INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION (ITU)
Overview:
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the premier United Nations specialized agency responsible for issues related to information and communication technologies (ICTs). With a global mandate to connect the world, ITU plays a pivotal role in coordinating the global radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits to prevent interference and optimize utilization. The organization strives to improve communication infrastructure, especially in developing countries, ensuring equitable access and fostering innovation. ITU develops and maintains international standards for telecommunications and ICTs, facilitating seamless interoperability among diverse systems and networks worldwide. It also organizes major global telecommunications events, conferences, and forums, bringing together government officials, industry leaders, and experts to exchange ideas, share knowledge, and promote collaborative approaches towards building a more inclusive digital world.
Roster – Digital Transformation Consultant for Asia and the Pacific
Vacancy Notice No: 1979
Sector: BDT (Telecommunication Development Bureau)
Department: Regional Offices
Country of Contract: Remote (Home-based)
Duty Station: Home Based
Position Details:
- Position Number: [[positionNumber]]
- Grade: [[PositionGrade]]
- Type of Contract: Roster (a pool of qualified consultants available for various assignments)
- Duration: Various assignments, depending on project needs and funding cycles
- Recruitment: Open to external candidates
- Application Deadline: 31 December 2025, Midnight Geneva Time
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT
The Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) oversees the planning, coordination, and implementation of ITU’s development activities aimed at expanding and enhancing telecommunication and ICT services worldwide. BDT focuses on formulating policies, strategies, and projects that promote universal access to affordable, high-quality, and secure ICTs. Its ultimate goal is to empower societies and foster sustainable development through inclusive digital transformation.
BDT is structured into four primary functional departments:
- Operations Coordination Department (Office of the Deputy to the Director) (DDR): Ensures smooth operational execution and coordination across projects.
- Projects, Partnerships & Digital Skills Department (PPS): Manages project implementation, partnerships, and capacity building initiatives.
- Digital Networks & Environment Department (DNE): Focuses on infrastructure, networks, and digital environment policies.
- Digital Knowledge Society Department (DKS): Deals with digital literacy, knowledge sharing, and societal impacts of ICT.
Regional offices serve as vital links, providing technical assistance, policy advice, and support tailored to the needs of Member States in their respective regions. Regional Directors, reporting to the Director of BDT, coordinate efforts and ensure alignment with global strategies and regional priorities.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2022 (WTDC-22) underscored “Digital Transformation” as a core priority for the current development cycle and adopted a strategic resolution titled “Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development” (WGPLEN/1, Kigali, 2022). This initiative aims to harness digital technologies to accelerate socio-economic development and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Key outcomes from WTDC-22 related to digital transformation include:
- Strengthening the capacity of ITU member countries to adopt and leverage emerging ICTs for economic and social growth.
- Promoting integration of ICT innovation in national development strategies through public-private partnerships.
- Building human and institutional capacities to foster sustainable digital ecosystems.
- Recognizing digitalization as a critical enabler for social and economic recovery, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In Asia and the Pacific, digital transformation is increasingly embedded in national policies, with many countries actively developing strategies to digitize public services, enhance connectivity, and foster innovation. The pandemic has accelerated digital adoption across sectors, highlighting the critical importance of resilient and inclusive digital ecosystems.
Challenges in the Region:
Member countries, especially Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), face multiple hurdles in realizing the full benefits of digital transformation. These include:
- Fragmented digital initiatives often executed in silos without cohesive frameworks.
- Lack of interoperability and coordination among digital projects.
- Insufficient platforms for cross-sectoral and cross-country collaboration.
- Limited national policies aligned with a whole-of-government approach.
- Need for capacity development in digital policy formulation, implementation, and management.
To address these issues, ITU emphasizes the development of comprehensive digital transformation policies, strategies, and national frameworks that integrate technological, institutional, and human capacities.
TERMS OF REFERENCE
Under the supervision of the Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, and the Area Representative for Southeast Asia & Timor Leste, or any designated ITU staff member, the Consultant will:
- Develop and enhance policies, strategies, masterplans, and roadmaps related to digital transformation, including digital economy, digital society, and digital government strategies.
- Design, develop, or strengthen technical architectures, platforms, and digital applications that support a whole-of-government approach, ensuring interoperability and scalability.
- Organize regional, subregional, and national workshops and training sessions aimed at capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge sharing based on direct country assistance, stakeholder consultations, and analysis.
- Facilitate stakeholder consultations on digital transformation policies and strategies, ensuring inclusiveness and alignment with national development goals.
- Conduct comprehensive studies on digital transformation challenges, opportunities, and best practices at various levels, providing actionable policy recommendations.
CONCRETE DELIVERABLES
- Finalized reports, presentations, and documentation related to digital transformation strategies, policies, masterplans, roadmaps, and case studies.
- Documentation of stakeholder engagement processes, including summaries of consultations, trainings, and workshops.
- Development of training materials, knowledge resources, and methodological frameworks for digital transformation assessment and implementation.
- Clear methodologies for the development, assessment, and monitoring of digital transformation initiatives.
- Tailored deliverables based on specific country needs and project priorities, with flexibility for adjustments as per the Terms of Reference.
COMPETENCIES
- Proven program management skills with the ability to coordinate multi-stakeholder initiatives.
- Strong research, analytical, and drafting abilities, with experience in preparing reports, policy documents, and strategic plans.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
- Demonstrated capacity to work independently and take initiative.
- Deep understanding of digital government, digital services, community networks, and enabling environments for digital transformation.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
Education:
- University degree in engineering, sciences, economics, social sciences, law, education, management, business administration, telecommunications/ICTs, or an equivalent qualification from a reputable institution.
- An advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in relevant fields would be a significant advantage.
Experience:
- Minimum of seven (7) years of professional experience in developing or managing international technical assistance projects related to digital strategies, digital government, or ICT policies.
- Demonstrated experience in designing, implementing, and managing digital transformation initiatives at the national or regional level.
- Proven ability to work with government agencies, private sector, and development partners in digital projects.
Languages:
- Proficiency in English at an advanced level is required.
REMUNERATION
The consultancy fee will range between USD 250 and USD 430 per day, commensurate with the candidate’s experience, expertise, and the scope of work. The specific daily rate will be finalized during the contracting process.
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