Digital Solutions & CoE Specialist

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 workforce of approximately 4,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to addressing global population issues and promoting reproductive health and rights. UNFPA's mission is guided by the principles of human rights and gender equality, and it aims to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 through its strategic plan for 2026-2029, which emphasizes resilience and renewal in a complex global environment.

Job Overview:
The Digital Solutions & CoE Specialist is a pivotal role within the Digital Centre of Excellence (DCoE) at UNFPA Headquarters in New York. This position is responsible for managing and integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions into UNFPA's programmatic work. The specialist will work closely with the Chief of the DCoE to identify, evaluate, and implement innovative technologies and best practices that enhance the organization's ICT capabilities. The role involves translating the Centre's digital strategy into practical, enterprise-compliant products that are scalable and secure, thereby directly contributing to UNFPA's programmatic impact. The specialist will also co-lead partnerships and support resource mobilization efforts to finance the scaling of digital solutions, pilot ideas, and provide startup support.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Digital Solutions & CoE Specialist will be responsible for the following key areas: A. Digital Product Management & CoE Solution Scaling: Manage the technical lifecycle, rollout, and scaling of core digital products developed or adopted by the DCoE. Draft product roadmaps, technical requirements, and user stories for software developers and vendors. Conduct technical feasibility assessments and digital maturity evaluations for Country Offices. Ensure compliance with cybersecurity standards, enterprise architecture, and data privacy regulations. Track product performance and apply mitigation measures as necessary. B. Technical Advisory & Field Support: Provide technical assistance to Regional and Country Offices on implementing complex ICT and digital solutions. Offer quality assurance on developer deliverables and technical integration. Establish standard operating procedures and technical documentation guidelines. Act as the technical interface between developers and non-technical programme staff. C. Governance, Capacity Building & Standards: Develop technical guidelines and coding standards for digital products. Lead workshops and training sessions for regional ICT officers. Oversee vendor contracts and ensure timely execution of deliverables. Maintain a catalogue of reusable solutions for Country Offices. D. Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation: Co-lead partnerships from initial engagement to signed agreements. Draft proposals and partner briefs to secure financing for digital initiatives. Support Country Offices in developing funding proposals and quality-assure technical content. Build and maintain a pipeline of external donors and partners. E. Carry out any other duties 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. Candidates should have a minimum of five years of increasingly responsible professional experience in software product management, digital transformation, system architecture, or technology-driven development initiatives. A proven track record in managing technology implementation lifecycles and providing technical advisory support in decentralized environments is essential. Familiarity with data privacy standards and enterprise systems architecture is highly desirable, along with experience in the UN system or similar environments.

Educational Background:
The position requires 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 background ensures that candidates have the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage digital solutions and ICT initiatives within the organization.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields such as software product management, digital transformation, and technology-driven development initiatives. Experience in managing technology implementation lifecycles and providing technical advisory support in international or decentralized environments is crucial. Familiarity with T4D, AI, and KM systems in cloud environments is also important, as is the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UN languages, particularly French and/or Spanish, is considered desirable and would be an asset in enhancing communication and collaboration within the organization and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA is committed to providing a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization 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 upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics.