INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION
ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies, with the mission to connect the world. To achieve this, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communication systems.
Head, Conferences and Events Technology Services Division
Vacancy notice no: 2056
Sector: SG
Department: ISD
Country of contract: Switzerland
Duty station: Geneva
Position number: IS09/P5/642
Grade: P5
Type of contract: Fixed-term
Duration of contract: 2 years with possibility of renewal
Recruitment open to: External
Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 18 August 2025
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT
The General Secretariat directs administrative, human and financial resources and activities of the Union, including the implementation of the provisions of the administrative regulations on operational questions, the dissemination of information on telecommunication/ICT matters for operational and other purposes, and the provision of legal advice to the whole of the Union. The General Secretariat coordinates the implementation of the Strategic Plan, monitors the telecommunication/ICT environment and recommends as needed action relating to the Union’s future policies and strategy. The General Secretariat ensures inter-sectoral coordination and cooperation to advance a whole of ITU approach (One-ITU) in headquarters and the field. The General Secretariat provides logistical and information technology support to the Union’s activities including conferences and global forums; the coordination of the work of the Union with the United Nations system, and other international organizations; and the engagement of the Member States, Sector Members, and Academia. The General Secretariat manages corporate governance, and strategic communications and relations with the media, different stakeholder groups as well as the general public.
Within the General Secretariat, the Information Services Department (IS) is the focal point for the ITU information technology services, managing ERP, CRM, documents, information systems and infrastructure, service-desk, library, archives and information management services, safety and security (both physical and logical), to support staff both at Headquarters and in the Field, as well as delegates attending conferences, meetings and events world-wide. It also promotes ICT collaboration, partnerships and information-sharing and represents ITU in inter-organization meetings and committees related to information technology and security management.
ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT
The Head, Conferences and Events Technology Services reports to the Chief of Information System Department (ISD). He/She plays a pivotal role at ITU, overseeing the planning, implementation, and management of all technological aspects of ITU conferences and events. This position provides visionary leadership and strategic direction, ensuring that ITU’s conference technology infrastructure remains cutting-edge and aligned with the organization’s goals. This role is critical in ensuring the smooth operation of all conference technology systems and services, including audiovisual equipment, virtual conferencing platforms, network infrastructure, and related support applications. The incumbent fosters continuous improvement and innovation in conference technology, enhancing delegates' experience and optimizing ITU’s operational efficiency. Working closely with multiple ITU stakeholders across different departments, the incumbent ensures seamless integration of conference technologies and alignment with organizational needs, while leading the troubleshooting and resolution of technical issues during conferences, ensuring business continuity, minimizing disruptions, and upholding the organization's reputation for excellence.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The incumbent will:
- Lead the CTS Division by aligning its work with the organization’s goals and objectives. Provide intellectual, strategic and operational leadership to members of the Division. Advise the Chief Information Officer of ISD and participate in the elaboration of the IT strategy, particularly as it relates to technology solutions and services for conferences. Develop the Divison’s annual work plan in alignment with ITU’s strategic objectives. Assist the team in developing their workplans, defining objectives in line with the “SMART” framework, managing performance and being accountable for the Division’s deliverables. Foster teamwork and communication among staff within the Division/Department and across organizational boundaries.
- Manage conference technology support for the four modalities of ITU meetings: physical, virtual, physical with remote participation, and physical with webcast. This includes audiovisual (AV) support in meeting rooms, interpretation systems (onsite, remote, hybrid, AI), signage and display of the meeting schedule, wired and wireless connectivity, Internet access, remote participation, webcast, captioning and technical support. For events held abroad, plan, organize and manage local teams of IT, service desk support, audiovisual and contractors’ staff in collaboration with the departments responsible for the event.
- Prepare, elaborate and negotiate Host Country Agreements (HCA) related to ICT and AV services for ITU conferences and events worldwide. This includes performing site surveys of the local ICT and audiovisual infrastructure, wired and wireless LAN connectivity, Internet access, meeting room configurations, AV and interpretation equipment, power and cooling infrastructure., and liaising with the local ICT and AV coordinator to implement the necessary as defined in the ICT and AV annex of the HCA. Exercise the proper diplomacy to obtain the best conditions for the event while keeping in mind the interests of both the Host Country and ITU.
- Ensure business continuity of CTS services through Service Level Agreement (SLA) and risks management. Ensure that key stakeholders are informed of the CTS service request procedures and provide training on disaster recovery procedures as required.
- Actively support and drive digital transformation in conference management by leading the adoption of emerging technologies—including AI-driven tools and best-of-breed solutions—to enhance the overall conference experience and improve operational efficiency. Examples include the integration of AI-based interpretation, automated captioning, smart scheduling, real-time analytics, and digital engagement platforms. Collaborate with project stakeholders to translate business requirements into ICT solutions, working closely with other ISD divisions, peer departments, host country teams, and contractors to deliver effective and innovative support.
- Support cross-department projects within the Division’s area of responsibilities. Participate in various committees as a representative of CTS, as required. Assist the Chief Information Officer of ISD in reporting ISD activities to the Governing Body and in supporting UN wide initiatives such as accessibility, sustainability, and others.
- Manage the LAN infrastructure and Internet connectivity at ITU's conference venues-both at headquarters and in the field-ensuring a robust and reliable technical foundation to support seamless conferencing and event operations.
- Prepare and oversee the Division's budget, monitor financial expenditures, and proactively address budgetary needs, such as managing staff contract renewals and assist in identifying funding for unexpected projects. Manage CTS procurements, including conducting needs assessments and benchmarks, and preparing procurement related documents as needed.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
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CORE COMPETENCIES
Applying Expertise; Effective Communication; Learning and Knowledge Sharing; Organizational Commitment; Results-Focused, and; Teamwork and Collaboration.
FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIES
TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
- Proven experience in a technical management role related to conference technologies.
- Strong knowledge of audiovisual and interpretation systems (human and AI), web-conference platforms and hybrid meeting solutions.
- Strong hands-on experience with audio-visual and conferencing systems.
- Ability to assess the limitations and capabilities of technical staff and provide realistic solutions.
- Excellent leadership, project and time management skills.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to remain composed under pressure.
- Effective communicator with both technical teams and non-technical stakeholders.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
Education:
Advanced university degree in in computer science, systems management or a related field OR education from a reputed college of advanced education with a diploma of equivalent standard to that of an advanced university degree in one of the fields above. For internal candidates, a first university degree in one of the fields above in combination with fifteen years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree for promotion or rotation purposes.
Experience:
At least ten years of progressively responsible experience in managing and providing technical services for events, including at least five at the international level. A Doctorate in a related field can be considered as a substitute for three years of working experience.
Experience working in cross-functional teams and collaborating with stakeholders in support of physical, virtual and hybrid conferences, events and meetings.
Languages:
Knowledge of one of the six official languages of the Union (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish) at advanced level and knowledge of a second official language at intermediate level. Knowledge of a third official language would be an advantage. (Under the provisions of Resolution No. 626 of the Council, a relaxation of the language requirements may be authorized in the case of candidates from developing countries: when candidates from such countries possess a thorough knowledge of one of the official languages of the Union, their applications may be taken into consideration).
BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS
Salary:
Total annual salary consists of a net annual salary (net of taxes and before medical insurance and pension fund deductions) in US dollars and a post adjustment (PA) (cost of living allowance). The PA is variable and subject to change without notice in accordance with the rates as set within the UN Common System for salaries and allowances.
Annual salary from $ 101,540 + post adjustment $ 82,654
Other allowances and benefits subject to specific terms of appointment, please refer to: https://jobs.itu.int/content/What-we-offer/?locale=en_US
INFORMATION ON RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU Careers website. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. ITU uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Messages originating from a non ITU e-mail account - @itu.int - should be disregarded. ITU does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
ITU applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization. Achieving gender balance is a high priority for ITU.
