Agency: The International Maritime Organisation (IMO)

Section/Division: Africa Section, Technical Cooperation Division

Contract Information: This is a Project post. It is fixed term (first year is probationary) with the possibility of further extensions subject to satisfactory performance and project funding/requirements.

Appointment: The appointment will be made by the Secretary-General of IMO in accordance with IMO procedures.

Special condition: This vacancy is open only to nationals of Kenya.

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Headquartered in London, is a specialised agency of the United Nations with global responsibility for the technical regulation of maritime transport. The Organisation also provides machinery for cooperation among Governments. The Council of IMO approved the establishment of a scheme for the promotion of IMO’s Regional Presence in selected developing regions, as a strategy of facilitating IMO’s input into national and regional development policies and providing active field-level participation in the development and execution of IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP). The Government of the Republic of Kenya and UNDP have offered to support the operations of IMO’s regional presence for East and Southern Africa. The Regional Coordinator will be located within the UNON compound in Nairobi while UNDP Nairobi shall be responsible for the IMO Regional Presence office.

The overall objective of the IMO Regional Presence is to establish a presence in selected developing regions, thereby facilitating IMO's input into national and regional development policies and providing active field-level participation in the development, execution and coordination of the delivery of IMO's Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP).

The incumbent will report to the Geographical Focal Point (GFP) under the immediate supervision of the Director, Technical Cooperation Division, and will undertake any duties assigned to him/her in connection with IMO's Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP). This will include, inter alia:

1. Tto identify maritime needs and priorities in conjunction with the relevant countries, institutions or networks for subsequent review and consideration by the GFP for integration into the ITCP;
2. To plan, coordinate in conjunction with the Principal Programme Assistant and ensure the delivery of IMO’s ITCP in the subregion under the direct supervision of the GFP;
3. To cooperate in capacity building programmes so as to achieve national/subregional execution of projects in the maritime sector;
4. To promote IMO’s technical competence, experience and comparative advantage during the formulation of country-specific United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) through active participation in the UN Country Teams (UNCT) activities with a view to aligning the delivery of the ITCP with relevant programmes in collaboration with UNDP
5. To assist in identifying potential funding sources at bilateral and multilateral levels;
6. Promote IMO’s Country Maritime Profiles (CMP) as a tool for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, and its alignment with national policies and strategies taking into account cross-cutting issues, UNCT’s work and the work of UNDAF;
7. To identify and establish good working relationships with key organizations and individuals in the subregion that deal with IMO and other maritime matters;
8. To represent the Organization as directed, at national, subregional and international meetings and conferences, to advice on relevant aspects of the work of IMO and of IMO’s ITCP;
9. To provide information for inclusion in documents on matters related to technical cooperation for presentation to the Assembly, Council, Technical Cooperation Committee, Economic Commissions, donor meetings, etc.;
10. To report on a regular basis to the GFP, including submission of quarterly and annual progress reports; and
11. To undertake any other tasks assigned either by the Director, TCD or the GFP.

1. Pragmatic attitude and sensitivity to the region’s cultural and other characteristics.
2. Thoroughness and excellent attention to detail in all responsibilities, ensuring consistency in delivery and implementation.
3. Ability to build consensus, collaboration, effective communication and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, at all levels including in an international, cross-cultural context.
4. Skills in facilitation and coordination of regional and national level technical assistance activities, resource mobilization and demonstrated ability to work in an independent manner.
5. Effective oral and written communication skills, ability to provide guidance and explain positions to a variety of audience.

Professional Experience
At least 10 years’ professional experience in the maritime field and demonstrated experience in project/programme implementation in developing countries. 

Education
University degree or equivalent academic qualifications in the maritime field and/or in the area of international development.
 

Language Skills
Complete proficiency in English, including excellent drafting, presentation and communication skills.
 

Other Skills
Project management combined with IT skills including advanced skills in MS Office applications. Wide knowledge of IMO’s regulatory framework and of its technical assistance programmes. An understanding of the challenges faced by developing countries in the implementation of IMO instruments and in the establishment, functioning and development of efficient maritime administrations, shipping and port services, marine pollution prevention and response, United Nations 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

IMO seeks to increase the number of women at all levels and women, particularly, are therefore invited to apply.  IMO will make every effort to facilitate the employment of persons with disabilities.