The Parties to the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus have opened recruitment for a senior leadership post that will steer implementation of the long‑running trade and development pact across the region. The newly advertised role — Head of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit — will be based in Samoa, sit on a fixed term of up to five years, and report directly to the PACER Plus Joint Committee.
The appointment marks the next operational phase for PACER Plus, which has been signed by 11 Forum Island Countries and covers trade in goods, services and investment with the stated aim of lowering barriers to trade, supporting businesses and boosting jobs and exports. The head of the Implementation Unit is tasked with translating the agreement’s objectives into concrete programmes, providing technical leadership on trade and development, and overseeing the Development and Economic Cooperation Work Programme that underpins delivery of PACER Plus commitments.
Key functions outlined in the job notice emphasise both strategic direction and hands‑on programme management. The postholder will be expected to implement the Joint Committee’s strategic priorities, build and lead a high‑performing team, and maintain working relationships with PACER Plus Parties and signatories. Specific responsibilities include planning, implementation, monitoring and reporting of aid‑for‑trade activities aligned with the annual work programme, ensuring quality standards, and managing emerging risks to transparent and effective project delivery.
The role carries demanding eligibility and experience requirements. Candidates should hold a tertiary degree — preferably at postgraduate level — in economics, international development or law, and bring at least 10 years of relevant experience in international trade and economic development, with Pacific experience described as essential. The Parties are looking for proven senior leadership experience in international or regional development settings, strong programme and financial management skills, and practical track records in delivering significant aid‑for‑trade programmes.
Technical expertise in trade and investment issues, familiarity with the links between trade and development, and an understanding of Pacific Island countries’ trade capacity building needs are also required. The job specification highlights the importance of inclusive trade approaches — covering SMEs, gender, human rights and climate considerations — and values candidates with extensive regional networks, ministerial‑level engagement experience, and public communication skills. Political astuteness and cultural sensitivity to Pacific contexts are noted as critical personal attributes.
The vacancy comes as Pacific governments and partners remain focused on boosting trade and investment ties. Fiji’s trade leadership has been active internationally, including delegation activity linked to business forums, while development institutions such as the World Bank have restructured country management to better support national priorities. Appointing an experienced head for PACER Plus implementation will determine how effectively aid‑for‑trade resources are coordinated across the region and how the agreement’s promises translate into tangible benefits for businesses and communities in member countries.
No application deadline or remuneration details were included in the public summary of the position. The Joint Committee’s recruitment of a fixed‑term head based in Samoa signals a centralised effort to accelerate delivery of PACER Plus programmes; the individual selected will carry substantial responsibility for shaping implementation over the coming five years.
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