World Meteorological Org is looking for a Secretary of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

Position title: Secretary, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), D-2 (Fixed-Term - 2 years)

Location: Geneve, Switzerland

Job Identification: 32682

Posting Date: 03/17/2026, 09:51 AM

Apply Before: 04/16/2026, 10:59 PM

Department: Secretariat of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

Agency: World Meteorological Org

Grade: D2

Vacancy Type: Fixed Term

Background

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) provides governments at all levels with the most up-to-date, robust scientific information to help them develop climate policies. Created in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), IPCC reports are a key input into international climate change negotiations. As an intergovernmental entity, IPCC is made up of members of the United Nations or WMO, totalling 195 countries.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direct administrative supervision of the Deputy Secretary-General of WMO, the incumbent will serve the Members of the IPCC and work with the Chair of the IPCC on the implementation of the work programme and budget of the IPCC. The specific responsibilities include:

Secretariat and the Technical Support Units:

• Supervise the staff in and be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the IPCC Secretariat;
• Provide guidance to the Technical Support Units of the IPCC Working Groups and Task Forces, and facilitate coordination between the activities of the Secretariat and the Technical Support Units.

Sessions of the IPCC and its bodies:

In consultation with the Chair of the IPCC:

• Negotiate with host governments to arrange for the meetings of the IPCC and of its Bureau, the Executive Commmittee, Working Groups and various working mechanisms;
• Efficiently and effectively plan, coordinate, finalize and distribute pre-session and in-session documentation for the sessions of the IPCC and its Bureau in a timely manner;
• Plan the management and effectively conduct the business of meetings of the IPCC, the Bureau and the Executive Committee;
• Deliver accurate and timely reports of the sessions of the IPCC plenary and its Bureau; and
• Prepare documentation on the IPCC Work Programme and Budget for the sessions of the IPCC and as needed for the sessions of the IPCC Bureau;

Finance:

• Manage and monitor the expenditures of the Trust Fund in accordance with the relevant regulations, rules and policies and in accordance with the decisions of the Panel;
• Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting of the Trust Fund’s activities and financial position;
• Develop and present budget estimates to the Panel in line with Panel decisions;
• Facilitate and support financial audit activities associated with the Trust Fund;
• Ensure internal controls within the purview of the IPCC Secretariat are sufficient and effective;
• Carry out fund-raising activities in accordance with the directives of the Panel and the IPCC Financial Procedures;

IPCC products:

• Arrange for the translation and publication of the IPCC products in coordination with the Technical Support Units, as appropriate;

Liaison:

• Oversee the implementation of the IPCC communication strategy and the information management for the IPCC;
• In consultation with the Chair of the IPCC, liaise with relevant Multilateral Environmental Agreements, including the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), as well as related international assessment bodies and scientific programmes, and arrange IPCC representation at the meetings of such bodies, as appropriate;
• Maintain close interaction with the management and relevant offices of both the UNEP and WMO to enable smooth and effective implementation of the day-to-day functions of the IPCC Secretariat;
• If requested, arrange for appropriate senior level reporting to IPCC’s co-sponsor governing bodies;

Developing/transitional economy countries:

• Promote the participation of developing countries in the work of the IPCC; and
• Carry out other relevant duties as required.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

A Master’s degree or equivalent in a field that falls within the scope of IPCC’s scientific assessments

Experience:

• At least 15 years of progressive leadership experience in national and international organizations or at a recognized scientific body.
• Demonstrated success in managing scientific programmes and engaging with scientists of the highest calibre.
• Proven experience managing relationships within and between international organizations.

Other Requirements:

• Excellent managerial and supervisory skills, including budget planning and control, change management, resource mobilization and project management skills.
• A well-developed capacity for planning, organizing and managing complex international programmes.
• Proven ability to develop projects and attract funds for their implementation. Leadership ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and provide motivation and inspiration to staff.
• Proven track record in managing multi-disciplinary and cross-cutting programmes.
• Familiarity with the working practices of international organizations, preferably those within the UN system.
• Maturity of judgment, initiative, creativity, excellent interpersonal and communication skills both orally and in writing.

Languages:

• Excellent knowledge of English (both oral and written). Knowledge of other official languages of the Organization would be an advantage.
• (Note: The official languages of the Organization are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.)

Competencies

The Secretary, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change must demonstrate managerial-level proficiency in the following competencies:

• Communication & Influence
• Collaboration & Team Dynamics
• Inclusive Mindset & Cultural Awareness
• Decision Making & Problem Solving
• Integrity & Accountability
• Innovation & Digital Agility
• Stakeholder Understanding & Engagement

Salary and Allowances

The position is funded from regular budget.

• Annual net base salary on initial appointment is: US$130,477
• Annual post adjustment on initial salary is: US$118,082 (in addition to the net base salary)

Additional Information:

WMO is committed to achieving diversity and a balanced workforce. Applications are welcome from qualified women and men, including those with disabilities. The statutory retirement age is 65. Pursuant to WMO Standing Instructions, the minimum age to be eligible for consideration for vacant positions is 18, and the maximum age must enable the candidate to serve for at least the term of the contract before reaching mandatory age of separation.

Probation

Possibility of renewal subject to the availability of funds and pending satisfactory performance after an initial probationary period of one year which can be extended up to a maximum of two years.

Applications:

Applications should be made online through the WMO e-recruitment system.

Do not send your application via multiple routes. WMO no longer accepts applications via post or email. Only applicants for whom WMO has a further interest will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates may be required to sit a written test and/or an interview.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

WMO does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.

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