AI Strategy Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established 70 years ago, operates in 190 countries and territories with a mission to promote children's survival, protection, and development. As the world's largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF focuses on child health, nutrition, education, and protection from violence and exploitation. Funded entirely by voluntary contributions, UNICEF is committed to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to advance children's rights globally, ensuring that innovations are inclusive, equitable, ethical, and aligned with its core values. The organization prides itself on offering diverse opportunities for professional and personal development, fostering a culture where careers are built and individuals can grow while serving children and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The AI Strategy Specialist will play a crucial role in improving the distribution of AI-related guidance within UNICEF. This position involves working closely with the Chief of AI and collaborating with various teams, including the AI Hub, ICTD, TeamOne, and regional/country AI focal points. The specialist will lead the development and continuous refinement of UNICEF's AI strategy, ensuring it aligns with organizational priorities and ethical principles. Additionally, the role includes overseeing UNICEF's global portfolio of AI initiatives, establishing methodologies for tracking progress, and supporting the transition of AI solutions into sustainable production. The specialist will also design and manage an integrated AI roadmap, act as Secretariat to the AI Steering Committee, and provide strategic advice to senior leadership on global AI trends and opportunities. This position is vital for ensuring that UNICEF harnesses AI technologies responsibly and effectively to benefit children worldwide.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• AI Strategy Development & Maintenance: Lead the development and continuous refinement of UNICEF’s AI strategy, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and ethical principles. Develop an external-facing AI strategy framework to position UNICEF as a global thought leader in responsible AI for children. Serve as a strategic advisor to regional and country offices on AI adoption, providing tailored guidance for responsible implementation in diverse contexts.
• Portfolio Management: Oversee UNICEF’s global portfolio of AI initiatives, ensuring strategic alignment, responsible use, and measurable impact. Establish and institutionalize portfolio management methodologies to track progress, assess value creation, and manage risks. Support the transition of AI solutions from sandbox and testing environments into scaled sustainable production.
• Roadmap & Value Framework: Design and manage an integrated AI roadmap (Sandbox, Hub, and Portal), with clear milestones, timelines, and KPIs. Deliver regular insights, dashboards, and recommendations to inform decision-making by senior management. Monitor organizational progress against the roadmap, adapting priorities in response to emerging needs, technological developments, and available resources.
• Governance & Oversight: Act as Secretariat to the AI Steering Committee, developing governance charters, meeting materials, and decision-tracking mechanisms. Co-lead the AI Strategy & Value Realization Working Group, defining value levers, standard metrics, and impact measurement methodologies. Ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical guardrails are embedded across all AI-related initiatives.
• Capacity Building & Partnerships: Provide high-level strategic advice to UNICEF senior leadership on global AI trends, risks, and opportunities. Develop policy briefs, thought leadership papers, and briefing notes for both internal and external audiences. Build and maintain cross-agency collaborations and partnerships with UN entities, academia, the private sector, and civil society to advance UNICEF’s AI agenda. Strengthen organizational capacity through knowledge-sharing, peer learning, and the development of toolkits and guidance for regional and country offices.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in AI strategy development, portfolio management, and governance. They should have experience in leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects. A deep understanding of ethical AI principles and the ability to navigate the AI ecosystem is essential. The candidate should also demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders effectively. Strong analytical skills and the capacity to synthesize complex information into actionable insights are crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a master's degree in a relevant field such as computer science, data science, public policy, or international development. A strong academic background in AI, machine learning, or related disciplines is highly desirable. Additional certifications in project management or AI ethics would be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5-7 years of relevant professional experience in AI strategy, project management, or a related field. Experience working in international organizations or NGOs, particularly in child rights or development contexts, is preferred. Proven track record of successfully managing AI initiatives and partnerships is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in Spanish is highly desirable. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly French or Arabic, would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Valencia, Spain, and may involve some travel to regional and country offices. The contract duration is typically for a fixed term, with opportunities for extension based on performance and organizational needs. The role is full-time, and UNICEF offers a competitive compensation package, including a monthly living allowance, family allowances, medical and life insurance, and generous leave entitlements.