Chief, Climate Change Section, P5

ResponsibleUs; Montreal (administrative region); Hybrid; CAD 119,000 - 154,000; Full time

Job summary

United Nations — International Civil Aviation Organization in Montreal seeks a senior leader to guide the Climate Change Section and direct CORSIA, SAF/LCAF, and ACT initiatives. The role requires steering complex policy development, coordinating with CAEP/TAB and CO2 reduction efforts while ensuring alignment with ICAO strategic goals.

This fixed-term appointment emphasizes leadership, collaboration with States, and regional engagement.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in environmental science, environmental policy, or related field.
• First-level degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be acceptable in lieu of advanced degree.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage work programmes to reduce aviation's environmental impact through policy development, MBMs, and CORSIA.
• Coordinate CORSIA implementation inputs to Council and key stakeholders; monitor CCR operations and data submissions.
• Oversee SAF/LCAF initiatives and harmonize global frameworks for cleaner energies and certification.
• Develop ICAO ACT programs and State Action Plans for CO2 reductions; organize regional/global events.
• Supervise the Climate Change Section to align with ICAO strategic goals and ensure efficient operations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education

Advanced degree in environmental science or related field

First-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience

Job description

Home / Jobs / Chief, Climate Change Section, P5

Chief, Climate Change Section, P5

United Nations — International Civil Aviation Organization · Montreal

Fixed-term Climate & Carbon Executive

Contract Fixed-term

Experience Executive

Closing Date October 19, 2026

Sector Climate & Carbon

Job Description

Org. Setting and ReportingThe Climate Change (CC) Section in the Air Transport Bureau is one of sections charged with delivering results with respect to ICAO’s Strategic Goal – Aviation is Environmentally Sustainable. The Section is responsible for the development of policies, conducting studies and providing guidance on measures to address aviation’s contribution to climate change toward the achievement of ICAO global aspirational goals, including Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), Lower Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF) and other aviation cleaner energies, market-based measures (MBMs) and Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), as well as cooperation on climate change with other United Nations bodies and international organizations. The Section is also responsible for supporting the development and implementation of ICAO Assistance, Capacity-building and Training (ACT) programmes including for CORSIA and State Action Plans on CO2 Emissions Reduction Activities and related assistance activities/projects for States. It also provides support to the Assembly, the Council and its subsidiary bodies, including the Climate and Environment Committee (CEC), Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) and Technical Advisory Body (TAB). The incumbent reports directly to the Deputy Director, Environment and Cleaner Energy (DD/ENV), from whom s/he seeks advice and guidance on complex, policy, technical and managerial issues. The incumbent, as Chief of the Section, supervises all Professional and General Service staff of the Section and is responsible for his/her actions and decisions as well as for the quality of services delivered by all staff members of the Section. The supervisory level includes technical supervision, coaching and training, as well as performance evaluation, delegation and distribution of tasks, and decision on priorities.

Responsibilities

Function 1 (incl. Expected results) Leads and manages work programmes related to ICAO global regulatory framework to reduce the adverse environmental impact of aviation greenhouse gas emissions on the global climate, achieving results such as:

• Take the lead in integrated, comprehensive and timely analysis, planning, delivery, assessment and reporting of climate change related projects and activities.
• Build and stimulate partnerships and cooperation with other international organizations, regional organizations and industry that result in combined efforts to address global climate change issues.
• Represent ICAO at UN and other UN agencies’ meetings, if required, enhancing recognition of ICAO leadership in climate change discussion.
• Supervise the development and timely delivery of outreach products related to international aviation and climate change.
• Ensure that civil aviation’s interests and specificities, as well as commitments to contributing to the reduction of the environmental impacts, are well reflected in international fora, such as United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Conferences of the Parties (COP).
• Closely monitor work of relevance to ICAO including on aviation cleaner energies, carbon markets, climate finance and environment‑related levies under the UNFCCC process and other international forums.
• Coordinate with Environmental Standards Section and Economic Development Branch regarding the analyses on environmental benefits and economic reasonableness, and the collection of environment‑related data.

Function 2 (incl. Expected results) Leads and manages work programmes to advance activities related to CORSIA implementation, achieving results such as:

• Ensure the timely provision of coordinated inputs to the Council and CEC by integrating various technical recommendations and inputs provided by CAEP, TAB etc, including for the development and maintenance of relevant Annex 16, Volume IV SARPs, associated guidance and tools related to CORSIA implementation.
• Ensure the operations of the ICAO CORSIA Central Registry (CCR), and coordinate with States and relevant stakeholders for timely submission and review of CO₂ emissions data and other information.
• Facilitate, monitor and report the progress for the implementation of CORSIA in accordance with Assembly Resolutions, Council Decisions and the relevant Annex 16, Volume IV SARPs and guidance.
• Coordinate the work to conduct quantitative environmental and economic impact assessments of MBMs, particularly in support of CORSIA periodic reviews and analyses on the demand, supply and cost of CEF and CEEU.
• Initiate and review results of studies and research related to policy, technical and institutional aspects of MBMs and CORSIA.
• Provide support to the governance and technical deliberative bodies of the Organization, including the Assembly, the Council, CEC, CAEP and TAB, with regard to CORSIA implementation.

Function 3 (incl. Expected results) Leads and manages work programmes to facilitate the development and deployment of SAF, LCAF and other aviation cleaner energies, in cooperation with Environmental Standards Section, achieving results such as:

• Coordinate the periodic review and update, and monitor the implementation of the ICAO Global Framework for SAF, LCAF and other aviation cleaner energies, including the harmonization of methodologies and sustainability criteria, and the promotion of globally recognized certification schemes, in line with the COSRIA regulatory framework.
• Initiate and follow‑up the need for harmonized guidance and SARPs for States to support the implementation of SAF, LCAF and other aviation cleaner energies.
• Develop and implement effective means to exchange information and best practices with States and international organizations on topics related to SAF, LCAF and other aviation cleaner energies.
• Stimulate cooperation with the relevant institutions on financing of initiatives for SAF, LCAF and other aviation cleaner energies.
• Coordinate and facilitate the work of the Secretariat and with relevant technical deliberative bodies of the Organization and international organizations to ensure the accurate accounting of aviation cleaner energies, as well as their effect on progress toward the ICAO long‑term global aspirational goal (LTAG) of net‑zero carbon emissions by 2050.
• Provide support to the governance and technical deliberative bodies of the Organization, including the Assembly, the Council, CEC, CAEP and TAB, with regard to SAF, LCAF and other aviation cleaner energies.

Function 4 (incl. Expected results) Leads and manages the implementation of ICAO Assistance, Capacity‑building and Training (ACT) programmes and State Action Plans initiative on CO2 emissions reduction activities, in cooperation with Environmental Standards Section, achieving results such as:

• Organize and implement ICAO’s assistance and capacity‑building activities under ACT‑CORSIA, including the development of training packages, and provision of hands‑on support to States, including on CORSIA Monitoring Reporting and Verification (MRV) for CO2 emissions, CEF and CEEU.
• Support ICAO’s assistance and capacity‑building activities under ACT‑SAF, including the development of training packages, and provision of hands‑on support to States, as well as support for regional seminars and global events.
• Support the planning, delivery, assessment and reporting of ICAO’s State Action Plans initiative on CO2 emissions reduction activities, and operationalization of ACT‑LTAG programme.
• Conduct open and productive lines of communication and relationships with ICAO Capacity Building and Implementation Bureau, Legal Affairs and External Relations Bureau and Regional Offices, as well as State authorities, international and regional organizations, industry and other stakeholders, to facilitate assistance agreements and partnerships.
• Organize regional seminars and global events to address the needs of States and provide technical assistance and capacity building support to States in need.

Function 5 (incl. Expected results) Supervises and manages the Climate Change Section, achieving results such as:

• Ensure alignment of the Section's activities with ICAO’s Strategic Goals, policies, regulations and business plans.
• Proactively identify and resolve issues that impede the effective and efficient conduct of the Section's activities.
• Develop and decide on section‑level business systems and practices that are in keeping with ICAO’s rules and policies, and that provide maximum support to the effective and efficient conduct of the Section’s operations.
• Effectively manage resources in the Section by encompassing all dimensions of management, including maximizing the performance of staff, teams and the contribution of external partners to ICAO activities, and succession planning.
• Integrate planning, execution and reporting processes related to cooperative activities with other Bureaux.
• Review and control working papers, reports, briefings, news releases and other deliverables.

Function 6 (incl. Expected results) Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Competencies

Professionalism: Extensive knowledge of international environmental policies and in particular those that related to climate change, ICAO Assembly Resolutions and Annex 16, as well as aviation cleaner energies and CORSIA and associated ICAO Assistance, Capacity‑building and Training (ACT) programmes. Broad knowledge of the generation and measurement of aircraft engine emissions and their impact on environment, including environmental aviation modelling and analyses. Excellent ability to use computers, latest software (including business intelligence tools) and contemporary networks. Familiarity in the use of project management tools, methods, processes and techniques. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two‑way communication; tailors language, tone, style, and format to match the audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Accountability: Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; operates in compliance with organisational regulations and rules; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable.

Leadership: Serves as a role model that other people want to follow: empowers others to translate vision into results; is proactive in developing strategies to accomplish objectives; establishes and maintains relationships with a broad range of people to understand needs and gain support; anticipates and resolves conflicts by pursuing mutually agreeable solutions; drives for change and improvements; does not accept the status quo; shows the courage to take unpopular stands; provides leadership and takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work; demonstrates knowledge of strategies and commitment to the goal of gender balance in staffing.

Managing Performance: Delegates the appropriate responsibility, accountability and decision‑making authority; makes sure that roles, responsibilities and reporting lines are clear to each staff member; accurately judges the amount of time and resources needed to accomplish a task and matches task to skills; monitors progress against milestones and deadlines; regularly discusses performance and provides feedback and coaching to staff; encourages risk‑taking and supports creativity and initiative; actively supports the development and career aspirations of staff; appraises performance fairly.

Building Trust: Provides an environment in which others can talk and act without fear of repercussion; manages in a deliberate and predictable way; operates with transparency; has no hidden agenda; places confidence in colleagues, staff members and clients; gives proper credit to others; follows through on agreed upon actions; treats sensitive or confidential information appropriately.

Education

An advanced level university degree (Masters’ degree or academic equivalent) in environmental science, environmental policy, environmental economics, aeronautical/environmental engineering, public administration, international affairs or related discipline is required.

A first‑level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience in environmental science, environmental policy, environmental economics, aeronautical/environmental engineering, public administration, international affairs, or related field, may be acceptable in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Job - Specific QualificationNot available.

Work Experience

Essential

• A minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience with accountability for work related to international aviation and climate change, within a national government, international organization, aviation or clean energy industry, and/or relevant research institution, is required.
• Demonstrated experience in addressing a range of technical and resource management issues in the context of environmental project implementation or assistance, is required.
• Experience in the provision of environment‑related assistance and support to State authorities, airports, airlines, etc., is required.

Desirable

• Experience with ICAO Annexes, policies and guidance material related to aviation environmental protection and energy (SAF, LCAF and other cleaner energies), is desirable.
• Experience in the development and implementation of aviation environmental protection and cleaner energy standards, recommended practices and specifications and/or aircraft environmental certification, is desirable.
• Experience in conducting negotiations at the international level and in organizing and leading international meetings, is desirable.

Required Languages

Language Reading Writing Listening SpeakingEnglish UN Level II UN Level II UN Level II UN Level I

AssessmentEvaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency‑based interview.

Special NoticeThe ICAO Assembly recently reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing gender equality and the advancement of women by supporting UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 "Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls." Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for ICAO positions, especially in the Professional and higher level categories. It should be noted that this post is to be filled on a fixed‑term basis for an initial period of 3 years (first year is probationary for an external candidate). ICAO staff members are international civil servants subject to the authority of the Secretary General and may be assigned to any activities or offices of the Organization, in accordance with the provisions of the ICAO service code. ICAO staff members are expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their status as international civil servants. In this connection, ICAO has incorporated the 2013 Standards of Conduct for the International Civil Service into the ICAO Personnel Instructions. ICAO offers an attractive benefit package to its employees in accordance with the policies of the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC). The statutory retirement age for staff entering or re‑entering service after 1 January 2014 is 65. For external applicants, only those who are expected to complete a term of appointment will normally be considered. Remuneration: Level P-5 Net Base Salary per annum USD $ 92,731 + Post Adjustment (net) per annum(*) USD $ 44,325 (*) Post Adjustment is subject to changeUnited Nations ConsiderationsIn accordance with ICAO Staff Regulations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Due regard shall be paid to the importance of recruiting staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible and ensuring equal gender representation. Subject to the foregoing, selection of staff members shall be made without distinction as to race, sex or religion, nor shall there be any discrimination on account of any disability of a candidate who meets the qualifications required to perform the tasks. Unless otherwise permitted under the ICAO Staff Regulations, appointment and promotion of staff members shall be made on a competitive basis. Candidates will not be considered for employment with ICAO if they have committed violations of international human rights law, violations of international humanitarian law, sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, or sexual harassment, or if there are reasonable grounds to believe that they have been involved in the commission of any of these acts. Candidates who have committed crimes other than minor traffic offences may not be considered for employment. Applicants are urged to follow carefully all instructions available in the online recruitment platform, Inspira. For more detailed guidance, applicants may refer to the Manual for the Applicant, which can be accessed by clicking on “Manuals” hyper‑link on the upper right side of the Inspira account‑holder homepage. The evaluation of applicants will be conducted on the basis of the information submitted in the application according to the evaluation criteria of the job opening and the applicable Staff Regulations and Rules, administrative issuances and guidelines. Applicants must provide complete and accurate information pertaining to their personal profile and qualifications according to the instructions provided in Inspira to be considered for the current job opening. No amendment, addition, deletion, revision or modification shall be made to applications that have been submitted. Candidates under serious consideration for selection will be subject to reference checks to verify the information provided in the application. Job openings advertised in Inspira will be removed at 11:59 p.m. (New York time) on the deadline date.No FeeICAO does NOT charge any fees or request money from candidates at any stage of the recruitment process, nor does it concern itself with bank account details of applicants. Requests of this nature allegedly made on behalf of ICAO are fraudulent and should be disregarded.

United Nations — International Civil Aviation Organization

Montreal

Climate & Carbon