Digital Readiness Assessment Expert/Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Technology Bank for the LDCs, in partnership with the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS), is dedicated to supporting the digital transformation of Least Developed Countries (LDCs). The organization aims to enhance public service delivery, improve policy coherence, strengthen transparency and accountability, and enable innovation across the economy. The UN Technology Bank focuses on providing targeted support to national strategies, inclusive digital ecosystems, and regional knowledge cooperation, building on the work of the UN system that has supported digital transformation efforts in selected LDCs. The organization operates in multiple countries, including Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, and Timor-Leste, and is committed to addressing systemic barriers to digital transformation through evidence-based diagnostics, policy support, capacity development, and stakeholder engagement.

Job Overview:
The Digital Readiness Assessment Expert/Consultant will play a crucial role in conducting a comprehensive Digital Readiness Assessment for Nepal, which is part of a larger project aimed at promoting digital transformation in selected Asian LDCs. The consultant will work closely with an international consultant to contextualize the assessment methodology to Nepal's specific needs and ensure alignment with the ITU Digital Transformation Wheel. The consultant will be responsible for preparing various reports, conducting stakeholder consultations, and facilitating workshops to gather inputs from government ministries and public institutions. The assessment will focus on identifying gaps in digital infrastructure, governance frameworks, institutional capacity, and human capital, ultimately informing a national digital transformation roadmap that aligns with Nepal's development objectives. The consultant will also analyze cross-cutting issues such as cybersecurity, data governance, and the readiness for emerging technologies, providing actionable recommendations to advance digital transformation efforts in the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including: 1) Supporting the initial setup of the Digital Readiness Assessment by mapping stakeholders, confirming data sources, and coordinating with the International Consultant on assessment tools and timelines. 2) Conducting ongoing coordination with international consultants to ensure alignment with the agreed analytical framework and reporting templates. 3) Performing a desk review of national digital strategies, policies, and existing initiatives related to digital government and ICT. 4) Collecting qualitative and quantitative data through interviews, surveys, and consultations with relevant stakeholders. 5) Providing logistical and substantive support to national workshops, including delivering presentations and summarizing outcomes. 6) Analyzing collected data to identify gaps and bottlenecks in digital transformation. 7) Drafting the Digital Readiness Assessment Report and revising it based on stakeholder feedback. The consultant will also document regular meetings and ensure that all outputs are aligned with the project's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires several qualifications, including: 1) An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Information Systems, Digital Transformation, Public Policy, Economics, Development Studies, or a related field. 2) A minimum of five years of professional experience in digital transformation, e-government, digital policy, or ICT for development. 3) Experience engaging with government ministries and public institutions at the national level. 4) A strong understanding of Nepal's digital governance landscape, including relevant national policies and frameworks. 5) Demonstrated experience conducting digital readiness assessments or similar institutional assessments. 6) Knowledge of international digital development frameworks, including ITU digital indicators. 7) Proven analytical, research, and report-writing skills. 8) Experience working with governments or international organizations is highly desirable, and familiarity with LDC contexts is an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree, such as a Master's degree or equivalent, in fields related to Information Systems, Digital Transformation, Public Policy, Economics, Development Studies, or similar disciplines. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively conduct the Digital Readiness Assessment and contribute to the project's objectives.

Experience:
The consultant is expected to have a minimum of five years of professional experience in areas related to digital transformation, e-government, digital policy, or ICT for development. This level of experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of digital governance and the challenges faced by LDCs in implementing digital initiatives. The consultant should also have experience engaging with government ministries and public institutions, which will be vital for conducting stakeholder consultations and gathering relevant data for the assessment.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as the consultant will be expected to communicate effectively with international stakeholders and produce reports in English. Additionally, knowledge of Nepali is required, which will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and ensure that the consultant can engage effectively with government ministries and public institutions in Nepal.

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