Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for AEC

Association of Southeast Asian Nations

Location:
Jakarta, Indonesia
Category:
Executive
Posted May 22, 2026Apply by Jul 3, 2026 (6d left)

The Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for AEC assists the Secretary-General in leading the ASEAN Economic Community Department, providing strategic direction for the implementation of the AEC Strategic Plan and strengthening relations with ASEAN Dialogue Partners and the international community. The role involves overseeing multiple directorates and divisions, managing development cooperation, policy, and external relations.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee the functions of the Directorates and Divisions of the Department, managing development cooperation in economic matters, policy and relations with Member States, ASEAN External Partners and International Organisations.
  • Provide policy and procedural advice to relevant ASEAN bodies and initiate projects related to strengthening relations with External Partners of ASEAN.
  • Represent the ASEAN Secretariat at external meetings relating to the mandate and priorities of the Secretariat including Senior Officials Meetings, Ministerial Meetings and other key policy decision committees.
  • Make recommendations on matters of strategic and policy significance and provide ASEC’s input to relevant meetings to facilitate decision-making.
  • Manage external relationships and develop a network of contacts within ASEAN bodies as well as Regional and International Organisations to facilitate the work of ASEC.
  • Contribute to the collective leadership of the Secretariat by modeling the Secretary-General’s Core Principles, contributing to strategic direction, advising the Secretary-General, liaising with other Deputy Secretaries-General, fulfilling responsibilities as a member of ASEC’s Executive Committee, and representing the collective position of EXCOM to AEC staff.
  • Provide leadership in aligning the activities of the Department with the overall mandate, role and functions of the ASEAN Secretariat by advising Directorates and Divisions, setting performance goals, communicating clear directions, and motivating staff.
  • Prioritise and coordinate the work of the Directorates and Divisions to work collaboratively towards fulfilling ASEC’s mandate by setting objectives, supporting Directorates and Divisions, monitoring progress, promoting dialogue, and reallocating resources as necessary.
  • Ensure continuing professional development by conducting performance management, coaching, counselling, and developing staff competencies.

Requirements

  • Advanced Degree in one of the following disciplines: Economics, Business Management, International Business and Finance, International Relations, Law, Public Policy, Public Administration.
  • At least fifteen (15) years of experience with a proven track record in government, inter-governmental, and/or international organization.
  • Experience in dealing with a wide spectrum of international trade and finance, economic integration and economic cooperation matters, both in Regional and International environment.
  • A solid understanding of international and regional issues, and knowledge of and commitment to ASEAN ideals.
  • Negotiating skills and managing the technical and legal execution of legally binding economic agreements.
  • Ability to canvass financial support from ASEAN Partners to support sectoral capacity building initiatives across all of AEC.
  • Work closely with Multilateral Development Banks and Institutions, including Foundations, Philanthropic organization, the private sector associations and engaging both regional and global companies.
  • Strong leadership ability to steer a large team, lead and motivate staff in a dynamic, multi-cultural and demanding environment.
  • High-level interpersonal, negotiation and communication skills, including experience in cross-cultural environment and international settings.
  • High-level ability to develop and maintain sound working relationships with government representatives, public and private sector organisations and other stakeholders.
  • Commitment to consultative and collaborative approaches and work practices.
  • Familiarity with diplomatic practices and protocol and willingness to travel frequently on short notice.
  • Excellent command of English, written and spoken.
  • The age limit for each applicant shall not be more than 57 years old. ASEAN Secretariat Staff shall not be retained in active service beyond the age of 60 years.

Skills

  • Economic Integration
  • International Trade
  • Economic Cooperation
  • Negotiation Skills
  • Legal Agreement Execution
  • Financial Support Canvassing
  • Multilateral Development Banks Engagement
  • Public Private Partnerships
  • Leadership in Multicultural Settings
  • Cross-Cultural Communication
  • Stakeholder Relationship Management
  • Consultative Work Practices
  • Diplomatic Protocols
  • Policy Development
  • Strategic Planning
  • International Relations
  • Public Administration
  • Business Management
  • International Finance
  • English Language Proficiency

Languages

English