IT and Data Systems Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every individual has access to sexual and reproductive health services, and advocating for gender equality and women's empowerment. UNFPA's mission is to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) agenda, particularly in the areas of maternal health, family planning, and gender-based violence prevention. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the need to address the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to health services and reproductive rights, while also promoting inclusive policies that support marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The position of IT and Data Systems Expert is critical in supporting the UNFPA's initiative to draft the Law on the Registry of Persons with Disabilities in Serbia. This consultancy role involves conducting a comprehensive technical assessment of existing databases and registries that contain data on persons with disabilities, evaluating data entry mechanisms, and defining technical specifications necessary for the establishment and maintenance of the new registry. The expert will work closely with a team of national consultants, including a Coordinator and two other experts, to ensure that the law is developed in alignment with international best practices and national standards. The consultancy aims to enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities in Serbia by establishing a unified registry that facilitates better policymaking and resource allocation. The expert will also assess various identification methods for persons with disabilities and conduct a preliminary financial assessment of the proposed registry system, ensuring that the solutions proposed are both effective and sustainable.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a technical assessment of existing databases and registries containing data on persons with disabilities, including those maintained by relevant institutions such as the Institute of Public Health, Pension and Disability Insurance Fund, and local governments.
• Evaluate data entry mechanisms for the future Registry of Persons with Disabilities, considering legal, technical, operational, and privacy implications.
• Define technical specifications necessary for the establishment, operation, and maintenance of the new Registry, including system architecture and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security protocols.
• Propose identification methods for persons with disabilities, focusing on chip-based and non-chip-based cards, and provide technical and financial specifications for each option.
• Conduct a preliminary financial assessment of the proposed Registry system, estimating budgetary resources required for implementation and maintenance.
• Provide technical inputs and supporting documentation to the Coordinator and other experts involved in the drafting process.
• Perform any additional tasks as requested by UNFPA leadership, particularly within the consultant's area of expertise.

Required Qualifications:

• University degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or Engineering with a specialization in IT or systems engineering.
• Excellent practical knowledge of inclusive social protection systems.
• Previous working experience with relevant ministries in similar exercises is a strong asset.
• Good knowledge of national policy and practice in Serbia, including national laws and key players at institutional and local levels.
• Strong analytical skills, communication skills, and the ability to coordinate team efforts.
• Ability to meet deadlines and prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
• Strong organizational skills, self-motivated, result-oriented, and proactive.
• Excellent communication, writing, and editorial skills, with the ability to communicate in accessible and inclusive formats.

Educational Background:
A university degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or Engineering with a specialization in IT or systems engineering is required for this position. This educational background ensures that the candidate possesses the necessary technical knowledge and skills to effectively assess and develop data systems related to persons with disabilities.

Experience:
The position requires a strong background in IT and data systems, with specific experience in working with inclusive social protection systems. Candidates should have prior experience collaborating with relevant ministries on similar projects, which will be considered a significant asset. Familiarity with national policies and practices in Serbia, particularly those related to persons with disabilities, is essential. The ability to analyze complex data systems and provide actionable recommendations is also crucial.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and the local language (Serbian) is required for this position. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders, including government officials and local communities, as well as for the preparation of reports and documentation in both languages.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to deliver a series of technical assessments and specifications by specific deadlines, with the first deliverable due by 1st August 2025 and the final deliverable by 1st October 202

• The position may involve collaboration with various stakeholders, including government ministries and international organizations, to ensure the successful development of the Law on the Registry of Persons with Disabilities. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and persons with disabilities.