Partnerships Specialist for ICT, Cybersecurity and Digital Transformation (Retainer Position)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an independent organization established in 1995, succeeding two decades of operations as part of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) since its inception in 197

• UNOPS is dedicated to helping people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development. As the only self-financed UN organization, it is committed to UN values and operates with private sector efficiency. UNOPS has been active in Serbia since 2000, providing support for socio-economic reforms and facilitating EU accession. The organization also operates in North Macedonia and Montenegro since 2017, focusing on sustainable development, good governance, rule of law, social cohesion, environmental issues, and emergency response. Major projects are funded by the European Union, the Kingdom of Norway, and various governments, including those of Switzerland, Sweden, and local governments. UNOPS Serbia Multi-Country Office (RSMCO) also extends its support to Bosnia and Herzegovina, assessing needs for potential engagements while establishing an in-country presence. The work of UNOPS is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the specific objectives of the countries in which it operates, particularly in the context of the accelerated EU accession of the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership Countries. The RSMCO aims to mobilize additional expertise in EU integration to enhance its capacity and resources for better support to partners.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Specialist will work under the supervision of the Partnerships Specialist (PS) and in close coordination with the RSMCO Director and Head of Programme (HoP). This role involves providing strategic advice for ongoing and future UNOPS operations, contributing to the definition of the RSMCO approach and actions, and guiding the application of knowledge, lessons learned, best practices, and experience to optimize initiatives related to ICT, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. The incumbent will be responsible for identifying, designing, and implementing programs and projects that apply innovative solutions for digitalization, smart technologies, artificial intelligence, and other relevant areas. The role requires a proactive approach to advising on cross-sectorial digital transformation and cybersecurity matters, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and monitoring funding opportunities for projects in the Western Balkans. The Partnerships Specialist will also contribute to the development of narratives for project proposals, analyses, and presentations, and participate in relevant meetings and events to support the RSMCO's objectives regarding EU accession and integration.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic advice on digital transformation and cybersecurity matters relevant to UNOPS operations.
• Guide the RSMCO's strategic and operational engagement in digital transformation and cybersecurity across Western Balkans countries.
• Conduct regular analyses of national and EU trends, policies, and institutional frameworks in digital transformation and cybersecurity.
• Monitor and update on funding opportunities for projects supporting digital transformation and cybersecurity initiatives.
• Facilitate the expansion of the RSMCO network of stakeholders relevant to digital transformation and cybersecurity.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of programs and projects that support countries' development in these areas.
• Provide technical support through narrative inputs for documents, participation in meetings, and advisory sessions.
• Undertake additional tasks as reasonably requested by the Supervisor.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in engineering, ICT, telecommunications, social science, or other relevant fields is required.
• A Bachelor’s degree combined with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of a Master’s degree.
• Minimum of five years of relevant work experience in digital transformation and cybersecurity is required.
• Experience with international organizations, governments, and national institutions in ICT and cybersecurity is an asset.
• Knowledge of cross-sectorial applications of ICT and digital solutions is beneficial.
• Experience in enhancing capacities for digital transformation and cybersecurity in the context of EU accession is an asset.
• Familiarity with UN, EU, and Western Balkans policies and frameworks in ICT and cybersecurity is advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as engineering, ICT, telecommunications, or social science. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be considered acceptable in lieu of a Master’s degree. This educational background is essential to ensure the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of the complexities involved in digital transformation and cybersecurity.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience specifically in the fields of digital transformation and cybersecurity. Candidates should have demonstrated experience working with international organizations, government bodies, and national institutions on ICT and cybersecurity matters. Experience in enhancing the capacities of national institutions in relation to their EU accession paths is particularly valuable. Familiarity with the policies, strategic frameworks, and institutional contexts of the UN, EU, and Western Balkans is also an asset, as it will inform the candidate's ability to navigate the complexities of the role effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of Serbian, Montenegrin, Macedonian, or Bosnian is considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication and collaboration with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the Partnerships Specialist's work in the region.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an International Individual Contractor Agreement (IICA) Retainer, classified at level I-ICA 2 (ICS10). The contract duration is up to 40 working days within one year, with the possibility of extension. Candidates based in a duty station with a national scale may be offered a local equivalent position. It is important to note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes, and applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process, which includes various assessments. UNOPS is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. All personnel are expected to perform their duties in accordance with UN values and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Background checks are conducted on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent on the results of these checks.