Data Protection and Cybersecurity Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 12,000 employees in more than 130 countries. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to support the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems, contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The FAO Representation in Bangladesh (FAOBD) focuses on providing technical assistance to implement projects that promote sustainable agricultural practices and food security in the country.

Job Overview:
The Data Protection and Cybersecurity Expert will play a crucial role in supporting the TARAPS project, which aims to repurpose agricultural public support towards sustainable food system transformation in Bangladesh. The expert will be responsible for ensuring that the technical data protection and cybersecurity requirements are met for the design of a KYC-enabled beneficiary registry that will serve over 500,000 beneficiaries. This position requires a deep understanding of data protection laws, cybersecurity frameworks, and risk management practices. The expert will work closely with various stakeholders, including the Agricultural Economist and Subsidy Management Specialist, to assess and implement effective data protection measures and cybersecurity safeguards for the e-voucher delivery models proposed in the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will support the TARAPS team in several key areas:

• Review the technical data protection and cybersecurity requirements for the KYC-enabled beneficiary registry to ensure appropriate security controls over demographic, behavioral, and transactional data.
• Evaluate the proposed e-voucher delivery models, including closed-loop prepaid smartcards, bank-issued financial smartcards, and QR-based mobile wallet vouchers, to ensure they incorporate adequate data protection and cybersecurity safeguards.
• Ensure that the digital solutions proposed by the project team align with FAO's internal ICT and CSI security standards and policies.
• Provide support to the Agricultural Economist and Subsidy Management Specialist on data protection and cybersecurity risk mitigation measures for the e-voucher system.
• Perform other related technical tasks as requested by FAO, limited to data protection and cybersecurity matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, or a related field. Additionally, they should have at least 8 years of experience in driving digital financial services and innovative payment infrastructures. A working knowledge of English at level C is required, and candidates must be nationals of Bangladesh or residents with a valid work permit.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Information Systems. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to address the complexities of data protection and cybersecurity in the context of agricultural public support systems.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of experience in the field, specifically in driving digital financial services and innovative payment infrastructures. This experience should include a proven track record of leading large-scale e-payment platforms, mobile financial services, and digital banking solutions from concept to nationwide launch. Familiarity with the agricultural sector in Bangladesh and experience working with international organizations will be advantageous.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with local stakeholders and partners involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a SC10 role within the FAO. The expert will work under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in Bangladesh and will collaborate closely with other specialists in the project. The role may involve additional technical assignments and providing strategic support to senior management and program leadership. The contract duration and specific compensation details are not mentioned in the job ad.