Chief Operating Officer

About the OECD

The Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development (OECD) is an international organisation of 38 member countries whose mission is to build better policies for better lives. It promotes policies that improve economic and social well‑being worldwide and establishes evidence‑based international standards to address broad social, economic and environmental challenges.

About the Directorate for Corporate Operations (DCO)

The DCO manages OECD’s central operations, focusing on people and their well‑being, safety and security of staff, visitors and data, and the maintenance and sustainability of physical and digital infrastructure. It provides strategic corporate advice, risk management and compliance functions and drives operational efficiency of core corporate systems.

Position Overview

The OECD seeks a visionary Director to lead DCO. Reporting to the Secretary‑General, this senior executive will set strategic direction, manage the Digital, Knowledge and Information Service, the Conference, Security and Infrastructure Service, and the Human Resources Management Service. The role demands political sensitivity, strong collaboration skills and a proven track record in managing complex programmes and budgets.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead the Directorate in delivering the work programme in line with Member priorities and the OECD’s corporate services strategy.
• Shape strategic thinking, develop operations and management strategies, policies, business processes and solutions aligned with best practices.
• Drive continuous improvement in processes and delivery across corporate services and operations, maintaining systems at leading‑edge standards.
• Build trust‑based relationships with leadership across the Organisation to support collaboration and teamwork.
• Support the Office of the Secretary‑General by ensuring timely, effective information flows and advising on key priorities and risks.
• Identify emerging challenges and priorities, implement innovative solutions, and build strategic partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.

Management and Coordination

• Lead staff through merit‑based talent management and performance development.
• Ensure optimal use of resources and oversee cost‑recovery initiatives, promoting effective working methods and positive work environment.
• Build and lead a cohesive, multicultural and multidisciplinary team that exemplifies excellence, inclusion and diversity.
• Ensure effective coordination with the Office of the Secretary‑General, PBF and other policy directorates.
• Promote highest professional and ethical standards in line with the OECD’s Code of Conduct.

Qualifications

• Advanced university degree in Economics, Business Administration, Law or related field (MBA an advantage).
• More than 10 years’ experience in corporate management.
• Exceptional knowledge of corporate services, operational management and organisational governance.
• Proven record of senior‑level relations in a political decision‑making environment.
• Well‑established contacts with key players in relevant international communities.
• Deep understanding of DCO’s core areas: HR, IT, digital transformation and AI.
• Strong ability to collaborate across organisational boundaries and build effective partnerships.

Communication and Languages

• Fluency in one OECD official language (English or French); knowledge of the other is desirable.
• Additional languages are an asset.

Core Competencies

Executive Leadership staff are expected to demonstrate behaviours aligned to six core competencies: Vision and Strategy; Enable People; Ethics and Integrity; Collaboration and Horizontality; Achieve Results; Innovate and Embrace Change.

Contract & Compensation

• Three‑year fixed‑term appointment, with possibility of renewal.
• Closing date: midnight 31 July 2026 (CEST).
• Monthly base salary starting at €16 091, plus allowances (excluding French income tax).
• Mandatory retirement age is 67.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The OECD is an equal‑opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, irrespective of nationality, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability or beliefs. Selection processes are merit‑based and aim to enhance diversity across national and gender perspectives.