Senior Information Technology Officer (Artificial Intelligence)

Job Posting Organization:
The Digital FAO and Agro-Informatics Division (CSI) is a crucial part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), responsible for overseeing all Information Technology (IT) activities within the organization. Established to enhance the operational efficiency of FAO, CSI plays a pivotal role in defining IT policies, strategies, architecture, and standards. The division is dedicated to providing digital products and services that support FAO's global mandate and operations. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on improving agricultural practices and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security through technology and innovation.

Job Overview:
The Senior Information Technology Officer (Artificial Intelligence) is tasked with leading the integration and implementation of AI technologies within the FAO. This role is critical in ensuring that AI solutions align with the organization's goals and ethical standards. The officer will work closely with various teams to develop strategies that maximize the benefits of AI, ensuring effective adoption across different divisions. Responsibilities include formulating an actionable AI adoption strategy, conducting comprehensive analyses of organizational needs, and identifying key performance indicators to measure the success of AI implementations. The officer will also be responsible for researching suitable AI technologies, assessing their feasibility within existing infrastructures, and providing guidance on best practices for AI adoption. Training sessions and workshops will be conducted to educate stakeholders on AI technologies, ensuring compliance with data protection and ethical guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Information Technology Officer will lead specialized activities within the CSI, preparing work plans and monitoring progress to ensure that operations and project outputs meet organizational needs. The officer will manage financial and human resources, develop and report on key performance indicators, and advise senior management on IT matters. This includes leading the planning and coordination of an organization-wide IS/ICT strategy, supervising staff and external consultants, and representing the organization in formal meetings. The officer will also promote initiatives related to corporate environmental responsibility, ensuring that sustainability is integrated into daily operations. Specific functions include leading the AI focus area, conducting analyses of AI adoption challenges, collaborating with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with ethical and legal regulations regarding AI technologies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Mathematics/Statistics, or a related field. A working knowledge of English (proficiency - level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is required. Additionally, candidates should have ten years of relevant experience in IT portfolio management, Enterprise Architecture, Solutions Design, Governance, and Development, with at least three years in an international setting. Competencies such as results focus, leadership, communication, and strategic thinking are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, or Mathematics/Statistics. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of IT and AI technologies and their application within an international organization.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in IT management, with a focus on portfolio management, governance, and development. At least three years of this experience must have been in an international context, demonstrating the ability to work in diverse and multicultural environments. Experience in leading teams and managing IT solutions, particularly in public sector or international organizations, is highly valued.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a working knowledge (level C) required. Additionally, candidates should have intermediate proficiency (level B) in another official FAO language, which could include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This multilingual capability is essential for effective communication within the organization and with international stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO headquarters. While the job description does not specify a deadline for applications, it is important for candidates to be aware of the competitive nature of such roles within international organizations. The position is likely to be full-time, and candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that emphasizes collaboration and innovation in the field of AI and technology adoption.