Digital Readiness Assessment Expert/Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Technology Bank for LDCs, established to support the least developed countries (LDCs) in their digital transformation efforts, aims to enhance their capacities 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 operates in multiple countries, focusing on providing targeted support to national strategies and inclusive digital ecosystems. It plays a crucial role in promoting digital transformation in LDCs, ensuring that these nations can harness the potential of digital technologies for growth and development.

Job Overview:
The Digital Readiness Assessment Expert/Consultant will play a pivotal role in conducting a comprehensive assessment of digital readiness in Lao PDR. This position involves collaborating with an international consultant to develop a contextualized methodology for the Digital Readiness Assessment, aligned with the ITU Digital Transformation Wheel. The consultant will be responsible for preparing various reports, including an inception report, draft assessment report, and final assessment report, which will incorporate stakeholder feedback and recommendations. The role requires extensive engagement with government ministries and stakeholders to collect qualitative and quantitative data, analyze findings, and provide actionable recommendations for advancing digital transformation in Lao PDR. The consultant will also facilitate national workshops and ensure that the assessment aligns with national priorities and international best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a range of duties, including: 1) Supporting the initial setup of the Digital Readiness Assessment, including stakeholder mapping and coordination with the International Consultant. 2) Conducting a desk review of national digital strategies, policies, and existing initiatives related to digital government and ICT. 3) Collecting data through interviews, surveys, and consultations with relevant stakeholders. 4) Providing logistical and substantive support for national workshops, including delivering presentations and summarizing outcomes. 5) Analyzing collected data to identify gaps and bottlenecks in digital readiness. 6) Drafting and finalizing the Digital Readiness Assessment Report based on stakeholder feedback and guidance from the International Consultant. The consultant will ensure that all outputs are aligned with the project’s objectives and contribute to the overall goal of enhancing digital transformation in Lao PDR.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Information Systems, Digital Transformation, Public Policy, Economics, Development Studies, or a related field. A minimum of seven years of professional experience in digital transformation, e-government, digital policy, or ICT for development is required. Demonstrated experience in conducting digital readiness assessments or similar institutional diagnostics is essential. Strong knowledge of international digital development frameworks, including ITU digital indicators, is required, along with proven analytical, research, and report-writing skills. Experience working with governments or international organizations is highly desirable, and familiarity with LDC contexts and public sector reform processes is an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Information Systems, Digital Transformation, Public Policy, Economics, or Development Studies. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of digital transformation and the policy frameworks that govern it.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of professional experience in areas related to digital transformation, e-government, or ICT for development. This experience should include conducting assessments and diagnostics that evaluate digital readiness and institutional capabilities. Familiarity with the challenges faced by LDCs in implementing digital strategies is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the UN and for the documentation produced. Knowledge of Laotian is considered desirable, as it would facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the quality of data collection and analysis.

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