Jafar Javan joins IE University as Professor of Practice in Sustainable Development

As part of its commitment to shaping the next generation of global leaders through hands-on, real-world learning, IE University is pleased to announce the appointment of Jafar Javan as Professor of Practice in Sustainable Development. Dr. Javan, who served as Director of the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) from 2012 to 2025, brings a wealth of experience in multilateral diplomacy, international development, and leadership education.

With a distinguished career spanning roles at UNDP and UNSSC, Javan offers a unique perspective on international politics, sustainable development, and regional affairs. His expertise, combined with academic rigor and deep practical experience, will further strengthen IE University’s reputation as a global hub for excellence in education.

"We are truly fortunate to have Jafar join the IE faculty. He is one of the most knowledgeable people in the world on multilateralism and international development. He has both hands on experience as well as academic depth. This makes him unique and a true leader in the field. Our community will benefit immensely from his affiliation with us" said Manuel Muñiz, IE University Provost. 

As Professor of Practice, Javan will build on his longstanding collaboration with IE University, which includes his instrumental role in launching the Master’s and Executive Master’s programs in International Development, where he has been teaching since 2019. In his new role, he will focus on teaching, mentoring, and advising students on leadership, international development, and regional studies, helping bridge the gap between theory and practice. He will also contribute to IE’s Executive Education initiatives, including the Nelson Mandela Project for Social Change, in partnership with UNSSC.

Dr. Javan recently retired as Director of UNSSC, where he led the institution’s strategic direction and management from 2008 to 2025. Before that, he spent two decades at UNDP, working on development policy across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). In addition to his distinguished career in the United Nations, he holds a Doctorate in Psychology from North Carolina State University (1998) and both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree from the School of International Service at American University, Washington, D.C.

Enrico Letta, Dean of IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs, concluded: "With this appointment, IE University and the School reinforces its global leadership in sustainable development education, further strengthening its collaboration with multilateral institutions and its commitment to addressing global challenges through education and research."