OVERVIEW
Position Number: CLT 001
Grade: ADG
Parent Sector: Culture Sector (CLT)
Duty Station: Paris
Job Family: Culture
Duration of contract: 2 years, renewable
Recruitment open to: Internal and external candidates
Application deadline (Midnight Paris Time): 03-MAR-2026
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism
https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000386038
ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT
The Culture Sector plays a central role in UNESCOโs mission to promote the role of culture, heritage and creativity as a global public good and an important enabler of sustainable economic and social development, a source of knowledge and resilience and a vector for dialogue and cooperation. It supports Member States in implementing UNESCOโs six cultural conventions as platforms for advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, addressing the challenges posed by conflicts, climate change and natural disasters on culture.
OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST
Under the authority of the Director-General, the Assistant Director-General for Culture provides strategic leadership, intellectual vision and managerial oversight for UNESCOโs Culture Sector (Major Programme IV). The incumbent is responsible for the formulation and implementation of the Sectorโs overall strategy, ensuring that UNESCO remains the global leader in the field of culture.
Working closely with other Assistant Directors-General, the incumbent fosters transversal collaboration across sectors, ensuring that culture is fully integrated into UNESCOโs broader programme delivery, particularly in relation to education, the sciences, communication and information.
KEY ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Assistant Director-General for Culture will:
Long Description
Provide strategic direction and leadership in the formulation, implementation and monitoring of the Culture Sectorโs strategy, policies and programmes, as approved by the governing bodies. Promote the role of culture, heritage and creativity as enablers of sustainable social and economic development, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Lead the implementation of UNESCOโs cultural conventions and other normative instruments, supporting Member States in translating global frameworks into concrete national actions and strengthening international cooperation. Oversee the protection, conservation and transmission of cultural heritage. Foster creativity and the diversity of cultural expressions, strengthening cultural and creative industries as drivers of inclusive growth and innovation.Long Description
Enhance the Culture Sectorโs contribution to conflict prevention, crisis response and recovery, ensuring that culture and heritage are protected in emergencies and integrated into humanitarian and peacebuilding strategies. Develop and maintain high-level partnerships with Member States, United Nations entities, development banks, private sector and philanthropic organizations to expand the Sectorโs reach and impact. Promote innovation and knowledge sharing, anticipating emerging trends and harnessing digital technologies for cultural preservation and access. Represent the Director-General and UNESCO in high-level international fora and intergovernmental meetings, strengthening UNESCOโs visibility, influence and thought leadership in the cultural field. Ensure effective management and accountability, fostering a culture of performance, transparency and diversity across the Sector.
Long Description
For further information on the specific above-mentioned programmes, candidates may consult our website: https://www.unesco.org/en, and/or the following documents: 41 C/4 (UNESCOโs Medium-Term Strategy for 2022 โ 2029) and 43 C/5 (Draft UNESCOโs Programme and Budget for 2026 โ 2029 quadrennium).
COMPETENCIES - Core (C) & Managerial (M)
Communication (C) Accountability (C) Innovation (C) Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement (C) Planning and organizing (C) Results focus (C) Teamwork (C) Building partnerships (M) Driving and managing change (M) Strategic thinking (M) Making quality decisions (M) Managing performance (M) Leading and empowering others (M)Short Description
For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
Advanced university degree (Masterโs or equivalent) in a discipline related to the field of culture.
WORK EXPERIENCE
At least 15 years of progressively responsible relevant professional experience from senior leadership/executive positions in areas directly related to UNESCOโs Culture Programme, including assignments at the regional and/or international levels. Proven record of leadership in developing and implementing policies, programmes or international frameworks in areas related to culture. Demonstrated experience in leading large, diverse teams and managing organizational transformation, including change management and strategic planning. Substantial experience representing an organization and engaging effectively with high-level government/international officials.Long Description
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
Knowledge of, and commitment to, the Organizationโs mandate, vision, strategic directions and priorities. Strong and innovative leadership, capable of articulating a compelling vision for the role of culture. Strong political acumen and diplomatic skills to represent UNESCO effectively and engage high-level stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to lead institutional transformation, manage change and foster a culture of accountability, diversity and performance. Strong ability to interact effectively at the highest governmental levels, as well as with leaders of the private sector and civil society, and to mobilize resources and to build collaborative partnerships and networks with and between a wide variety of stakeholders. Excellent communication skills with strong representational abilities.
LANGUAGES
Excellent knowledge and drafting skills in one of the working languages of the Organization (English or French).
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
A Ph.D. level degree in the field of culture or other related areas.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Awareness and knowledge of UNESCOโs strategic objectives and of wider processes within the United Nations system.Long Description