WBG Director, Data and AI

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. Founded in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. WBG is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, addressing the world’s greatest development challenges through collaboration with public and private sector partners, investment in groundbreaking projects, and leveraging data, research, and technology to drive transformative change globally. For more information, visit www.worldbankgroup.com.

Job Overview:
The WBG Director for Data and AI will lead the newly established Solutions and Impact Department within the Digital and AI Vertical Vice Presidency. This role is pivotal in driving the organizational change necessary to integrate diverse teams from various parts of the WBG, focusing on delivering scalable solutions and impactful changes for public and private sector clients. The Director will be responsible for implementing sectoral strategies, guiding the scaling of AI and cybersecurity solutions, and ensuring alignment between policy and operational delivery. This position requires a visionary leader who can mobilize teams, foster partnerships, and represent the WBG on global strategic issues related to data, AI, and cybersecurity, ultimately contributing to the WBG's mission of sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The WBG Director will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Strategic Leadership: Leading the new approach for Solutions and Impact in Data and AI, coordinating implementation of strategies, and providing vision for scaling solutions.
• Operational Delivery: Supporting project development across regions, ensuring high-quality advisory services, and overseeing the delivery of impactful solutions.
• Relationship Management: Building partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, managing senior-level relationships, and fostering a culture of collaboration.
• Global Engagement: Leading advocacy initiatives on Data, AI, and cybersecurity, positioning the WBG as a leader in these fields.
• Internal Engagement and Capacity Building: Supporting knowledge sharing and enhancing client work quality.
• Knowledge Management and Communications: Cultivating an environment of innovation, disseminating best practices, and ensuring effective communication of results.
• People/Talent Management: Leading and mentoring a high-performing team, fostering a culture of inclusion and collaboration.
• Resource Management: Managing the department’s budget and ensuring compliance with WBG policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in engineering, technology studies, or an MBA, along with a minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible experience. They should have a strong technical understanding of data science, machine/deep learning, natural language models, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. A recognized leader in AI and cybersecurity, candidates should demonstrate the ability to engage with senior government and private sector leaders, represent the institution in high-level discussions, and have a proven track record of delivering impactful solutions. Experience in managing complex portfolios and leading organizational change initiatives is essential.

Educational Background:
The ideal educational background for this position includes an advanced degree, such as a Master's or PhD, in relevant fields such as engineering, technology studies, or business administration (MBA). This educational foundation should be complemented by extensive knowledge and expertise in data science, AI, and cybersecurity, which are critical for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 15 years of experience in roles of increasing responsibility and complexity, particularly in public organizations or private companies that have successfully implemented AI applications. Significant country-level experience in WBG client countries is also required, along with familiarity with the policies and operations of international financial institutions.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages is preferred but not required, as the primary focus will be on effective communication in English within the global context of the WBG.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 4 years. The role is full-time and involves significant leadership responsibilities within the WBG. The organization offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The WBG is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.