Director, Division of Hydrology and Cryosphere

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION:
21 November 2025

YOUR PROFILE

Leader with advances expertise in hydrology, cryospheric sciences, water resources, or related field, bringing
at least 15 years'
progressive experience in operational hydrology, water resources management, or cryosphere science with demonstrated experience in international coordination and service development.

LEADING INTEGRATED WATER CYCLE SCIENCES FOR GLOBAL IMPACT

The Director will lead the Division of Hydrology and Cryosphere in coordinating hydrological and cryospheric functions within WMO's Earth system approach, recognizing the connections between cryosphere science and hydrological monitoring, modelling and forecasting to support WMO Members in addressing water-related challenges.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the authority of the Director, Department of Earth System Data and Prediction, the Director will provide strategic leadership for three specialized sections: Hydrological Monitoring and Data Management; Hydrological Modelling and Forecasting; and Cryosphere and Water Assessment Services, ensuring cohesive and interdisciplinary implementation aligned with operational and scientific priorities.

a) Lead coordination of global hydrological monitoring networks ensuring sustained, high-quality observation of water cycle processes;

b) Advance standardization, accessibility and interoperability of hydrological data supporting integrated water resource assessment and hydrological services;

c) Oversee development of real-time hydrological modelling capabilities and water balance applications;

d) Support Members in building robust hydrological monitoring infrastructure aligned with diverse regional water challenges;

e) Coordinate development and implementation of flood forecasting systems and drought monitoring capabilities;

f) Lead integration of hydrological prediction systems with atmospheric sciences across multiple timescales;

g) Advance multi-hazard early warning systems for water-related disasters supporting emergency services and water management authorities;

h) Oversee extrabudgetary projects expanding flood forecasting investments and hydrological capacities;

i) Lead WMO's integrated cryosphere activities including snow, ice and permafrost monitoring systems;

j) Coordinate understanding of polar region processes and cryosphere-hydrology interactions;

k) Support Members in connecting cryosphere dynamics with water resource assessment and climate adaptation;

l) Ensure coordination with Global Cryosphere Watch (GCW) and EC-PHORS governance structures;

m) Translate complex water science into practical services for Member States addressing diverse institutional contexts;

n) Lead cross-departmental collaboration with Science and Innovation Division to integrate research advances into operational practice;

o) Coordinate with Hydrological Assembly and Hydrological Coordination Panel ensuring alignment with WMO governance;

p) Foster international coordination connecting hydrological and cryospheric expertise across atmospheric science communities.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Master's degree or equivalent
in hydrology, cryospheric sciences, water resources, or related field.

Experience

-
A minimum of fifteen (15) years'
progressively responsible experience in operational hydrology, water resources management, or cryosphere science with demonstrated experience in international coordination and service development.

• Published research or professional experience demonstrating integration across water cycle domains is required.

• Proven track record in managing diverse and interdisciplinary teams, including ability to oversee program management and budgeting.

Other requirements

OPERATIONAL HYDROLOGY:

Deep knowledge of flood forecasting systems, drought monitoring, and water resource assessment methodologies with understanding of real-time hydrological modelling and water balance applications.

CRYOSPHERE SCENCE:

Understanding of snow, ice and permafrost monitoring systems, with knowledge of polar region processes and cryosphere-hydrology interactions.

INTERGRATED WATER SYSTEMS:

Experience connecting hydrological and cryospheric processes with atmospheric sciences, including understanding of multi-hazard early warning systems for water-related disasters.

SERVICE DELIVERY:

Knowledge of how hydrological science translates into practical services for Member States, with understanding of diverse regional water challenges and institutional contexts.

COMPETENCIES

The Director, Division of Hydrology and Cryosphere must demonstrate managerial-level proficiency in the following competencies:

CRITICAL:

• Innovation and Digital Agility

• Decision Making and Problem Solving

• Communication and Influence

• Collaboration and Team Dynamics

SUPPORTING:

• Inclusive Mindset and Cultural Awareness

• Stakeholder Understanding and Engagement

• Integrity and Accountability

Languages

Excellent knowledge of English (both oral and written). Knowledge of other official languages of the Organization would be an advantage.