Advisor on AI for Development

Job Posting Organization:
The Istanbul Regional Hub (IRH) serves as UNDP's primary knowledge and advisory hub for the Europe and CIS region (RBEC). Established to connect the region to a global network of development experts, the IRH builds knowledge and capacity while forging partnerships to address the diverse development challenges faced by the region. The Hub operates with a mission to integrate strategic priorities such as prosperity for all, effective governance, crisis resilience, and a healthy planet into its new Regional Programme for 2026-202

• The IRH is focused on acting as a catalyst for systemic transformation and deploying a portfolio approach that enables dynamic experimentation, learning, and adaptation across interconnected interventions. With over 20 active portfolios across 7 Country Offices, the IRH is reshaping development strategies in areas like urban transformation, digital innovation, and crisis response. The Innovation and Digital Team within the IRH is dedicated to sustainable development through strategic innovation and systems-thinking methods, closely collaborating with UNDP’s global Digital, AI, and Innovation Hub (DAI Hub).

Job Overview:
The Advisor on AI for Development will play a crucial role in shaping new AI-related programming offers, contributing to innovative analytical work, and supporting emergent workstreams and partnerships. The position requires the individual to monitor and analyze emerging trends in AI, develop service offers for UNDP Country Offices, and lead initiatives such as the Generative AI Incubator. The role emphasizes the importance of strategic foresight and the application of AI tools to enhance UNDP's programming and advisory work. The advisor will work under the guidance of the regional lead for digital and the Strategic Innovation Specialist, contributing to the overall mission of the IRH's Innovation and Digital team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Advisor on AI for Development include:

• AI Trend Analysis and Intelligence: Monitor and analyze the evolving AI landscape, produce trend briefs and analytical summaries, identify implications for UNDP Country Offices, and contribute to strategic planning processes.
• AI Service Offers for Country Offices: Research and develop AI-related service offers, engage with Country Offices to understand demand, lead the development and testing of service offers, and document methodologies and lessons learned.
• Generative AI Incubator: Lead the development of the incubator concept, curate practical content and resources, facilitate cohorts, and evaluate the incubator's effectiveness.
• Strategic Foresight with AI: Explore AI tools for strategic foresight, lead scenario development workflows, support research and preparation of foresight outputs, and facilitate workshops integrating AI methods.
• Partnerships and Resource Mobilization: Identify and support the development of strategic partnerships, contribute to partnership proposals, and broker relationships with identified partners.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the position include an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Economics, International Development, Social Sciences, Business Administration, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the above fields with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered. The candidate should possess strong analytical skills, experience in program management, and a solid understanding of AI and its applications in development contexts.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Economics, International Development, Social Sciences, or Business Administration. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) with additional qualifying experience may also be considered.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience with a master's degree or at least 4 years of experience with a bachelor's degree in program management, operations, development projects, or related areas. Experience in AI-related programming and strategic planning is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region would be considered an asset. Proficiency in languages such as French, Spanish, or Russian may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. UNDP is committed to equal opportunity and diversity, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures a fair recruitment process. Selected candidates may be subject to relevant checks and are expected to adhere to UNDP's standards and principles. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions.