Head(s) of Division

THE OECD – Who we are, what we do

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an international organisation comprised of 38 member countries, whose mission is to build better policies for better lives. We promote policies that will improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world. Together with governments, policy makers and citizens, we work on to establish evidence-based international standards, and finding solutions to a broad range of social, economic and environmental challenges, from the improvement of economic performance and creating jobs to fostering strong education and fighting international tax evasion. We provide a unique forum and knowledge hub for data and analysis, exchange of experiences, best-practice sharing, and advice on public policies and international standard-setting.

THE SAHEL AND WEST AFRICA CLUB

The Sahel and West Africa Club (SWAC/OECD) is an international platform for policy dialogue and analysis, devoted to building effective regional policies to improve living conditions in West Africa. Created in 1976, it brings together West African organisations, countries and international organisations and is the only international entity entirely dedicated to regional co-operation in Africa. SWAC/OECD facilitates co-ordination, conducts independent and forward-looking analysis, and devises guidelines and policy tools for Members and stakeholders.

THE POSITION

SWAC/OECD is looking for dynamic and innovative Head(s) of Division with a strategic mindset to lead its multi-sectoral work. The role involves overseeing implementation of the SWAC/OECD Programme of Work and Budget and the monitoring of SWAC/OECD's strategic objectives related to its thematic work, covering topics such as (but not exclusively)\: food security, urbanisation, security, environment, food systems, gender, employment. The person will need to be link these (and other) topics and demonstrate how they impact the region. More info can be found on the SWAC/OECD website.

The breadth and complexity of the themes which SWAC/OECD covers requires an experienced professional with an excellent understanding of the unique challenges facing West African countries and how these challenges intertwine. S/he will need to thrive in a fast paced, multidisciplinary work environment and be able to adapt to the ever-changing policy landscape.

Under the supervision of the Director, they will work to enhance SWAC’s visibility and the impact of its work while supporting the OECD’s strategic objectives in the development of its relationship with the African continent, including stakeholders such as the African Union.

Main responsibilities

Leadership

• Lead a division in line with the priorities set by Members within the Programme of Work and Budget.
• Identify potential activities and trends as they occur that should be addressed by SWAC/OECD work, including sources of policy analysis and advice, and key vehicles for international co-operation.
• Provide innovative solutions to contextual challenges such as data collection, indicators
• Improve the understanding, awareness, use and adoption of the instruments and tools developed by SWAC/OECD for use by West African governments; strategic outreach and communication tools in particular.

Representation and Liaison

• Represent SWAC/OECD at high-level internal and external meetings including international fora such as the Munich Security conference and COP meetings, using the occasions to develop networks that can help valorise SWAC/OECD work and improve its impact.
• Contribute to the strengthening of cooperation with governments, regional organisations, universities and think tanks, and civil society organisations in West Africa, in the areas covered by SWAC/OECD work.
• Develop strategic communications channels and tools to ensure successful dissemination of SWAC/OECD work through the media, professional networks and the academic world.
• Lead and oversee missions to SWAC/OECD Member Countries and partners, including meetings with Ministers and other high level policy makers.

Management and Coordination

• Build and lead a cohesive, multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary team. Clearly define priorities and work calendars while monitoring performance and supporting the development of individual team members.
• Oversee the long-term financial stability of the division, including identifying fundraising opportunities and contribute to the definition of fundraising strategy in collaboration with the Head of Management and Partnership Unit.
• Support the implementation of SWAC/OECD’s monitoring and evaluation system, developing key indicators and strategic objectives for the themes covered by the Division.
• Adhere to and promote the highest professional standards and the ethical principles of the OECD's Code of Conduct in all internal and external matters. Ensure a caring environment where managers promote, respect and support staff in developing their full potential.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Academic and Professional Background

• An advanced university degree in international development, social sciences, politics or other related discipline.
• At least 15 years of relevant professional experience, at a progressively senior management level and preferably in an international context.
• Extensive experience in innovative policy research, policy dialogue, analysis in a West African context.
• Experience in conducting policy dialogues, managing diplomatic sensitivities and building consensus in the course of work, including in international meetings and dialogues.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to communicate complex technical issues to a variety of audiences.
• Proven ability to mobilise funding from a variety of sources to support the delivery of the work programme.
• Strong communication and networking skills; ability to foster buy-in from Members and partners in the implementation of SWAC/OECD activities and in the co-production of knowledge based on evidence-based analysis.
• Experience in developing a strong collaborative culture and commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
• Experience of working with Sahelian, West African and African organisations and having a proven knowledge of West Africa would be a strong asset.

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

• For this role, the following OECD Core Competencies are particularly important\: Achievement focus, Drafting skills, Teamwork, Client focus and Diplomatic sensitivity.
• Please refer to the level 5 indicators of the OECD Core Competencies.

Contract Duration

• Three-year fixed term appointment, with the possibility of renewal. Please note that our Rules and Regulations stipulate that the mandatory retirement age is 65.

What the OECD offers

• Monthly base salary starting from 10 652.77 EUR plus allowances, based on eligibility, exempt of French income tax.
• Please note that the appointment may be made at a lower grade based on the qualifications and professional experience of the selected applicant.

Process

All applications are screened based on the criteria for the position.  For candidates who are screened-in, written tests and/or video-recorded interviews are foreseen end-February/early March, and panel interviews are planned foreseen towards the end of March. A leadership assessment will also be requested by candidates in the final selection stage.

The OECD is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from 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. Our selection processes are merit-based; we strive to enhance diversity both from national and gender perspectives while running fair, transparent and competitive selection processes.

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

Learn more about what we offer and why the OECD is a great place to work.

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