Individual Consultant for AI-Enabled Analytics

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results by 2030: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet needs for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU) was made operational in January 2022 and is self-funded, tasked with ensuring effective delivery of life-saving reproductive health products and supplies. UNFPA emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position aims to provide specialized technical support for the development and operationalization of AI-enabled analytics within the UNFPA Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU). The consultant will work under the supervision of the Supply Chain Orchestration and Analytics Specialist (Team Lead) to enhance the analytical capabilities of the SCMU, particularly within the Supply Chain Control Tower and related data platforms. The role involves designing AI solutions that improve operational decision-making and the usability of supply chain data, thereby contributing to UNFPA's mission of delivering essential reproductive health services effectively and efficiently. The consultant will engage in various activities, including developing AI prototypes, integrating AI with existing data systems, and supporting knowledge transfer and capacity development within the SCMU.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key areas:

• AI Enablement for the Supply Chain Control Tower: This includes designing and developing AI-enabled analytical capabilities, such as conversational access to data, automated insights, and AI-assisted risk identification.
• Integration of AI with Control Tower Data Architecture: The consultant will work with IT teams to ensure AI capabilities are integrated with existing data systems, supporting the design of data pipelines and ensuring compatibility with various datasets.
• Development of AI Use Cases: The consultant will identify and prioritize AI use cases that support supply chain operations, including procurement monitoring, shipment tracking, and inventory risk alerts.
• Development of AI Prototypes and Analytical Tools: The consultant will design and develop analytical tools and prototypes that demonstrate practical value for SCMU operations, including natural language query interfaces and predictive analytics models.
• Knowledge Transfer and Capacity Development: The consultant will support the SCMU in building internal capacity to utilize AI analytics, developing guidance materials, and conducting training sessions for users.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (minimum Master’s degree or equivalent) in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Information Systems, Supply Chain Analytics, or related fields. Additionally, a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in AI or machine learning applications, data analytics, and data engineering is required. Experience in operational or supply chain environments is highly desirable, along with knowledge of data governance and responsible AI principles. Proficiency in analytical tools such as Power BI and Python is essential, as well as experience in designing and maintaining data pipelines in cloud-based environments.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (minimum Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Information Systems, or Supply Chain Analytics is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of AI applications and data analytics within supply chain management.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of progressively responsible experience in areas related to artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, and data engineering. This experience should include the development of AI-enabled analytical tools and working within cloud-based data environments. Proven ability to integrate APIs and manage data across diverse platforms is also necessary, along with experience in handling large-scale operational datasets.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of another official UN language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate within the diverse UN environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is a consultancy role, and UNFPA provides a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity. The organization encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups, including individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, and compensation, ensuring a diverse and inclusive workforce. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks and other administrative requirements, and UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application process.