Digital & AI Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Established in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in more than 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank Group is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on providing financial and technical assistance to help countries implement projects that address their most pressing development challenges. The organization aims to leverage data, research, and technology to create innovative solutions that can effectively tackle global issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.

Job Overview:
The Digital & AI Specialist position at the World Bank Group is a critical role aimed at enhancing the digital transformation efforts in the South Asia region, particularly in Bangladesh. The specialist will work closely with client countries to support their digital ambitions and oversee various activities as a technical expert. This role involves engaging in policy dialogue with senior government officials and coordinating with relevant government agencies and development partners. The specialist will contribute to the design and supervision of investment and policy reform programs focused on digital and AI initiatives, emphasizing the development of digital public infrastructure and enhancing digital connectivity. The position also requires advising clients on strategies and best practices for building the foundations of their digital economies, including the establishment of national AI strategies and governance frameworks. The Digital & AI Specialist will collaborate with a diverse team, including a Senior Digital & AI Specialist, to drive impactful digital solutions and foster innovation across various sectors.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Digital & AI Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting client engagements in Bangladesh to facilitate their digital transformation goals and supervising sector activities as a technical expert.
• Contributing to the design, preparation, and supervision of World Bank Group financed investment and policy reform programs focused on digital and AI, particularly in strengthening infrastructure for an AI-ready economy.
• Advising clients on strategies and best practices for developing their digital economies, including participating in technical assistance activities and providing timely technical expertise on policy, legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks.
• Supporting policy dialogue and providing technical advisory services to help client countries develop AI-ready economies, including designing national AI strategies and governance frameworks.
• Liaising with colleagues in other sectors to leverage digital technologies and AI for improved public service delivery and to stimulate innovation and investment.
• Contributing to policy dialogue with senior officials of client countries and regional institutions, ensuring alignment with development goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in telecommunications, engineering, law, economics, public policy, computer science, or a related field, along with a minimum of 5 years of experience in Digital Transformation or Digital Economy policy and regulation. Demonstrated experience in policy dialogue and operations related to digital public infrastructure, AI and data governance, and broadband connectivity is essential. Candidates should also have a good understanding of the role of the private sector in digital transformation and familiarity with structuring arrangements between public and private sector investors. Knowledge of digital technology trends and risks relevant to socio-economic development is crucial, as well as proven experience leading policy dialogue in countries with limited capacity.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field such as telecommunications, engineering, law, economics, public policy, or computer science is required. This educational background should be complemented by substantial experience in the field of digital transformation and policy implementation, ensuring that candidates are well-equipped to handle the complexities of the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in Digital Transformation or Digital Economy policy and regulation, with a strong track record of project design and implementation. Experience in policy dialogue and operations in Bangladesh, particularly in areas such as digital public infrastructure and AI governance, is highly desirable. The ability to influence reforms and engage effectively with stakeholders is critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. While English is the primary language required, familiarity with additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the South Asia region or the specific client countries involved.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The World Bank Group is committed to diversity and encourages applications from individuals with disabilities, women, and candidates from Sub-Saharan Africa and Caribbean regions. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. All applications will be treated confidentially, and candidates with open term appointments will retain their employment status if selected for this position.