Fellowship Officer Vacancy at ITU: Join the Team Driving Telecommunications Development

Position Overview

• Vacancy Notice No: 1751
• Sector: BDT
• Department: DDR
• Country of Contract: Switzerland
• Duty Station: Geneva
• Position Number: TD22/P3/405
• Grade: P3
• Type of Contract: Fixed-term
• Duration of Contract: 2 years with a possibility of renewal
• Recruitment Open To: External Candidates
• Application Deadline: 19 November 2024 (Midnight Geneva Time)

About the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT)

The Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) plays a critical role in shaping the landscape of telecommunications globally. It focuses on:

• Developing and implementing policies and strategies that promote universal access to affordable, high-quality, and secure telecommunications and ICTs.
• Facilitating equitable and inclusive use of telecommunications to empower individuals and societies, driving sustainable development.

To efficiently serve Member States, BDT is divided into four main functional areas:

1. Operations Coordination Department (DDR)
2. Projects, Partnerships & Digital Skills Department (PPS)
3. Digital Networks & Environment Department (DNE)
4. Digital Knowledge Society Department (DKS)

The DDR is pivotal in ensuring operational readiness, supporting the functioning of Regional Offices and the Geneva HQ, and implementing various projects and programs. The Deputy to the Director oversees this department, managing personnel, financial, and operational planning processes.

Organizational Context

Under the supervision of the Deputy to the Director and Chief of the Department, the Fellowship Officer will manage and supervise all fellowship-related activities. This role encompasses accountability for the activities assigned and the overall output of the services provided.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Fellowship Officer will engage in a variety of tasks, including but not limited to:

1. Management of Fellowship Activities:
   • Direct the administration and implementation of fellowship programs.
   • Supervise staff involved in fellowship activities.
2. Focal Point for Fellowship Queries:
   • Serve as the primary contact for inquiries regarding fellowships awarded by ITU’s Bureaux and the General Secretariat.
   • Ensure that fellowship offers clearly state eligibility and selection criteria in invitation letters.
   • Monitor the administrative activities of fellowship beneficiaries and provide guidance to project officers.
3. Development of Working Procedures:
   • Establish clear procedures defining roles for stakeholders to ensure a transparent fellowship process.
   • Maintain an updated fellowship request form detailing candidate profiles and Member State needs.
4. Annual Fellowship Program Coordination:
   • Contribute to the annual establishment of a fellowship program that outlines ITU events and activities offering fellowship opportunities.
5. Eligibility Criteria Management:
   • Regularly update eligibility criteria based on Council recommendations.
   • Maintain an updated list of developing countries, including LDCs, SIDs, and LLDCs as per UN classifications.
6. Reporting:
   • Prepare annual reports for the Council and other entities detailing the number of fellowships awarded, demographics, and related expenses.
7. Website Development:
   • Assist in developing a dedicated fellowship website that serves as a repository for information related to ITU fellowships.
8. Participation in Selection Processes:
   • Act as a representative in the selection process, ensuring requests meet eligibility requirements.
9. Audit Coordination:
   • Serve as the focal point for audit matters, providing relevant information regarding fellowship awards.
10. Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Build and maintain effective relationships with various stakeholders, including Member State administrations, ministries, and UN bodies.

11. UN Inter-Agency Engagement:

• Participate in meetings addressing policies and procedures for fellowship administration and maintain connections with other UN organizations.

12. Additional Responsibilities:

• Perform any other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Core Competencies

Candidates for the Fellowship Officer role should demonstrate the following core competencies:

• Applying Expertise: Effectively utilize specialized knowledge in telecommunications and development.
• Effective Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively with diverse audiences.
• Learning and Knowledge Sharing: Foster a culture of continuous learning and knowledge exchange.
• Organizational Commitment: Show dedication to the ITU’s mission and values.
• Results-Focused: Maintain a strong orientation towards achieving impactful results.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Work effectively with colleagues and stakeholders to achieve common goals.

Functional Competencies

Successful candidates will exhibit strengths in:

• Analysis, Judgment, and Decision Making: Ability to make informed decisions through careful analysis.
• Client and Service Orientation: Commitment to providing exceptional service to all stakeholders.
• Innovation and Facilitating Change: Promote innovative approaches to improve existing processes.
• Leadership: Demonstrate leadership qualities in managing teams and projects.
• Networking and Building Partnerships: Establish and maintain beneficial relationships with stakeholders.
• Planning and Organizing: Efficiently manage tasks and resources to meet deadlines.

Technical Competencies

The ideal candidate should possess:

• Fellowship Administration Knowledge: Proven understanding of fellowship administration within the United Nations system.
• Understanding of UNDP Methods: Familiarity with UNDP working methods and processes.
• Software Proficiency: Ability to use and enhance various specialized software and tools, including customer relationship management systems and databases.

Qualifications Required

Education

• An advanced university degree in human resources management, law, political or social science, or a related field. Candidates with a recognized diploma equivalent to an advanced degree may also qualify. Internal candidates may substitute educational qualifications with relevant experience.

Experience

• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields, including at least two years at the international level. A Doctorate may substitute for two years of experience.

Language Proficiency

• Proficiency in one of the six official languages of the Union (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish) at an advanced level, with knowledge of a second official language at an intermediate level. Knowledge of a third language is a plus.

Benefits and Entitlements

Salary

The total annual salary consists of a net amount (before deductions) in US dollars, along with a post adjustment (PA) to reflect the cost of living. The PA is variable and may change according to UN Common System rates.

• Annual Salary: Starting from $64,121
• Post Adjustment: Approximately $59,953

For further information on allowances and benefits, please refer to the ITU Careers page.

Recruitment Process Information

All candidates are required to complete an online application, providing accurate and comprehensive information. To apply, visit the ITU Careers website.

This Fellowship Officer position at the ITU presents an exciting opportunity for a dedicated professional to make a significant impact in the field of telecommunications development. If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about facilitating equitable access to technology, we encourage you to apply and join our team in fostering sustainable development through ICTs.

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