1. Organizational Context


a. Organizational Setting

The post is located in the Academic Institutions and Executive Program (AIEP) of the WIPO Academy in the Regional and National Development Sector.

The WIPO Academy is the core entity in WIPO for training and capacity-building activities, particularly for developing countries, LDCs and countries with economies in transition. The Academy acts as an in-house center of excellence on training, including professional training; a catalyst for networks and partnerships to expand the range and impact of training opportunities at the national level; an open-access online clearinghouse of information on all WIPO training activities, tools and services; and a hub of virtual network of partners, experts and teachers in development-oriented IP training. Beneficiaries of the WIPO Academy services include decision-makers, government officials, members of national intellectual property offices and societies for collective management of copyright and related rights, intellectual property practitioners, academics, students and other stakeholders.

The Academic Institutions and Executive Program facilitates access to higher education in IP, in particular through support for joint master's programs, advice and assistance to academic institutions and partnership with them, and the provision of scholarships. In addition, this Program seeks to build practical IP skills and capacity for government officials and professionals in the public and private sector through its Executive Training Program. It also offers IP learning opportunities for academics, researchers and students through the organization of colloquia and summer schools.


b. Purpose Statement

The incumbent provides overall strategic direction, coordination and management to support the achievement of the expected results of the Program, and manages the team and resources to initiate, organize and supervise the educational and training programs under the Program, carried out in partnership with other institutions, which includes master's degree programs and the building of IP practical skills capacity through the Executive Training Program and the WIPO Summer Schools Program.

c. Reporting Lines

The incumbent works under the supervision of the Executive Director of the WIPO Academy.

d. Work Relations

The incumbent liaises with relevant government institutions, including national IP offices, and universities in view of preparing, implementing and evaluating educational and training programs. They have regular contact with government officials, tutors, and IP experts.


2. Duties and Responsibilities

The incumbent will perform the following principal duties:

a. Lead, plan, and control the Program’s work and budget, determining overall strategic direction and priorities and allocating resources for the completion and timely and quality delivery of work products in accordance with results-based management principles; manage funds-in-trust.

b. Manage staff and resources of the Program and supervise their work; provide regular feedback on performance; conduct performance evaluation meetings and ensure timely finalization of performance evaluation exercises; follow up on recommendations/issues identified.

c. Develop and implement a plan to ensure an appropriate regional balance of institutions and countries for the master's degree, summer schools and other training programs in the field of IP; ensuring a focus on national and regional needs; provide expert advice and recommendations to the Executive Director on potential activities and formulate priorities.

d. Organize and oversee the organization and implementation of education and training programs and other activities such as international and regional events for IP education and research; coordinate with partner institutions to ensure the successful implementation of programs jointly offered.

e. Develop a network of partnerships, scholarships and advisory services, making use of ICT platforms to share knowledge and experience.

f. Identify, initiate, and develop measures to strengthen institutional relations and partnerships with countries, universities, and other institutions to enhance cooperation and bring the WIPO Academy's services and activities to the attention of a broader audience.

g. Initiate, develop, and maintain contacts with authorities of concerned countries and partner institutions, providing advice on the organization and planning of training programs and other related activities.

h. Represent the Organization at meetings, conferences, and other events, providing authoritative advice and recommendations in the area of IP education and training; take part in teaching undertakings, deliver lectures and give presentations.

i. Perform other duties as required.


3. Requirements

Education (Essential)

Advanced university degree with a specialization in intellectual property or a related discipline.


Experience (Essential)

At least ten years of international professional experience in the field of intellectual property.

Experience working with higher educational institutions in the field of intellectual property.

Experience in the design and implementation of intellectual property training programs.


Language (Essential)

Excellent written and spoken knowledge of English.


Job Related Competencies (Essential)

Excellent knowledge of WIPO, the international IP system, and the landscape of IP higher education, training, and skills development in Member States.

Excellent managerial skills with the ability to provide strategic leadership and motivate staff.

Sound political judgment and the capacity to work well with a range of actors including WIPO stakeholders and universities.

Ability to represent the Organization and provide authoritative advice and expertise in the area of IP higher education.

Sound analytical and conceptual skills.

Ability to cultivate innovation and manage change; proactive in developing strategies to accomplish objectives and accountability in delivering results.

Competent user of Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint, digital competence and data literacy, including the ability to work with databases and adapt quickly to new systems and software.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and ability to maintain effective partnerships and working relations in a multi-cultural, environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.