Lead Digital Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a prominent international financial institution established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Its mission is to reduce poverty and support development by providing loans, grants, and expertise. Founded in 1944, the World Bank has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in over 120 offices worldwide. The organization focuses on various sectors, including education, health, infrastructure, and digital development, aiming to foster sustainable economic growth and improve living standards globally. The World Bank is recognized for its commitment to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity, making it a key player in global development efforts.

Job Overview:
The Lead Digital Specialist will play a crucial role in the World Bank's Digital and AI Vertical, specifically within the WBG-Korea Global Digital Knowledge Center (DKC) located in Seoul. This position is designed for an individual who is passionate about leveraging digital technologies to transform development outcomes in client countries. The Lead Digital Specialist will provide strategic and technical leadership, ensuring that the DKC achieves its objectives as a global platform for digital knowledge exchange and innovation. The role involves shaping the technical direction of the DKC, managing a multidisciplinary team, and aligning the center's work with the World Bank Group's corporate priorities and Korea's digital development agenda. The specialist will also engage in high-level policy dialogues and partnership meetings, connecting the DKC's mission with broader World Bank strategies and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Lead Digital Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Providing overall technical direction for the DKC’s work program and ensuring alignment with the Digital and AI Vertical and regional strategies.
• Leading the preparation and delivery of the DKC’s annual workplan, results framework, and reporting.
• Participating in high-level policy dialogues and partnership meetings with stakeholders from the public and private sectors.
• Ensuring quality assurance and consistency of all knowledge products, capacity-building programs, and grant activities.
• Leading the design and implementation of flagship knowledge and operational programs under the DKC’s three strategic pillars: strengthening digital and data infrastructure, enhancing digital public services, and fostering an inclusive digital economy.
• Providing technical leadership to World Bank country teams and client governments on the Digital and AI Strategy.
• Overseeing analytical and advisory products to ensure they are policy-relevant and actionable.
• Mentoring DKC’s technical staff and fostering collaboration with Korean partners.
• Facilitating the integration of Korean expertise into World Bank operations and guiding teams in developing operational engagements. 1
• Serving as the focal point for coordination between the World Bank and the Government of Korea, ensuring effective collaboration and knowledge transfer.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in fields such as information technology, computer science, engineering, finance, economics, public policy, law, or a related area. A PhD is preferred. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 12 years of relevant professional experience in digital transformation, digital policy and regulation, and technology innovation driving development programs. They should demonstrate a proven record of leading complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives and possess deep technical knowledge in at least two domains related to digital transformation.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as information technology, computer science, engineering, finance, economics, public policy, law, or related disciplines. A PhD is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and research capability in the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in areas related to digital transformation and technology innovation. Candidates should have substantial experience leading complex initiatives that involve multiple stakeholders, showcasing their ability to manage and drive projects effectively in a dynamic environment.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with proficiency required for effective communication and documentation. Additionally, proficiency in Korean is preferred, as it will facilitate collaboration with local partners and stakeholders in Korea.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under international recruitment and has a term duration of 4 years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all candidates regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The role is full-time and based in Seoul, South Korea.