Deputy Executive Director – International Trade Centre

About the role

The International Trade Centre (ITC) is seeking a Deputy Executive Director to lead the operationalisation of its programmes and ensure alignment of human and financial resources with its mission of transforming trade and changing lives. Based in Geneva, the role supports the Executive Director and contributes to the development of ITC’s strategic direction.

Key responsibilities

• Direct and manage the operational delivery of ITC programmes, aligning resources to provide practical solutions for developing and transition economies.
• Contribute to the formulation of ITC’s overall strategies and policies, advising the Executive Director as needed.
• Provide leadership to Division Directors, overseeing administrative and technical divisions to optimise synergies and efficiencies.
• Oversee external audit activities, foster relationships with partners and intergovernmental bodies, and prepare reports for advisory committees and the General Assembly.
• Report on budget and programme performance to intergovernmental bodies, including bi‑annual and annual reports.
• Lead recruitment for the Office of the Executive Director, ensuring geographical and gender balance.
• Manage, guide and develop staff, promoting teamwork across organisational boundaries.
• Represent ITC at international, regional and inter‑agency meetings, providing substantive expertise on trade‑related issues.

Required profile

• Extensive knowledge of development economics, the international trading system and recent global trade trends.
• Strong understanding of results‑based management, project management and MSME development.
• Experience applying UN regulations, rules, policies and guidelines.
• Proven ability to produce high‑quality reports and policy papers.
• Demonstrated leadership and team‑building capabilities at senior‑management level.

Required skills