Senior Digital Development Specialist Digital Economy

The World Bank Group

311d

About The Position

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 economy.

Requirements

• Master's degree in digital economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration, Public Policy, or a related field.
• At least 8 years of professional experience in digital economy strategy, digital infrastructure development, emerging technology adoption, fintech, or e-commerce.
• Proven ability to design and implement national digital economy policies, regulatory frameworks, and investment strategies.
• Deep understanding of AI, blockchain, cloud computing, IoT, cybersecurity, digital trade, and data governance.
• Experience in leading complex, multi-stakeholder digital transformation programs across both developed and emerging markets.
• Strong knowledge of digital financial services, e-commerce regulations, cross-border data flows, and competition policies.
• Demonstrated ability to forge strategic alliances with major technology firms, international development organizations, venture capital firms, and policymakers.
• Track record of publishing research, delivering keynote speeches, and leading capacity-building programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the digital economy transformation program, identifying key investment priorities and fostering digital innovation across sectors.
• Provide thought leadership and policy guidance on digital trade, fintech, e-commerce, and ICT industry development.
• Engage with government officials, private-sector stakeholders, and development partners to promote investment in digital infrastructure, digital finance, and innovation ecosystems.
• Lead the design and support the regions to implement digital solutions leveraging AI, IoT, blockchain, and cloud computing.
• Provide expert guidance on regulatory frameworks, digital financial services, e-commerce policies, and data governance.
• Ensure compliance with data privacy, cybersecurity, and ethical AI standards.
• Lead the development of scalable digital platforms and ecosystems that drive job creation, digital entrepreneurship, and smart industry growth.
• Lead on the advice and support to regional and country teams in the design, execution, and evaluation of digital economy initiatives.
• Lead on the collaboration with the Vice Presidencies, regional teams, and government agencies to integrate digital technologies within existing service frameworks.
• Lead the collation of cutting-edge solutions by keeping strong linkages with private sector technology firms, financial institutions, and industry leaders.
• Lead the development of monitoring and impact assessment frameworks to track progress and effectiveness of digital economy programs.
• Lead analytical work on emerging digital economy trends, digital inclusion, and industry modernization.
• 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.

Benefits

• Retirement plan
• Medical insurance
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• Paid leave including parental leave
• Reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Master's degree