UNCTAD is hiring a Director for Africa, Least Developed Countries and Special Programmes
UNCTAD is hiring a Director for Africa, Least Developed Countries and Special Programmes
UNCTAD is hiring a Director for Africa, Least Developed Countries and Special Programmes. The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is hiring a Director for Africa, Least Developed Countries and Special Programmes (D-2) in Geneva. This senior-level UN leadership role offers an opportunity to shape global development policies, drive capacity building, and promote economic transformation across Africa, LDCs, and other vulnerable economies. Apply before 5 November 2025.
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Background & Job Description
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), a core UN body under the Economic, Social and Development Job Network, is recruiting for the high-level position of Director for Africa, Least Developed Countries and Special Programmes (ALDC Division), D-2, based in Geneva, Switzerland.
The Division for Africa, LDCs and Special Programmes plays a critical role in advancing sustainable development policies, economic integration, and poverty reduction strategies for some of the world’s most vulnerable economies. This includes support for:
- African nations striving for industrialization and structural transformation.
- Least Developed Countries (LDCs) facing unique barriers to global market integration.
- Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) struggling with trade access limitations.
- Small Island Developing States (SIDS) vulnerable to climate change and global economic shocks.
- Other structurally weak, vulnerable, and small economies.
The Director will lead strategic policy development, international negotiations, and UNCTAD’s programmatic initiatives for these countries while reporting directly to the Secretary-General and Deputy Secretary-General of UNCTAD.
Key Tasks & Responsibilities
The selected candidate will oversee the Division on Africa, LDCs, and Special Programmes (ALDC) and perform the following:
- Provide visionary leadership and overall management of the Division.
- Guide policy research, analysis, and technical cooperation projects.
- Formulate recommendations for national and international economic policies.
- Drive capacity-building initiatives for sustainable trade and development.
- Represent UNCTAD in high-level intergovernmental and inter-agency forums.
- Supervise a diverse team of senior economic affairs officers, consultants, and technical experts.
- Strengthen partnerships with governments, international organizations, private sector, and civil society.
- Ensure effective integration of Africa and LDC priorities into UNCTAD’s global development agenda.
Qualifications
Education & Certifications
- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in economics, development studies, international relations, or related fields.
- A Ph.D. in economics, trade, or development would be considered an asset.
Professional Experience
- At least 15 years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, trade policy, or related fields.
- Demonstrated expertise in African economies, LDCs, LLDCs, or SIDS.
- Extensive leadership and management experience in international organizations or government.
- Proven record of policy formulation, intergovernmental negotiations, and multilateral engagement.
- Strong experience in capacity building, programme management, and donor coordination.
Languages
- Proficiency in English (both written and oral) is required.
- Knowledge of another UN official language (French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian, or Chinese) is desirable.
Additional Information
- Category & Level: Professional and Higher Categories – D-2.
- Duty Station: Geneva, Switzerland.
- Department/Office: UNCTAD – Division for Africa, LDCs and Special Programmes.
- Application Deadline: 5 November 2025.
- Job Opening ID: 263192.
- Contract Type: Fixed-term appointment with UN system benefits.
- Reports To: Secretary-General and Deputy Secretary-General of UNCTAD.
Why Apply?
This is a rare and prestigious leadership opportunity within the United Nations system for experienced professionals with deep expertise in trade, development, and economic policy. The position provides a global platform to:
- Influence international development policy at the highest level.
- Drive inclusive economic growth strategies for vulnerable countries.
- Collaborate with world leaders, policymakers, and development agencies.
- Contribute to the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications via the United Nations Careers Portal before the closing date: 5 November 2025.
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Disclaimer
This job post is a third-party summary and re-publication for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with UNCTAD or the United Nations. Always apply directly through the official UN Careers portal.
