Secretary of the Board and Chief

About the role

The Secretary of the Board and Chief supports the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) within the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Based in Vienna, this senior position provides strategic, diplomatic and administrative leadership to implement the Board’s mandate under international drug control treaties.

Key responsibilities

• Support the INCB in developing and executing activities to fulfil treaty obligations.
• Implement Board decisions, act on its behalf between sessions, and coordinate execution of mandates.
• Negotiate and maintain relations with governments, facilitating diplomatic actions to promote treaty compliance.
• Advise governments on technical treaty implementation and assess compliance.
• Represent the Board at international, regional and national meetings, providing substantive expertise on drug control issues.
• Lead the INCB Secretariat, formulate its work programme, oversee activities, and ensure timely delivery.
• Supervise staff, review drafts, and ensure high‑quality outputs.
• Prepare and coordinate reports for intergovernmental bodies, including budget and programme performance.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in international diplomacy, treaty implementation, or related fields.
• Strong knowledge of the three international drug conventions and UN drug control mechanisms.
• Proven ability to negotiate with governments and international organisations.
• Excellent analytical and reporting skills.
• Leadership experience managing a multi‑disciplinary secretariat.

Required skills