Information Systems Officer (Head of Data and Digital Solutions Unit)

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Position Title: Information Systems Officer (Head of Data and Digital Solutions Unit)
Location: Beirut
Country: Lebanon
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a part of the United Nations Secretariat, operating under the supervision of the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Established to serve 21 Arab countries in Western Asia and North Africa, ESCWA aims to provide a framework for the formulation and harmonization of sectoral policies among its member states. It acts as a platform for congress and coordination, a hub for expertise and knowledge, and an information observatory. ESCWA's activities are coordinated with various divisions and main offices of the UN Headquarters, specialized agencies, and international and regional organizations, including the League of Arab States and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The Data Science and Decision-Support Division (DSDSD) is part of ESCWA's modernization and innovation efforts, focusing on advanced analytics and decision-support services for ESCWA, other UN entities, and Member States. The division leverages data-driven insights and emerging technologies to inform policymaking and operations, supporting sustainable development outcomes regionally and globally.

Job Overview:
The Information Systems Officer will lead the Data and Digital Solutions Unit within the Data Science and Decision-Support Division (DSDSD) at ESCWA. This role involves developing and implementing a strategic roadmap for digital and data solutions that align with the broader goals of DSDSD and ESCWA. The incumbent will oversee the design, development, deployment, and scaling of major systems and projects that are critical to the institution. This includes providing expert advice on complex systems analysis and design, identifying the need for new systems or modifications, and developing plans for feasibility assessments, requirements specifications, and implementation. The position requires a strong focus on leveraging advanced analytics, AI, and emerging technologies to create decision-support tools that enhance ESCWA's mandate. The officer will also be responsible for mentoring junior staff and managing project teams, ensuring that all aspects of system design and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security are addressed, and developing technical documentation and training materials.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Information Systems Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the development and leading the implementation of a strategic roadmap for digital and data solutions.
• Designing, developing, deploying, and scaling major systems and projects of significant importance.
• Providing expert advice on complex systems analysis and design, and identifying the need for new systems or modifications.
• Developing plans for feasibility assessments, requirements specifications, and implementation, including project plans and schedules.
• Overseeing the technical evaluation of proposals for contractual services and managing contracts.
• Tracking and monitoring project progress against plans and quality measures.
• Providing professional leadership and direction to project teams and mentoring junior staff.
• Executing complex aspects of projects, including systems analysis and development.
• Developing and monitoring information standards and guidelines. 1
• Preparing technical documentation and training materials. 1
• Identifying emerging technologies and trends to enhance digital transformation efforts. 1
• Participating in budget planning and preparation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in systems design, development, management, and maintenance of complex information systems. They should demonstrate the ability to develop and oversee large institutional systems and possess conceptual and strategic analytical skills to evaluate critical systems matters. Knowledge of various computer languages and development paradigms is essential, along with an understanding of the organization's information infrastructure and IT strategy. Candidates should exhibit professionalism, accountability, and sound judgment in decision-making processes, ensuring gender perspectives are incorporated into their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in computer science, information systems, data science, artificial intelligence, mathematics, statistics, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the specified fields, combined with two additional years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in planning, design, development, implementation, and maintenance of data and digital solutions, computer information systems, or related areas is required. Candidates should have a proven track record in digital transformation, software engineering, data science, AI/ML, and advanced analytics. Experience in program and project management of technology projects using methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, or Prince2 is desirable, along with experience in managing cross-functional teams and stakeholders in implementing digital solutions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, with English and French being the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Arabic is also beneficial, as it is a working language at ESCWA. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (speak, read, write, and understand).

Additional Notes:
This position is available for one year from the date of appointment, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of the post or funds, budgetary approval, and satisfactory performance. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging applications from female candidates and individuals from underrepresented member states. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request. Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions in accordance with established rules and procedures.