IUCN is a membership Union uniquely composed of both government and civil society organisations. It provides public, private and non-governmental organisations with the knowledge and tools that enable human progress, economic development and nature conservation to take place together. Created in 1948, IUCN is now the world's largest and most diverse environmental network, harnessing the knowledge, resources and reach of more than 1,600 Member organisations and around 18,000 experts. It is a leading provider of conservation data, assessments and analysis.
IUCN's Programme 2026–2029 places digital transformation, data stewardship and technology-enabled collaboration at the heart of the organisation's ambition to remain the trusted, science-led voice for nature. The Union's global reach — spanning headquarters in Gland, Switzerland, multiple regional offices, six expert Commissions, and a distributed network of thousands of members and partners — demands a coherent, modern and secure digital infrastructure.
As part of this strategic commitment, IUCN is hiring its new Director, Global Information Systems to lead the organisation's Information Technology and Digital Transformation function. The role will serve as the principal technology executive, accountable to the Director General for defining and delivering an IT strategy that advances IUCN's conservation mission, enhances operational efficiency, and positions the Union as a digital-first organisation.
The Director, GISG is responsible for setting and executing the strategic vision for information technology, data governance and digital innovation across the IUCN Secretariat. The role leads a global IT function covering systems architecture, cybersecurity, data management, digital platforms, and user-facing technology services — all in alignment with the IUCN Programme 2026–2029 and the broader Union's 20-year Strategic Vision.
The Director, GISG champions responsible and inclusive technology adoption, ensuring that digital solutions serve IUCN's conservation goals, contributes to organisational efficiency, strengthens connectivity with Members and Commissions, and respects IUCN's values of integrity, respect for diversity and professionalism as well as sustainable usage of resources. The Director, GISG works in close collaboration with programmatic Centres, Regional Offices, the Finance and Administration function, and external technology partners.
REQUIREMENTS
• A minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible professional experience in information technology, of which at least 7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g. CIO, CTO, IT Director) in an international or large-scale organisation.
• Proven track record of leading enterprise-wide digital transformation programmes, including cloud migration, ERP implementation or platform modernisation.
• Demonstrated experience in cybersecurity governance, risk management and data protection compliance in an international context.
• Experience in international organisations, UN agencies, intergovernmental bodies, or large NGOs is a strong asset.
• Demonstrated experience in managing diverse, geographically dispersed technology teams.
• Experience working with conservation data systems, biodiversity informatics, or environmental science platforms is an advantage.
• Track record in strategic budget planning and IT financial management, including cost recovery models.
• Experience in design and implementation of AI driven systems is an advantage.
SALARY
The gross annual salary for this position is between CHF 155'063 and CHF 193'829, subject to deductions for social security contributions and second-pillar pension, and before tax. While this is an indicative amount effective as of the current date, changes may occur as per IUCN's compensation practices without prior notice. The same applies to other organisations hosted by IUCN.
LOCATION
Headquarters, Gland, Switzerland
Switzerland is the preferred location. However, alternatives in countries where IUCN has a registered office can be considered for particularly highly qualified candidates.
IMPORTANT - the advertised salary range is specific to Switzerland only. Shortlisted candidates that are interested in alternative locations will be provided local-specific salary ranges.
APPLICATIONS
Applicants are requested to apply online through the HR Management System, by opening the vacancy announcement and pressing the "Apply" button: https://hrms.iucn.org/vacancy/7662.
Applicants will be asked to create an account and submit their profile information. Applications will not be accepted after the closing date. The vacancy closes at midnight, Swiss time (GMT+1 / GMT+2 during Daylight Saving Time, DST) on 21 September 2026.
Please note that only selected applicants will be personally contacted for interviews.
Applications should consist of a cover letter addressing suitability against the person specification and a full curriculum vitae.
IUCN is an equal opportunity employer with a diverse, globally distributed workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, or age.
