What's Happening?
UNICEF is actively recruiting a Digital Impact Manager (Regional T4D) for a fixed-term position based in Nairobi, Kenya. This P-4 level role, within the Regional Services Division - Info and Comm, is crucial for providing technical support and oversight
to Technology for Development (T4D) activities across the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) region. The Digital Impact Manager will guide country program teams in identifying, assessing, and integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and digital innovation into UNICEF programming. The position also focuses on strengthening internal capacity to lead and support T4D-related initiatives. Key responsibilities include digital/data solution implementation, strategic oversight and policy compliance, resource mobilization, portfolio coordination and project management, knowledge management, digital capacity building, digital innovation and AI, and business analysis. The role requires a Master's degree in relevant fields and at least 8 years of professional experience in ICT4D in a large international organization.
Why It's Important?
This recruitment highlights UNICEF's commitment to leveraging technology and digital innovation to achieve its programmatic goals in the ESA region. The Digital Impact Manager will play a pivotal role in ensuring that UNICEF's interventions are not only effective but also technologically advanced and sustainable. By integrating ICT and digital solutions, UNICEF aims to address bottlenecks in program delivery, improve efficiency, and enhance the reach and impact of its initiatives, particularly in areas like health, nutrition, child protection, and education. The focus on strengthening internal capacity and developing partnerships with local solution providers and innovators underscores a strategic approach to building long-term digital resilience and fostering local expertise. This position is critical for driving digital transformation within UNICEF's regional operations and ensuring that technology serves as a powerful tool for child development and welfare.
What's Next?
The selected Digital Impact Manager will be tasked with leading the development and implementation of a technology and digital innovation strategy for the Country Office, bringing visibility to T4D gaps, opportunities, and scale-up strategies. They will also be responsible for building partnerships and networks with various stakeholders, including local solution providers, NGOs, the private sector, and academia, to nurture and test new and innovative technologies. The role involves active participation in program and management processes to integrate digital development and technology innovation into the planning lifecycle. Furthermore, the manager will oversee quality assurance for T4D initiatives, lead in deploying a portfolio approach for common solutions, and contribute to monitoring, evaluation, and learning efforts. The successful candidate will be instrumental in shaping UNICEF's digital footprint and impact in the region.
Beyond the Headlines
The creation and emphasis on a Digital Impact Manager role within UNICEF reflects a broader global trend where humanitarian and development organizations are increasingly recognizing the transformative power of digital technologies. This position is not just about implementing tech solutions but also about fostering a culture of innovation, data-driven decision-making, and digital literacy within the organization and among its partners. The focus on compliance with the Principles for Digital Development and UNICEF's Technology Playbook indicates a commitment to ethical, responsible, and sustainable technology use. This strategic investment in digital leadership can lead to more agile and responsive humanitarian interventions, better data collection and analysis for evidence-based programming, and ultimately, more effective and equitable outcomes for children in challenging environments. It also highlights the growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between technology and social impact.
