Chief, Digital Center of Excellence

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. The organization is dedicated to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly in areas related to reproductive health, gender equality, and population dynamics. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 outlines its commitment to addressing complex global challenges and ensuring that fundamental human rights are upheld. With a workforce that embodies integrity, cultural diversity, and a commitment to excellence, UNFPA seeks to transform and inspire high-impact results through effective partnerships and resource mobilization.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the Digital Center of Excellence at UNFPA is a pivotal leadership role that provides strategic oversight for all digital products and services that support the organization's core programmatic work. This position is integral to UNFPA's digital transformation agenda, focusing on the development of digital interventions and solutions that enhance the effectiveness of UNFPA's programs. The Chief will be responsible for implementing the strategic vision for digital initiatives, managing a dedicated team, and ensuring that digital investments are aligned with the organization's goals. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including regional and country leadership, UN agencies, and external partners, to drive the integration of AI, data, and knowledge management into UNFPA's programming. The Chief will also oversee the lifecycle of digital products, ensuring they are user-centered and effectively contribute to UNFPA's transformative results.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of the Digital Center of Excellence will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Strategic Digital Leadership: Drive the implementation of the UNFPA Digital Strategy, translating it into actionable multi-year roadmaps for the Digital CoE. Act as a strategic liaison with regional, country, and program teams to ensure digital investments are impact-focused and integrated into country programs. Direct budget and resource planning, and manage resource mobilization efforts for the Digital CoE.
• Digital Product Lifecycle Management: Oversee the end-to-end delivery and lifecycle of the Digital CoE’s product portfolio, utilizing human-centered design and agile methodologies. Collaborate with ITSO engineering teams to enhance product delivery and identify emerging technologies.
• AI, Data, and Knowledge Governance: Lead the UNFPA AI Governance Framework and Data Governance Framework, ensuring ethical use of AI and strategic management of data.
• Digital Dexterity and Change Management: Lead the Digital Dexterity Program to equip staff with skills to leverage AI and digital tools. Foster a culture of continuous learning and high digital literacy among staff and partners.
• Team Management: Manage the staff of the Digital Center of Excellence, including recruitment, performance evaluation, and training development. Ensure the delivery of training on corporate technologies and platforms.
• Additional Duties: Carry out any other responsibilities as required by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related discipline. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in information technology management, business operations, or field support is required, with a focus on leveraging technology to improve program results in a large international organization. Knowledge of T4D, AI, and KM systems in cloud environments is essential, along with proven project and program management skills. Familiarity with UN system policies and operations is desirable, as is the ability to communicate effectively across all organizational levels.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of digital transformation and technology management within an international organization.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in information technology management, business operations, or field support. Candidates should have a strong background in leveraging technology to enhance program results, particularly in large international organizations. Experience with project and program management, as well as knowledge of change management practices, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the UN system and its policies will be an advantage, as will the ability to effectively communicate with various stakeholders, including executive management and key clients.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UN languages, particularly French and/or Spanish, is considered desirable. Proficiency in multiple languages can enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse international environment of UNFPA.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization is committed to ensuring gender parity and encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.