Consultant for Parliamentary Functions and Digital Transformation

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) was established in 1973 with the mission to promote economic and social development in the Arab region. ESCWA aims to foster regional cooperation and integration, enhance the capacity of member states, and support sustainable development initiatives. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Arab region, focusing on various sectors including governance, social development, and economic policy. ESCWA has a diverse workforce comprising numerous employees who are dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by the region, particularly in the context of conflict and post-conflict recovery.

Job Overview:
The consultant will work under the supervision of the Syria Portfolio Coordinator and the NAFS Programme Manager, focusing on enhancing parliamentary functions and legislative reform in Syria. The role involves preparing concise policy briefs and analytical notes that address key parliamentary topics, particularly the Parliament's role in advancing technology and digital transformation. The consultant will also present findings to Members of Parliament, facilitating knowledge exchange and ensuring that the deliverables align with the evolving needs of Syrian institutions. This position is crucial as Syria navigates its transitional phase, aiming to rebuild its governance structures and promote social cohesion.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's responsibilities include conducting thorough research on parliamentary functions with a focus on technology and digital transformation. They will prepare tailored policy briefs and analytical notes that include practical recommendations for the Syrian context. Additionally, the consultant will develop and deliver presentations summarizing key findings to Members of Parliament and relevant stakeholders. They will also support knowledge exchange initiatives and incorporate feedback to refine their deliverables, ensuring that the outputs are relevant and impactful in the context of Syria's transitional phase.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in Technology, communication, or a related field, with a master's degree being desirable. A minimum of 10 years of experience in digital transformation policy and working with government institutions is required. Candidates should have an in-depth understanding of the Syrian context and the structure and functioning of Syria’s institutions. Established records of publications or contributions to relevant academic or policy-oriented literature are also desirable, showcasing the candidate's expertise and engagement in the field.

Educational Background:
The position requires a bachelor's degree in Technology, communication, or a related field as a minimum qualification. A master's degree in these fields is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of the subject matter. All candidates must submit a copy of their educational degree, as incomplete applications will not be reviewed, emphasizing the importance of meeting the educational requirements for this role.

Experience:
The consultant must have at least 10 years of experience in digital transformation policy, particularly in relation to government institutions. This extensive experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of the Syrian context and effectively contributing to the legislative reform and institutional development efforts. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of working in similar roles, showcasing their ability to navigate the challenges associated with post-conflict governance and institutional rebuilding.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is required for this position, as it is a working language of UNESCWA. Candidates should also have fluency in English, which is desirable. The term 'fluency' refers to a candidate's ability to speak, read, write, and understand the language proficiently. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, but not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and expected to last for a duration of 3 months. There are no additional notes regarding contract duration, seniority level, or compensation provided in the job ad. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible and free from financial barriers.