WIPODirector (D-1/D-2)Policy & Governance

Preparation Guide

Director, Innovation Impact Division (IID) (D-1) — WIPO

20 days until deadline (25 September 2026)

Expected Timeline

Based on the position grade (D-1), contract type (Staff), and WIPO's typical recruitment process.

Apply20d left
Screening2-4 weeks
Assessment2-4 weeks
References1-2 weeks
Offer2-4 weeks
Apply
20d left
Screening
2-4 weeks
Assessment
2-4 weeks
References
1-2 weeks
Offer
2-4 weeks
Estimated total process: 2-4 months

Note: UN recruitment timelines vary significantly. Some positions may take longer due to roster reviews, budget approvals, or geographic representation considerations.

Assessment Predictor

Based on the grade level, contract type, and position profile, expect the following evaluations:

Written TestCompetency-Based InterviewTechnical InterviewPresentation / Case StudyLanguage Assessment
Competency-Based Interview (CBI)

The UN uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 2-3 concrete examples for each competency listed below. Focus on recent professional experiences (last 5 years).

Written Assessment

Typically a timed exercise (1-2 hours) testing analytical writing, policy analysis, or technical knowledge relevant to the role. Practice writing concise, structured responses under time pressure.

Presentation / Case Study

Senior positions often require a presentation on a relevant topic or a case study analysis. Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation with clear structure: context → analysis → recommendations.

Competency Breakdown

These competencies were extracted from the vacancy announcement. Prepare STAR-format examples for each.

CoreAccountability
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you took responsibility for a mistake or an unsuccessful outcome. What steps did you take, and what did you learn?
CoreRespect for Diversity
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you had to work with someone whose perspective, background, or working style differed significantly from yours. How did you bridge that gap?
CoreIntegrity
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you faced pressure to compromise your professional or ethical standards. How did you handle it?
ManagerialVision
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you defined a long-term strategy or direction for your team or project. How did you bring stakeholders along?
FunctionalResults-Based Management
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you introduced or applied results-based management principles to a programme. How did you define success indicators and use them to course-correct?
FunctionalInnovation
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about an innovative approach or tool you introduced in your work. How did you get buy-in and what changed as a result?

Required Skills & Technical Knowledge

ResearchInnovationAnalyticsIntellectual PropertyInnovation EcosystemsWrittenSpoken EnglishOther Official Un LanguagesThe International Ip SystemTechnology TransferIp CommercializationThese Rapidly Expanding Areas

Position Profile

GradeD-1
SeniorityDirector (D-1/D-2)
Role TypePolicy & Governance
ContractStaff
EducationMaster's
Experience10+ years
LanguagesEnglish
SalaryUSD 217,859.191–251,550.318/yr
View full vacancy Apply now

Preparation Checklist

  • Prepare 2-3 STAR stories for each competency (6 total)
  • Research WIPO's latest strategic plan and priorities
  • Prepare a concise 2-minute "Tell me about yourself" response
  • Practice analytical writing under time pressure (1-2 hours)
  • Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation on a relevant topic
  • Read recent news and developments about WIPO
  • Prepare 3-4 questions to ask the interview panel
  • Review the UN common system values and organizational culture

Pro Tips

  • UN interviews are competency-based — they ask for specific examples, not hypothetical scenarios.
  • Use the STAR method: Situation → Task → Action → Result.
  • Show how your experience aligns with the UN values: integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity.
  • Be specific and quantify your achievements when possible.
  • Mention experience working in multicultural environments — it's highly valued.