UNDP in the Arab States region
Strategy Expert for Linguistic Diversity in AI
UNDP in the Arab States region, Topeka, Kansas, United States
Strategy Expert for Linguistic Diversity in AI
Vacancy Type:
International Personnel Service Agreement (IPSA)
Bureau:
Bureau for Policy and Programme Support
Contract Duration:
10 months (131 days within 10 months, no renewal)
Date Posted:
11/06/2025
Apply By:
11/21/2025
Location:
Home Based
Grade:
IPSA-10
Background UNDP works with countries to expand people’s choices for a fairer, sustainable future, as envisioned by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Digital technology is a fundamental driver of change, and UNDP is implementing the Digital Strategy 2022‑2025 to harness digital for development. The Digital, AI & Innovation (DAI) Hub leads this effort, supporting inclusive digital ecosystems and internal transformation. The DAI Hub leads UNDP’s Local Language Accelerator Programme, a global initiative to accelerate inclusive access to data in low‑resource languages, and the AI Hub for Sustainable Development accelerates sustainable AI‑driven growth in Africa. UNDP’s Local Language Accelerator Programme focuses on accelerating inclusive access to and local use of data in low‑resource languages, ensuring digital products are available in native local languages spoken by more than 3 billion people.
Duties and Responsibilities
Co‑manage design and lead implementation of UNDP’s Local Language Accelerator Programme; deliver results in at least 9 countries
Develop recommendations for strategic direction and delivery mechanism
Manage country implementations and guide the Data & AI Project Analyst to achieve results in at least 9 countries
Maintain and scale stakeholder relationships by engaging with funders, co‑implementors and experts on closing the language gap in AI and supporting resource mobilization for the DAI Hub on linguistic diversity in AI
Co‑manage design and lead implementation of UNDP’s Global Campaign on “Every Language Matters”
Work with UNDP’s knowledge & strategy team to define strategic approach and ensure smooth implementation
Secure meaningful commitments from at least 5 governments
Lead the implementation of at least 2 events on the campaign with high‑level participation
Contribute to UNDP’s knowledge products (e.g., blogs, white papers) and global advocacy on linguistic diversity in AI, in coordination with the communication specialist and knowledge & strategy lead
The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organisation.
The Strategy Expert for Linguistic Diversity in AI reports to the Data Capability Lead, Digital & AI Programmes at the Digital, AI and Innovation Hub in UNDP’s Bureau for Policy and Programme Support.
Core Competencies
Achieve Results
Level 2: Scale up solutions and simplify processes, balance speed and accuracy
Think Innovatively
Level 2: Offer new ideas/open to new approaches, demonstrate systemic/integrated thinking
Learn Continuously
Level 2: Go outside comfort zone, learn from others and support their learning
Adapt with Agility
Level 2: Adapt processes/approaches to new situations, involve others in change process
Act with Determination
Level 3: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results
Engage and Partner
Level 3: Political savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion inter‑agency collaboration
Enable Diversity and Inclusion
Level 2: Facilitate conversations to bridge differences, consider in decision‑making
Cross‑Functional & Technical Competencies
Business Direction & Strategy
Entrepreneurial Thinking
Identify and seize opportunities to service and add value to clients, create clarity around UNDP value proposition to beneficiaries and partners, develop clear service offers responding to client needs in line with UNDP’s organizational priorities and mandate
Negotiation and Influence
Reach a common understanding/agreement, persuade others resolve points of difference through a dialogue, negotiate mutually acceptable solutions and create win‑win situations
Business Management
Partnerships Management
Build and maintain partnerships with wide networks of stakeholders, governments, civil society and private sector partners, experts and others in line with UNDP strategy and policies
Results‑based Management
Ability to manage and implement strategies, programmes and projects with a focus at improved performance and demonstrable results. Knowledge and understanding of relevant theories, concepts, methodologies, instruments and tools
Digital
Artificial Intelligence Thought Leadership
Deep understanding of current and emerging trends in AI, along with their social, ethical, and economic implications, including data privacy and human rights. Ability to engage with industry experts, government representatives, and academics to stay updated on latest trends and to form partnerships. Strong skills in conducting and interpreting research to support thought leadership initiatives, including white papers, policy briefs, or case studies. Understanding of global trends and cultural nuances, as they relate to the field of AI. Familiarity with international laws and standards regarding technology, particularly in a multi‑stakeholder environment like the UN
Co‑creation
Ability to design and facilitate a process that enables a diverse group of stakeholders to solve a common problem, develop a practice or create knowledge together. Ability to embrace diversity, work with diverse group of stakeholders, understand their interests, perspectives and views and tap into them as a source for creativity. Ability to facilitate processes and create conditions that are open for diverse inputs, stimulate collaboration and sharing
Communications
Advocacy strategy and implementation
Ability to create and implement advocacy strategies which lead to impactful change
Education and Experience Requirements
Education:
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Public Administration, International Development, Law, Economics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field required. A first‑level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the areas stated above in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree
Experience:
Minimum of 5 years (with master’s degree) or 7 years (with bachelor’s degree) of experience in international development, the technology sector (data/AI) or public sector required. Demonstrated experience in project leadership of multi‑year projects, engaging with policymakers in public and/or private sector within the scope of digital transformation, guiding junior team members, and deep understanding of challenges and opportunities in closing the language gap in AI
Desired Skills
Experience in designing and/or implementing global advocacy campaigns
Deep understanding of inclusive digital transformation, including digital public infrastructure
Demonstrated experience in capturing and synthesizing information on an ongoing basis to produce analysis and recommendations
Demonstrated experience working with the UN or other large‑scale development organization
Demonstrated experience in resource mobilization desired
Comfort with ambiguity: ability to navigate unstructured or evolving work environments in a composed and professional manner. Agile in making progress even when specific outcomes or processes aren’t clear. Constantly show a willingness to iterate and learn as you go, particularly in fast‑changing environments. Highly adaptable with the ability to confidently shift priorities or stakeholder needs
Problem‑solving: proactively seek solutions when identifying gaps, inefficiencies and/or roadblocks. Effectively manage competing priorities while also maintaining quality and speed. Able to communicate solutions clearly and work in a highly coordinated way, collaboratively across different teams to implement them
Systems‑thinking: bring a structured mindset to designing scalable, sustainable processes. Strong ability to recognize interdependencies across a wide range of complex projects. Ability to spot patterns and anticipate cross‑functions impacts across several programs and teams
Equal Opportunity As an equal‑opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination.
UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.
Sexual Harassment, Exploitation, and Abuse of Authority UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.
Scam Alert UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. For further information, please see www.undp.org/scam-alert.
Contract Modality This is a short‑term IPSA position (131 days within 10 months, with no possibility of renewal).
To see the details of the contract modality please check International Personnel Service Agreement Policy Document.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
International Personnel Service Agreement (IPSA)
Bureau:
Bureau for Policy and Programme Support
Contract Duration:
10 months (131 days within 10 months, no renewal)
Date Posted:
11/06/2025
Apply By:
11/21/2025
Location:
Home Based
Grade:
IPSA-10
Background UNDP works with countries to expand people’s choices for a fairer, sustainable future, as envisioned by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Digital technology is a fundamental driver of change, and UNDP is implementing the Digital Strategy 2022‑2025 to harness digital for development. The Digital, AI & Innovation (DAI) Hub leads this effort, supporting inclusive digital ecosystems and internal transformation. The DAI Hub leads UNDP’s Local Language Accelerator Programme, a global initiative to accelerate inclusive access to data in low‑resource languages, and the AI Hub for Sustainable Development accelerates sustainable AI‑driven growth in Africa. UNDP’s Local Language Accelerator Programme focuses on accelerating inclusive access to and local use of data in low‑resource languages, ensuring digital products are available in native local languages spoken by more than 3 billion people.
Duties and Responsibilities
Co‑manage design and lead implementation of UNDP’s Local Language Accelerator Programme; deliver results in at least 9 countries
Develop recommendations for strategic direction and delivery mechanism
Manage country implementations and guide the Data & AI Project Analyst to achieve results in at least 9 countries
Maintain and scale stakeholder relationships by engaging with funders, co‑implementors and experts on closing the language gap in AI and supporting resource mobilization for the DAI Hub on linguistic diversity in AI
Co‑manage design and lead implementation of UNDP’s Global Campaign on “Every Language Matters”
Work with UNDP’s knowledge & strategy team to define strategic approach and ensure smooth implementation
Secure meaningful commitments from at least 5 governments
Lead the implementation of at least 2 events on the campaign with high‑level participation
Contribute to UNDP’s knowledge products (e.g., blogs, white papers) and global advocacy on linguistic diversity in AI, in coordination with the communication specialist and knowledge & strategy lead
The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organisation.
The Strategy Expert for Linguistic Diversity in AI reports to the Data Capability Lead, Digital & AI Programmes at the Digital, AI and Innovation Hub in UNDP’s Bureau for Policy and Programme Support.
Core Competencies
Achieve Results
Level 2: Scale up solutions and simplify processes, balance speed and accuracy
Think Innovatively
Level 2: Offer new ideas/open to new approaches, demonstrate systemic/integrated thinking
Learn Continuously
Level 2: Go outside comfort zone, learn from others and support their learning
Adapt with Agility
Level 2: Adapt processes/approaches to new situations, involve others in change process
Act with Determination
Level 3: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results
Engage and Partner
Level 3: Political savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion inter‑agency collaboration
Enable Diversity and Inclusion
Level 2: Facilitate conversations to bridge differences, consider in decision‑making
Cross‑Functional & Technical Competencies
Business Direction & Strategy
Entrepreneurial Thinking
Identify and seize opportunities to service and add value to clients, create clarity around UNDP value proposition to beneficiaries and partners, develop clear service offers responding to client needs in line with UNDP’s organizational priorities and mandate
Negotiation and Influence
Reach a common understanding/agreement, persuade others resolve points of difference through a dialogue, negotiate mutually acceptable solutions and create win‑win situations
Business Management
Partnerships Management
Build and maintain partnerships with wide networks of stakeholders, governments, civil society and private sector partners, experts and others in line with UNDP strategy and policies
Results‑based Management
Ability to manage and implement strategies, programmes and projects with a focus at improved performance and demonstrable results. Knowledge and understanding of relevant theories, concepts, methodologies, instruments and tools
Digital
Artificial Intelligence Thought Leadership
Deep understanding of current and emerging trends in AI, along with their social, ethical, and economic implications, including data privacy and human rights. Ability to engage with industry experts, government representatives, and academics to stay updated on latest trends and to form partnerships. Strong skills in conducting and interpreting research to support thought leadership initiatives, including white papers, policy briefs, or case studies. Understanding of global trends and cultural nuances, as they relate to the field of AI. Familiarity with international laws and standards regarding technology, particularly in a multi‑stakeholder environment like the UN
Co‑creation
Ability to design and facilitate a process that enables a diverse group of stakeholders to solve a common problem, develop a practice or create knowledge together. Ability to embrace diversity, work with diverse group of stakeholders, understand their interests, perspectives and views and tap into them as a source for creativity. Ability to facilitate processes and create conditions that are open for diverse inputs, stimulate collaboration and sharing
Communications
Advocacy strategy and implementation
Ability to create and implement advocacy strategies which lead to impactful change
Education and Experience Requirements
Education:
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Public Administration, International Development, Law, Economics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field required. A first‑level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the areas stated above in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree
Experience:
Minimum of 5 years (with master’s degree) or 7 years (with bachelor’s degree) of experience in international development, the technology sector (data/AI) or public sector required. Demonstrated experience in project leadership of multi‑year projects, engaging with policymakers in public and/or private sector within the scope of digital transformation, guiding junior team members, and deep understanding of challenges and opportunities in closing the language gap in AI
Desired Skills
Experience in designing and/or implementing global advocacy campaigns
Deep understanding of inclusive digital transformation, including digital public infrastructure
Demonstrated experience in capturing and synthesizing information on an ongoing basis to produce analysis and recommendations
Demonstrated experience working with the UN or other large‑scale development organization
Demonstrated experience in resource mobilization desired
Comfort with ambiguity: ability to navigate unstructured or evolving work environments in a composed and professional manner. Agile in making progress even when specific outcomes or processes aren’t clear. Constantly show a willingness to iterate and learn as you go, particularly in fast‑changing environments. Highly adaptable with the ability to confidently shift priorities or stakeholder needs
Problem‑solving: proactively seek solutions when identifying gaps, inefficiencies and/or roadblocks. Effectively manage competing priorities while also maintaining quality and speed. Able to communicate solutions clearly and work in a highly coordinated way, collaboratively across different teams to implement them
Systems‑thinking: bring a structured mindset to designing scalable, sustainable processes. Strong ability to recognize interdependencies across a wide range of complex projects. Ability to spot patterns and anticipate cross‑functions impacts across several programs and teams
Equal Opportunity As an equal‑opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination.
UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.
Sexual Harassment, Exploitation, and Abuse of Authority UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.
Scam Alert UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. For further information, please see www.undp.org/scam-alert.
Contract Modality This is a short‑term IPSA position (131 days within 10 months, with no possibility of renewal).
To see the details of the contract modality please check International Personnel Service Agreement Policy Document.
#J-18808-Ljbffr