Digital Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global partnership consisting of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. Established with 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the organization focuses on providing funding and knowledge to developing countries. The World Bank Group engages with both public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects, utilizing data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The Digital Development Specialist position is situated within the Digital Transformation Vertical Vice Presidency of the World Bank, which was established on July 1, 202

• This unit is tasked with guiding the World Bank Group's efforts to lay the groundwork for a digital economy, enhance digital and data infrastructure, and ensure cybersecurity and data privacy for institutions, businesses, and citizens. The role of the Digital Development Specialist is crucial in supporting client countries in building foundational elements of digital transformation through various engagement pillars and business lines. The specialist will work closely with the Digital Transformation unit in Eastern and Southern Africa, focusing on the digital transformation activities and portfolio in the region, which includes lending, policy, supervision, and analytical work. The position aims to leverage digital technologies to improve public service delivery and stimulate digital innovation and investment in various sectors.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Digital Development Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Contributing to the design, preparation, and implementation of World Bank Group financed digital development investment and policy reform programs, with a focus on policy/legal/regulatory reforms and the development of digital public infrastructure.
• Advising clients on strategies and best practices for developing the foundations of their digital economies, including participation in technical assistance activities.
• Providing technical expertise on ICT policy and regulatory issues to promote competition and innovation in the telecoms sector.
• Supporting the digitization of public administration and public service delivery, including the development of digital identification and data protection measures.
• Collaborating with World Bank colleagues across sectors to leverage digital technologies for improved service delivery.
• Developing innovative approaches to address policy and operational challenges in telecommunications and digital transformation.
• Preparing and supervising the publication of best practice notes and reports on digital transformation policy and regulation.
• Conducting economic and financial analyses to inform project designs and financing plans.
• Preparing technical assistance programs for fragile and conflict-affected countries. 1
• Representing the World Bank at digital development forums and events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in telecommunications, engineering, computer science, law, economics, public policy, or a related field, along with a minimum of 5 years of experience in ICT/Digital Economy policy and regulation or project design and implementation. A strong conceptual and analytical skill set is essential, with the ability to think strategically about the role of digital technologies in socio-economic development. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record in project operations, particularly within the World Bank or similar entities, and possess a firm understanding of digital technology trends relevant to the African context. Strong client engagement skills, excellent written and verbal communication abilities in English (and preferably Amharic), and the capacity to work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field such as telecommunications, engineering, computer science, law, economics, or public policy is required for this position. This educational background should be complemented by a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in ICT/Digital Economy policy and regulation or project design and implementation, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in ICT/Digital Economy policy and regulation, as well as project design and implementation. Candidates should have a proven track record in supporting project operations, particularly in a development context, and should be familiar with the challenges and opportunities present in the African digital landscape. Experience working in fragile and conflict-affected environments is considered an advantage, as is prior work experience in Ethiopia or the surrounding region.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, with Amharic being a preferred language. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, particularly in written form, to deliver technical information clearly and understandably to diverse audiences.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The selected candidate will retain their current appointment status if they are already a World Bank Group staff member.