Organization: International Trade Centre
Location: GENEVA
Level: PD - P-4
Job Family: PGM
Application Deadline: 21 November 2026 at 04:59 UTC
Job Opening Number: 26-Programme Management-UNJSPF OIM-285022-J-GENEVA (X)

Apply via: UN Inspira Portal

Org. Setting and Reporting

The International Trade Centre (ITC) mandate is: "Transforming trade. Changing lives." By enabling trade-led economic development, especially in the Global South, ITC enables small businesses to reach their potential and strengthens ecosystems for long-term impact. The Office of the Executive Director provides strategic leadership for the development and management of the organization. It coordinates the corporate work programme through preparation and monitoring of ITC's Business Plan and the key functions of evaluation, resource mobilization and corporate communications.

Objectives of Fellowship

This Fellowship opportunity is in collaboration with the Mo Ibrahim Foundation. Established in 2006, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation aims to promote good governance and develop future African leaders through mentorship, professional development and leadership opportunities. The Foundation works to:

Stimulate debate on good governance;
Provide criteria by which citizens and governments can measure progress;
Recognize achievement in African leadership and provide a practical way in which leaders can build positive legacies on the continent when they have left office;
Support and develop the next generation of African leaders.

The Fellowship offers a mentorship experience with the Executive Director and Deputy Executive Director of ITC to prepare young Africans for leadership of major organizations and multilateral institutions.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision and guidance of the Chief Advisor to the Executive Director the successful Fellow will:

Contribute to the creation and implementation of strategic assignments related to trade development including private sector issues and specific challenges of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs);
Carry out applicable research as required;
Contribute to the design, development and implementation of strategies for effective Public- Private-Partnerships (PPPs) and generation of resources;
Participate in high-level discussions and preparation of applicable briefing notes and working documentation as required;
Undertake other duties as assigned and required.

Competencies

PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge of international trade development and trade-related development assistance (TRTA). Knowledge of strategic planning and governance. Strong research and writing skills. Ability to analyze and interpret complex concepts and data. Ability to effectively communicate and interact with individuals at all levels and from diverse multicultural backgrounds. Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to the sector, functional area or other specialized field. Ability to identify, analyze and contribute to the resolution of issues and problems. Ability to conduct data collection using various methodologies. Conceptual, analytical and evaluative skills to conduct independent research and analysis, including familiarity with and experience in the use of various research sources, including electronic sources, the internet, intranet and other databases. Ability to apply sound judgment in the context of assigned tasks, plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. Shows pride in work and achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; and remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
COMMITTMENT TO CONTINUOUS LEARNING: Keeps abreast of new developments in own occupation/profession; actively seeks to develop oneself professionally and personally; contributes to the learning of colleagues and subordinates; shows willingness to learn from others; seeks feedback to learn and improve.

Education

Master's degree in economics, business, international development, international relations or related area is required.

Job - Specific Qualification

Successful completion of both degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics or data science programs is desirable.

Work Experience

Minimum seven years of relevant work experience is required. Experience in international trade development and trade related development assistance (TRTA) is desirable. Experience of strategic planning and governance, particularly in a government, international institution or private company is desirable. Experience in research and writing on "trade related topics" in Africa is desirable. Experience in working with projects related to regional integration or SMEs in Africa is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is required. Either French or Spanish is desirable. The table below shows the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework (please consult https://languages.un.org for details).

Required Languages

English — Reading: UN Level III; Writing: UN Level III; Listening: UN Level III; Speaking: UN Level III

Desirable Languages

French — Reading: UN Level II; Writing: UN Level II; Listening: UN Level I; Speaking: UN Level II
Spanish — Reading: UN Level II; Writing: UN Level II; Listening: UN Level II; Speaking: UN Level II

Assessment

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.

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International Trade Centre is looking for a Mo Ibrahim Fellow, Office of the Executive Director