Digital Readiness Assessment Expert/Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) was established to support the digital transformation of LDCs, enhancing their capacity to leverage technology for sustainable development. The organization collaborates with various UN agencies and partners to implement projects that address systemic barriers to digital transformation. The UN Technology Bank aims to promote inclusive growth, resilience, and institutional effectiveness in LDCs through targeted support and capacity development. It operates in multiple countries, focusing on the unique challenges faced by LDCs in the digital landscape.

Job Overview:
The Digital Readiness Assessment Expert/Consultant will play a crucial role in conducting a comprehensive assessment of Timor-Leste's digital readiness. This position involves collaborating with an international consultant to contextualize methodologies and frameworks, such as the ITU Digital Transformation Wheel, to the specific needs of Timor-Leste. The consultant will be responsible for developing an inception report, conducting a baseline assessment, and facilitating stakeholder consultations to gather qualitative and quantitative data. The ultimate goal is to produce a detailed Digital Readiness Assessment Report that outlines the current state of digital infrastructure, governance, and institutional capacity in Timor-Leste, identifying gaps and providing actionable recommendations for digital transformation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including: 1) Supporting the initial setup of the Digital Readiness Assessment by mapping stakeholders and confirming data sources; 2) Coordinating with international consultants to ensure alignment with the agreed analytical framework; 3) Conducting a desk review of national digital strategies and policies; 4) Collecting data through interviews and surveys with government ministries and stakeholders; 5) Providing logistical support for national workshops and facilitating discussions; 6) Analyzing collected data to identify gaps and bottlenecks; 7) Revising and finalizing the Digital Readiness Assessment Report based on stakeholder feedback. The consultant will also document meetings, prepare presentations, and ensure that all outputs align with the project’s objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as Information Systems, Digital Transformation, Public Policy, or Development Studies. A minimum of five years of professional experience in digital transformation, e-government, or related areas is required. Demonstrated experience in conducting digital readiness assessments and familiarity with international digital development frameworks are essential. Strong analytical, research, and report-writing skills are necessary, along with experience engaging with government ministries and public institutions. Knowledge of the digital governance landscape in Timor-Leste is highly desirable, as is experience working with international organizations.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Information Systems, Digital Transformation, Public Policy, Economics, Development Studies, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of digital governance and the frameworks necessary for effective digital transformation in a national context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in areas related to digital transformation, e-government, or ICT for development. Candidates should have a proven track record of conducting digital readiness assessments or similar institutional diagnostics. Experience working with government ministries and public institutions at the national level is essential, as is familiarity with the challenges faced by Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in their digital transformation efforts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all reports and communications will be conducted in English. Additionally, knowledge of Tetum and Portuguese is required, reflecting the linguistic context of Timor-Leste and facilitating effective communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for a duration of nine months, and the work will be conducted remotely. The consultant will report directly to the UN Technology Bank for LDCs and will work closely with UN-OHRLLS and designated counterparts from the Government of Timor-Leste. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the process remains transparent and accessible to all applicants.