Functional responsibilities

Under the supervision and guidance of the Manager of the Sustainable Enterprises and Economies Programme, the Associate Programme Officer will support the consolidation and further expansion of the portfolio of training and learning activities on SME development with emphasis on productivity, innovation and digitalization. The Associate Programme Officer will support the development and delivery of international training activities that build an enabling ecosystem for productive and future-proof SMEs.  

 

The duties and responsibilities of the incumbent include the following:

• Select and summarize information in the areas of SME productivity, innovation and digitalization, as background information to specific training and learning activities.
• Undertake analysis of specific components and/or developments in the area of SME productivity, innovation and digitalization, both in terms of policy development and practical approaches.
• On the basis of identified training requirements, support the design of training activities in coordination with the relevant partners, preparing training proposals and sharing them with potential sponsors and clients.
• Support the assessment of the potential impact of proposed training activities on SME productivity, innovation and digitalization.
• Serve as an activity manager of training activities and projects, preparing cost estimates and monitoring of funds, coordinating the efforts and contributions of experts and resource persons.
• Coordinate the delivery of training courses, including distance education programmes, as a trainer, tutor, and facilitator.  
• Support the preparation of training materials and delivering training sessions on SME productivity, innovation and digitalization.
• Contribute technically to courses, seminars, experts meetings, field missions and working groups relevant to the SEE Programme.
• Support the development of on-line dynamic participative training methodologies and practices in accordance in order to improve the quality, appropriateness and impact of the programme’s training activities.
• Establish and maintain a roster of consultants, experts and resource persons relevant to courses and programmes in the technical area, and develop networks and cooperative arrangements with national and international institutions and agencies, United Nations organisations active in the technical programme area, and relevant ILO departments and offices.

Qualifications required

Education

Advanced university degree in business, social sciences, economics, management of development or other relevant field, and specialization in a technical field relevant to the theme.

Experience

At least three years of progressively responsible professional experience, of which at least two years at the international level in a development cooperation framework.

Working experience in a low or middle income country.

Experience in the organization, management and delivery of training.

At least two years of experience working on SME productivity, innovation and digitalization and demonstrated familiarity with relevant institutions and initiatives.

Languages

Excellent knowledge of either English or French with good knowledge of the other language.  Excellent knowledge of Arabic.

Core competencies

• Adaptability: ability to adapt to major changes in work tasks or in the work environment.
• Client Service: ability to meet in-house and external needs effectively.
• Collaboration: ability to develop and use collaborative relationships to achieve work goals.
• Communication: ability to convey information clearly to individuals and groups.
• Initiative: ability to take prompt action to accomplish objectives, even beyond what is required.
• Integrity: ability to maintain social, ethical and organisational norms and adhere to codes of conduct and ethical principles.
• Knowledge management: ability to develop and update professional knowledge continuously, and to assimilate and apply new job-related information in a timely manner.
• Sensitivity to diversity: ability to accommodate cultural and gender differences to interact effectively with people of different cultures.

Level competencies

• Decision-making: analysis and judgement/problem-solving.
• Managing work: ability to manage one’s time and resources effectively to ensure that work is completed efficiently.

Technical Competencies

• Full competence in using standard computer applications
• Knowledge of adult learning pedagogy and facilitation skills.

Additional Info

APPLICATIONS

All candidates must complete an online application form. To apply, please visit the ITCILO jobs webpage: https://www.itcilo.org/about/jobs

The System provides instructions for online application procedures.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 9 October 2026, close of business (CET).

No applications will be accepted after that date/time.

 

RECRUITMENT PROCESS

This vacancy is being filled by competition in accordance with Article 1.2 and Annex H of the Staff Regulations of the Centre.

The recruitment process, which may include a written test, interviews, and a competency-based assessment centre, will take place during the 3 months following the deadline for applications.

Short listed candidates will be notified via email and are requested to ensure their availability when provided with the recruitment process schedule. 

Depending on the location and availability of candidates, assessors and interview panel members, the Centre may use email and/or video or teleconference communication technologies for the assessment and evaluation of candidates at the different stages of the recruitment process, including assessment centres, technical tests, or interviews.

External candidates under serious consideration for appointment will be subject to reference checks to verify the information provided in the application.

 

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to the Staff Regulations and other relevant internal rules.

A successful candidate will be offered a Regular Budget, fixed-term contract of two years, which may be renewed, subject to a period of probation as established by the Staff Regulations. Recruitment is normally made at the initial step in the grade.

Any extension of contract beyond the probationary period is subject to satisfactory conduct and performance.

Salary and Post Adjustment, grade P.2 in US$, per year (subject to revision by the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC)):

Salary: minimum US$ 56,046 to maximum US$ 74,640
Post adjustment multiplier for Turin, Italy (subject to change):
Minimum US$ 15,748.93
Maximum US$ 20,973.84
In case the official qualifies for a spouse benefit allowance, the above salary increases by 6% of the applicable grade and step.

Other allowances and benefits subject to specific terms of appointment:

Children's allowance
Children's education grant
Pension and health insurance schemes
30 working days annual leave
Settling in grant
Entitlement to removal expenses
Repatriation grant (after 5 years of service)
Home-leave travel with eligible dependants every two years
Rental subsidy
Privileges and immunities granted by the Italian Government

Salaries and emoluments are exempt from taxation by the Italian authorities and so, on the basis of the international agreements or national law relating to presence or residence abroad, are generally exempt from taxation by other governments. In the absence of exemption, in most cases tax paid will be reimbursed.