Senior Digital Development Specialist - Digital Economy
Apply NowCompany: The World Bank Group
Location: Washington, DC 20011
Description:
Senior Digital Development Specialist - Digital Economy
Job #:
req32243
Organization:
World Bank
Sector:
Digital Development
Grade:
GG
Term Duration:
3 years 0 months
Recruitment Type:
International Recruitment
Location:
Washington, DC,United States
Required Language(s):
English
Preferred Language(s):
Closing Date:
3/24/2025 (MM/DD/YYYY) at 11:59pm UTC
Description
Do you want to build a career that is truly worthwhile? Working at the World Bank provides a unique opportunity for you to help our clients solve their greatest development challenges. The World Bank consists of two entities - the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA). It is a global development cooperative owned by 189 member countries. As the largest development bank in the world, the World Bank provides loans, guarantees, risk management products, and advisory services to middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries, and coordinates responses to regional and global challenges. For more information, please visit www.worldbank.org.
Digital Transformation Vice Presidency
The Digital Transformation Vertical Vice Presidency was established on July 1, 2024, and guides World Bank Group efforts to establish the foundations of a digital economy, build and enhance digital and data infrastructure, ensure cybersecurity and data privacy for institutions, businesses, and citizens, and advance digital government services. Digital technologies, including AI and data, present a unique opportunity to accelerate development. The Digital Transformation Vertical has the critical mission of delivering on this development promise. The Digital Vice Presidency and its global and regional teams supports client countries in building the foundational and cross-cutting elements of digital transformation through two engagement pillars, six business lines, and multiple cross-cutting areas:
Digital Core: Building digital infrastructure through broadband network, affordable devices; Enhancing data infrastructure including data centers, cloud solutions and data governance; Enabling AI and cutting-edge technology applications; and Protecting institutions, businesses, and citizens through cybersecurity, data protection & privacy, trust services as well as online safety.
Digital Use: Supporting the Regions and the Verticals of People, Prosperity, Planet, and Infrastructure in the digitalization efforts of clients through Digital Government (digital public infrastructure, digital government services, and digital literacy and training), Digital Economy (national ICT planning, ICT industry and jobs, and smart infra and industry) and Digital Society (digital school, digital health, etc.).
Both pillars are the channels through which this Vice Presidency supports World Bank achieving its objectives in cross-cutting areas like jobs and skills, climate and green, fragility, conflict and violence, and gender and inclusion.
Digital Economy
With a focus on national ICT strategies, ICT governance as well as ICT Industry Development by supporting National ICT Promotion Plans and building IT jobs and startup ecosystems. This includes providing support to the development of smart infrastructure through smart grids, smart cities with digital urban management, and e-mobility initiatives such as ITS, GIS, and autonomous driving. The engagement will also support the Digital Planet initiatives, smart agriculture, smart water management, and green growth industry development, including emission tracking and carbon exchange. Efforts will be made to promote digital prosperity, such as fintech industry development, and digital trade and e-commerce.
Digital Economy closely collaborates and coordinates with relevant Units of the Prosperity, People, Planet and Infrastructure Vice Presidencies and across the World Bank Group to design and deliver its work program. The Unit engages through Regional Vice-Presidential Units and County Management Units to support clients.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
The Senior Digital Development Specialist - Digital Economy will lead the design of transformative digital solutions that accelerate economic growth, enhance public service delivery, and drive digital inclusion for implementation by the regions. This role involves developing and executing large-scale digital strategies, leveraging emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, data analytics, and cloud computing to optimize efficiency and accessibility across key sectors.
The senior specialist will collaborate with the Vice Presidencies on the development and design aspects. The specialist will collaborate, as and if invited by the regions, with governments, private sector leaders, and development partners to build scalable, user-centric digital platforms that foster innovation, financial inclusion, and equitable access to technology.
The senior specialist will provide high-level technical advisory, support capacity-building efforts, and shape policy frameworks that promote cybersecurity, digital trust, and regulatory alignment. With a strong focus on impact measurement and sustainability, the specialist will drive thought leadership, foster strategic partnerships, and position organizations at the forefront of the global digital etc.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership:
Lead and develop the digital economy transformation program, identifying key investment priorities and fostering digital innovation across sectors in support of the Vice Presidencies, regions and Digital Transformation Vice Presidency Units staff.
Provide thought leadership and policy guidance on digital trade, fintech, e-commerce, and ICT industry development. Help teams to shape national and regional digital economy strategies, ensuring alignment with global best practices and emerging technology trends.
Engage with government officials, private-sector stakeholders, and development partners to promote investment in digital infrastructure, digital finance, and innovation ecosystems.
Technical Expertise:
Using the latest technologies, policies and information in the digital economy space, lead the design, and support the regions to implement digital solutions leveraging AI, IoT, blockchain, and cloud computing to enhance productivity and efficiency in key economic sectors.
Provide expert guidance on regulatory frameworks, digital financial services, e-commerce policies, and data governance to support a thriving digital economy.
Ensure compliance with data privacy, cybersecurity, and ethical AI standards, fostering trust and security in digital transactions and services.
Lead the development of scalable digital platforms and ecosystems that drive job creation, digital entrepreneurship, and smart industry growth.
Operational Engagement:
Lead on the advice and support to regional and country teams in the design, execution, and evaluation of digital economy initiatives, ensuring successful implementation and scalability.
Lead on the collaboration with the Vice Presidencies, regional teams, and as/if requested by these teams, work with the government agencies and stakeholders to integrate digital technologies within existing service frameworks. This would include the design and evaluation of digital projects to optimize efficiency and service quality; and coordinate with internal and external partners to align project objectives with client needs.
Lead on the collation of cutting-edge solutions by keeping strong linkages with private sector - technology firms, financial institutions, and industry leaders to ensure that what the Bank is proposing and implementing is in line with the latest possible solutions.
As appropriate, lead the development of monitoring and impact assessment frameworks to track progress and effectiveness of digital economy programs together with the Vice Presidencies and regions.
Knowledge Management and Learning:
Lead analytical work on emerging digital economy trends, digital inclusion, and industry modernization, producing global knowledge products and policy recommendations.
Lead the delivery of training programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives to build digital capabilities among policymakers and industry stakeholders.
Promote cross-sectoral digital integration, ensuring digital solutions drive economic growth in areas such as finance, trade, and public services.
Be a core member of the Digital Transformation community of practice, fostering continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration within the digital development ecosystem.
Lead global analytical work, provide comments to documents that deal with knowledge generation/use and/or implementation from use cases that advance Digital Transformation.
Work with the knowledge academy/hubs, innovation group, Vice Presidencies and regions, work with the Practice Managers and Regional Directors to ensure that best practices and lessons learned are widely disseminated. By being a core member of the digital community of practice, foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation, ensuring that digital initiatives remain relevant, effective, and impactful for client governments and stakeholders.
This role will be instrumental in shaping the digital economy landscape, supporting digital infrastructure growth, and ensuring inclusive and sustainable economic progress through digital transformation.
Selection Criteria
Master's degree in digital economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration, Public Policy, or a related field, with a strong focus on digital transformation, fintech, AI, or data-driven economic development.
At least 8 years of professional experience in digital economy strategy, digital infrastructure development, emerging technology adoption, fintech, or e-commerce, preferably within leading tech firms, international organizations, or global financial institutions.
Proven ability to design and implement national digital economy policies, regulatory frameworks, and investment strategies that drive inclusive economic growth and innovation.
Deep understanding of AI, blockchain, cloud computing, IoT, cybersecurity, digital trade, and data governance, with a track record of integrating these technologies into scalable economic solutions.
Experience in leading complex, multi-stakeholder digital transformation programs across both developed and emerging markets, including engaging with governments, private sector players, financial institutions, and startups.
Strong knowledge of digital financial services, e-commerce regulations, cross-border data flows, and competition policies, ensuring a balanced approach between innovation and regulatory compliance.
Demonstrated ability to forge strategic alliances with major technology firms, international development organizations, venture capital firms, and policymakers to drive digital economic growth.
Track record of publishing research, delivering keynote speeches, and leading capacity-building programs to advance knowledge in the digital economy, innovation ecosystems, and AI-driven economic development.
World Bank Group Core Competencies
The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave, as well as reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.
Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories.
Job #:
req32243
Organization:
World Bank
Sector:
Digital Development
Grade:
GG
Term Duration:
3 years 0 months
Recruitment Type:
International Recruitment
Location:
Washington, DC,United States
Required Language(s):
English
Preferred Language(s):
Closing Date:
3/24/2025 (MM/DD/YYYY) at 11:59pm UTC
Description
Do you want to build a career that is truly worthwhile? Working at the World Bank provides a unique opportunity for you to help our clients solve their greatest development challenges. The World Bank consists of two entities - the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA). It is a global development cooperative owned by 189 member countries. As the largest development bank in the world, the World Bank provides loans, guarantees, risk management products, and advisory services to middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries, and coordinates responses to regional and global challenges. For more information, please visit www.worldbank.org.
Digital Transformation Vice Presidency
The Digital Transformation Vertical Vice Presidency was established on July 1, 2024, and guides World Bank Group efforts to establish the foundations of a digital economy, build and enhance digital and data infrastructure, ensure cybersecurity and data privacy for institutions, businesses, and citizens, and advance digital government services. Digital technologies, including AI and data, present a unique opportunity to accelerate development. The Digital Transformation Vertical has the critical mission of delivering on this development promise. The Digital Vice Presidency and its global and regional teams supports client countries in building the foundational and cross-cutting elements of digital transformation through two engagement pillars, six business lines, and multiple cross-cutting areas:
Digital Core: Building digital infrastructure through broadband network, affordable devices; Enhancing data infrastructure including data centers, cloud solutions and data governance; Enabling AI and cutting-edge technology applications; and Protecting institutions, businesses, and citizens through cybersecurity, data protection & privacy, trust services as well as online safety.
Digital Use: Supporting the Regions and the Verticals of People, Prosperity, Planet, and Infrastructure in the digitalization efforts of clients through Digital Government (digital public infrastructure, digital government services, and digital literacy and training), Digital Economy (national ICT planning, ICT industry and jobs, and smart infra and industry) and Digital Society (digital school, digital health, etc.).
Both pillars are the channels through which this Vice Presidency supports World Bank achieving its objectives in cross-cutting areas like jobs and skills, climate and green, fragility, conflict and violence, and gender and inclusion.
Digital Economy
With a focus on national ICT strategies, ICT governance as well as ICT Industry Development by supporting National ICT Promotion Plans and building IT jobs and startup ecosystems. This includes providing support to the development of smart infrastructure through smart grids, smart cities with digital urban management, and e-mobility initiatives such as ITS, GIS, and autonomous driving. The engagement will also support the Digital Planet initiatives, smart agriculture, smart water management, and green growth industry development, including emission tracking and carbon exchange. Efforts will be made to promote digital prosperity, such as fintech industry development, and digital trade and e-commerce.
Digital Economy closely collaborates and coordinates with relevant Units of the Prosperity, People, Planet and Infrastructure Vice Presidencies and across the World Bank Group to design and deliver its work program. The Unit engages through Regional Vice-Presidential Units and County Management Units to support clients.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
The Senior Digital Development Specialist - Digital Economy will lead the design of transformative digital solutions that accelerate economic growth, enhance public service delivery, and drive digital inclusion for implementation by the regions. This role involves developing and executing large-scale digital strategies, leveraging emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, data analytics, and cloud computing to optimize efficiency and accessibility across key sectors.
The senior specialist will collaborate with the Vice Presidencies on the development and design aspects. The specialist will collaborate, as and if invited by the regions, with governments, private sector leaders, and development partners to build scalable, user-centric digital platforms that foster innovation, financial inclusion, and equitable access to technology.
The senior specialist will provide high-level technical advisory, support capacity-building efforts, and shape policy frameworks that promote cybersecurity, digital trust, and regulatory alignment. With a strong focus on impact measurement and sustainability, the specialist will drive thought leadership, foster strategic partnerships, and position organizations at the forefront of the global digital etc.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership:
Lead and develop the digital economy transformation program, identifying key investment priorities and fostering digital innovation across sectors in support of the Vice Presidencies, regions and Digital Transformation Vice Presidency Units staff.
Provide thought leadership and policy guidance on digital trade, fintech, e-commerce, and ICT industry development. Help teams to shape national and regional digital economy strategies, ensuring alignment with global best practices and emerging technology trends.
Engage with government officials, private-sector stakeholders, and development partners to promote investment in digital infrastructure, digital finance, and innovation ecosystems.
Technical Expertise:
Using the latest technologies, policies and information in the digital economy space, lead the design, and support the regions to implement digital solutions leveraging AI, IoT, blockchain, and cloud computing to enhance productivity and efficiency in key economic sectors.
Provide expert guidance on regulatory frameworks, digital financial services, e-commerce policies, and data governance to support a thriving digital economy.
Ensure compliance with data privacy, cybersecurity, and ethical AI standards, fostering trust and security in digital transactions and services.
Lead the development of scalable digital platforms and ecosystems that drive job creation, digital entrepreneurship, and smart industry growth.
Operational Engagement:
Lead on the advice and support to regional and country teams in the design, execution, and evaluation of digital economy initiatives, ensuring successful implementation and scalability.
Lead on the collaboration with the Vice Presidencies, regional teams, and as/if requested by these teams, work with the government agencies and stakeholders to integrate digital technologies within existing service frameworks. This would include the design and evaluation of digital projects to optimize efficiency and service quality; and coordinate with internal and external partners to align project objectives with client needs.
Lead on the collation of cutting-edge solutions by keeping strong linkages with private sector - technology firms, financial institutions, and industry leaders to ensure that what the Bank is proposing and implementing is in line with the latest possible solutions.
As appropriate, lead the development of monitoring and impact assessment frameworks to track progress and effectiveness of digital economy programs together with the Vice Presidencies and regions.
Knowledge Management and Learning:
Lead analytical work on emerging digital economy trends, digital inclusion, and industry modernization, producing global knowledge products and policy recommendations.
Lead the delivery of training programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives to build digital capabilities among policymakers and industry stakeholders.
Promote cross-sectoral digital integration, ensuring digital solutions drive economic growth in areas such as finance, trade, and public services.
Be a core member of the Digital Transformation community of practice, fostering continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration within the digital development ecosystem.
Lead global analytical work, provide comments to documents that deal with knowledge generation/use and/or implementation from use cases that advance Digital Transformation.
Work with the knowledge academy/hubs, innovation group, Vice Presidencies and regions, work with the Practice Managers and Regional Directors to ensure that best practices and lessons learned are widely disseminated. By being a core member of the digital community of practice, foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation, ensuring that digital initiatives remain relevant, effective, and impactful for client governments and stakeholders.
This role will be instrumental in shaping the digital economy landscape, supporting digital infrastructure growth, and ensuring inclusive and sustainable economic progress through digital transformation.
Selection Criteria
Master's degree in digital economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration, Public Policy, or a related field, with a strong focus on digital transformation, fintech, AI, or data-driven economic development.
At least 8 years of professional experience in digital economy strategy, digital infrastructure development, emerging technology adoption, fintech, or e-commerce, preferably within leading tech firms, international organizations, or global financial institutions.
Proven ability to design and implement national digital economy policies, regulatory frameworks, and investment strategies that drive inclusive economic growth and innovation.
Deep understanding of AI, blockchain, cloud computing, IoT, cybersecurity, digital trade, and data governance, with a track record of integrating these technologies into scalable economic solutions.
Experience in leading complex, multi-stakeholder digital transformation programs across both developed and emerging markets, including engaging with governments, private sector players, financial institutions, and startups.
Strong knowledge of digital financial services, e-commerce regulations, cross-border data flows, and competition policies, ensuring a balanced approach between innovation and regulatory compliance.
Demonstrated ability to forge strategic alliances with major technology firms, international development organizations, venture capital firms, and policymakers to drive digital economic growth.
Track record of publishing research, delivering keynote speeches, and leading capacity-building programs to advance knowledge in the digital economy, innovation ecosystems, and AI-driven economic development.
World Bank Group Core Competencies
The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave, as well as reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.
Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories.