Job Overview
Deputy Secretary-General, ICSID (Washington, United States)
The World Bank Group (WBG) works towards a world free of poverty on a livable planet. As a global partnership and leading source of funding and knowledge for developing countries, we tackle development challenges worldwide, partnering across sectors and leveraging data for transformative change. The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), established in 1966, fosters private international investment by providing an impartial forum for State-investor disputes. Its Secretariat, including a Deputy Secretary-General, administers various arbitration and dispute settlement services, alongside offering technical assistance and maintaining an active publications program like the ICSID Review.
The Deputy Secretary-General Role at ICSID
The Deputy Secretary-General role at ICSID is unique, impactful, and high-profile. This leader supports the Secretary-General in developing strategic vision, ensures team delivery on objectives, and oversees operational management. In addition, in accordance with the ICSID Convention, the Deputy Secretary-General acts for the Secretary-General during their absence. This position, therefore, requires a dynamic leader with a deep understanding of international investment law and dispute resolution. They must also be capable of driving efficiency, innovation, and collaboration with external stakeholders and within the World Bank Group.
The Administrative Council elects the Deputy Secretary-General for a term of up to six years, based on the nomination by the World Bank President, who also chairs the Council. Prior consultation with Council members is, moreover, required before the nomination.
Remote Deputy Secretary-General
Key Responsibilities of a Deputy Secretary-General
As Deputy Secretary-General, you will handle various critical responsibilities:
- Strategy and Operations: Support strategic goal development, lead effective objective implementation, oversee operational management, and provide expert guidance on legal/institutional matters. Serve as Acting Secretary-General when required.
- Leadership and Talent: Provide thought leadership, oversee recruitment, coaching, performance evaluations, and staff career development. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, high-performing culture, modeling integrity and inclusive leadership.
- Resource Management: Ensure probity and economy in managing ICSID funds, prudently use resources aligned with WBG policies, and implement measures to enhance time and cost efficiency.
- Relationship Management: Advance ICSID’s mission through publications, media, and education. Additionally, develop and implement updated strategies for technical assistance. Furthermore, strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, representing ICSID with governments, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations.
Selection Criteria for Deputy Secretary-General
Candidate Profile:
- Legal Expertise: Requires demonstrable professional excellence and substantive legal expertise, including a law degree and bar admission in at least one jurisdiction.
- Experience: Possess a minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in academia, legal practice, arbitral institutions, and/or international organizations.
- ICSID Understanding: Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of ICSID’s activities and procedures, including applying the ICSID Convention, Rules, and Regulations.
- Investor-State Dispute Settlement: Show demonstrated expertise in investor-State dispute settlement law and practice, including relevant publications/presentations.
- Leadership & Management: Possess proven leadership and managerial skills, having successfully led diverse legal teams.
- Commitment: Display a strong commitment to ICSID’s and the World Bank’s mission.
- Organizational Progress: Drives organizational progress and change with systemic, future-focused thinking; furthermore, identifies and responds to client needs.
- Time Management: Manages multiple competing priorities effectively and timely.
- Team Motivation: Motivates teams to excel in a competitive international environment.
- Coaching & Mentoring: Manages, empowers, coaches, and mentors staff, providing straightforward feedback.
- Corporate Ethos: Models selflessness and corporate ethos, valuing teamwork and ICSID’s achievements.
- Communication: Possesses strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively discuss complex topics with diverse audiences.
- Professionalism: Exhibits professionalism, tact, and diplomacy, adeptly navigating complex matters.
- Ambassadorial Qualities: An approachable, energetic ambassador who inspires trust with internal and external stakeholders.
- Languages: Fluency in English is required; working knowledge of French, Spanish, or both is preferred.
Additional Information
The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life, and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave. Furthermore, we provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce. Consequently, we do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.
Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories.
Apply here: https://unjobs.org/vacancies/1753728298506
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: What is the term duration for the Deputy Secretary-General position? A: The Deputy Secretary-General is elected for a term of up to six years.
- Q: What languages are required and preferred for this role? A: Fluency in English is required. Working knowledge of French, Spanish, or both is preferred.
- Q: Where is this position located? A: This position is located in Washington, D.C., United States.
- Q: Does ICSID offer technical assistance and publications? A: Yes, ICSID provides technical assistance on investment dispute resolution and maintains an active publications program, including the ICSID Review.