The vacancy

We are currently recruiting for a Deputy Secretary-General (Programmes). This is an exceptional opportunity to join the Commonwealth and make a real difference to our family of sovereign states, assisting them in the fulfilment of the values and principles embodied in the Commonwealth Charter, and in the implementation of the Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

The Deputy Secretary-General (Programmes) advises and supports the Secretary-General in the management of the Secretariat around the assigned programmatic areas associated with the implementation of the Strategic Plan and with other mandates agreed by Heads of Government from time to time.

The Deputy Secretary-General (Programmes) has line responsibility for the following Divisions and Units in the Secretariat: Governance and Peace Directorate; Economic Development, Trade and Investment Directorate; Climate Change and Oceans Directorate; Social Development, Youth and Gender Directorate; and technical advice provided to the Commonwealth Small States Office, Geneva and the Joint Office for Commonwealth Permanent Missions to the United Nations, New York.

A strategic thinker, you will have clear evidence of at least 15 years of leading in a substantive senior executive role, with results delivered in areas of work relevant to this role. You will have a post-graduate degree in international relations, public administration, law or other fields relevant to this role. You will have a proven track record of achieving success within complex political and governmental settings and have substantial people management skills. Excellent financial management, communication and negotiation skills are vital, as is experience of working within different jurisdictions of the Commonwealth and experience of working with a diverse workforce.

We are the inter-governmental body of the Commonwealth, responsible for promoting democracy, development and respect for diversity amongst our 56 members. If you are a citizen of one of the Commonwealth countries, and keen to make a major contribution internationally, please apply now. Please refer to attached documents on our website for more information.  

This closing date for applications is Wednesday 4 June 2025 at 17:00 BST.