Data Governance Specialist

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Position Title: Data Governance Specialist
Location: New York
Country: United States
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization established to promote sustainable development and eradicate poverty. Founded in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, employing around 17,000 staff members. The organization focuses on building democratic governance, rule of law, and inclusive institutions, while also addressing the challenges posed by climate change and inequality. UNDP is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel are empowered to contribute to its mission, and actively encourages applications from marginalized and underserved populations.

Job Overview:
The Data Governance Specialist will play a crucial role in the Chief Digital Office at UNDP, focusing on the implementation and revision of UNDP's safe and inclusive data exchange assessment and broader data governance assessment. This position requires providing technical guidance to governments on data exchange and governance, as well as delivering capacity development activities to enhance data skills across sectors. The specialist will work closely with UNDP's country offices and external partners to strengthen local data ecosystems and promote good data governance practices. The role also involves aligning with UNDP's communication team to develop knowledge products and support advocacy on safe and inclusive data governance, thereby contributing to the organization's digital transformation efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for leading the implementation and revision of UNDP's data exchange assessment and governance frameworks. This includes providing technical guidance to governments, conducting capacity development activities such as training sessions, and enhancing data skills across various sectors. The specialist will also drive coordination with internal teams and external partners to identify challenges in local data ecosystems and ensure alignment in supporting governments. Additionally, the role involves disseminating best practices on data governance, liaising with UNDP's partnership team to establish partnerships, and providing technical expertise to manage the CDO's Country Digital programmes delivery. Other duties may be assigned as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Data Science, Public Administration, Law, Economics, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor's degree) in the aforementioned areas, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in data governance, data privacy, or data ethics is required for those with a master's degree, while candidates with a bachelor's degree must have at least 7 years of experience. Demonstrated experience in project management and data analysis is essential, along with a strong understanding of digital public infrastructure and data exchange implementation in the public sector.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Data Science, Public Administration, Law, or Economics. In cases where candidates hold a bachelor's degree, they must have additional qualifying experience to meet the educational requirements. This ensures that the candidate has a solid foundation in the necessary theoretical and practical aspects of data governance and management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience for candidates with a master's degree, or 7 years for those with a bachelor's degree. This experience should be specifically in the areas of data governance, data privacy, or data ethics. Candidates should also have demonstrated experience in project management and data analysis, which are critical for the successful execution of the responsibilities associated with this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, working knowledge of French, another official UN language, or a local language is considered advantageous. This linguistic capability is important for effective communication and collaboration within the diverse international context of UNDP's operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in New York and is part of UNDP's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. UNDP encourages applications from individuals belonging to marginalized or excluded populations, and emphasizes the importance of diversity in its workforce. The organization also advises US Permanent Residents about the implications of accepting a staff position with UNDP, including the requirement to relinquish their US Permanent Resident status.