aspects relating to people at the OECD, our workplace environment and many other policies supporting staff in their daily life.

Please note that the appointment may be made at a lower grade based on the qualifications and professional experience of the selected applicant.

Please note that our Rules and Regulations stipulate that the mandatory retirement age is 65.

The OECD is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes the applications of all qualified candidates [who are nationals of OECD member countries], irrespective of their racial or ethnic origin, opinions or beliefs, gender, sexual orientation, health or disabilities.

The OECD promotes an optimal use of resources in order to improve its efficiency and effectiveness. Staff members are encouraged to actively contribute to this goal.