Associate IT Program Officer (Business Management Officer)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. Founded in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on solving the world’s greatest development challenges through innovative projects and partnerships with public and private sectors. The organization is committed to delivering transformative change globally, leveraging data, research, and technology to improve lives.

Job Overview:
The Associate IT Program Officer (Business Management Officer) plays a crucial role in the Information and Technology Solutions (ITS) Vice Presidential Unit (VPU) of the World Bank Group. This position is designed to support the organization's mission of ending extreme poverty and boosting shared prosperity by delivering transformative information and technologies to staff across over 150 locations. The officer will be responsible for coordinating activities across various portfolios, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring operational excellence in alignment with World Bank priorities. The role involves strategic planning, communications, and decision-making support, making it essential for the effective execution of the ITS Country Engagement unit's strategic and operational priorities. The officer will also facilitate collaboration across regional teams and manage dependencies to resolve operational challenges, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the unit.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate IT Program Officer include serving as a trusted advisor to the Unit Manager, driving the execution of strategic priorities, and ensuring alignment across initiatives, teams, and stakeholders. The officer will coordinate and ensure timely execution of strategic initiatives, planning, reviews, and operational rhythms to support a globally distributed team across various time zones. Responsibilities also include developing executive communications, briefings, presentations, management reports, and other materials for leadership and stakeholder engagement activities. The officer will coordinate budget, workforce, and operational reporting activities to support business objectives, facilitate collaboration across regional teams and Country Management Units, and suggest and lead the implementation of improved operating models and good practices. Additionally, the officer will support business outreach activities to advance awareness and adoption of digital solutions for World Bank Group operations and enable operational excellence through effective planning and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree with at least five years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor's degree with at least seven years of relevant experience. Proven experience in supporting strategic planning, operational management, program coordination, and organizational effectiveness initiatives is essential. The candidate should have experience coordinating complex initiatives involving multiple stakeholders across teams, functions, and geographies. A strong understanding of digital solutions development, portfolio management, and business delivery models within large international organizations is required. Experience in supporting country-facing operations or operational delivery models within an international organization or public sector institution is advantageous. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities are also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related discipline. A Bachelor's degree may be acceptable if accompanied by significant relevant experience. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in both technical and managerial aspects of information technology and business management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience for candidates with a Master's degree, or seven years for those with a Bachelor's degree. This experience should encompass supporting strategic planning, operational management, and program coordination within complex organizational environments. Candidates should demonstrate a history of successfully managing initiatives that involve multiple stakeholders and require a high level of collaboration and communication.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the World Bank Group. While not required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions in which the World Bank operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of three years. The role is full-time and is based in Sofia, Bulgaria. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.