In today’s complex development and humanitarian landscape, data is no longer just a support function—it is a strategic asset that shapes decisions, drives accountability, and amplifies impact. UNICEF, the world’s leading organization working for children in more than 190 countries and territories, continues to place evidence, innovation, and analytics at the heart of its mission.
In line with this commitment, UNICEF Côte d’Ivoire has opened an exciting internal opportunity for a Data and Analytics Specialist (Data and AI Management), P-3, based in Abidjan, on a one-year Temporary Appointment.
This role is designed for professionals who believe that meaningful data, when transformed into actionable insights, can fundamentally improve the lives of children. It is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of data analytics, artificial intelligence, policy advocacy, and programme performance—contributing directly to national development priorities and global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
UNICEF’s Mission and the Power of Data
UNICEF’s mandate is rooted in one core principle: every child has the right to survive, thrive, and reach their full potential. Achieving this at scale requires more than passion—it requires strong evidence, reliable systems, and intelligent use of data.
Under UNICEF’s Strategic Plan 2026–2029, “Generate and Harness Evidence” is reaffirmed as a key organizational strategy. This reflects a growing recognition that development effectiveness and humanitarian performance depend on timely access to the right data, clear analytics, and well-designed monitoring systems. Data must not only exist—it must be understandable, accessible, and actionable.
In Côte d’Ivoire, a middle-income country with expanding national data systems, the Government—working closely with UNICEF and development partners—has made significant progress in generating socio-economic evidence through surveys such as DHS, MICS, and national censuses. UNICEF has complemented these efforts through evaluations, research, and advanced programme analytics, creating a rich ecosystem of data that can be leveraged to strengthen child-focused policies and programmes.
The Role at a Glance
The Data and Analytics Specialist (Data and AI Management) position sits within the Planning, Monitoring, Data and Evidence (PMDE) Section and reports directly to the Chief PMDE. The role supports both development and humanitarian programming by transforming complex datasets into insights that inform planning, advocacy, and decision-making.
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At its core, this position focuses on:
- Data packaging and visualization
- Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Capacity building for staff and partners
- Strengthening knowledge management systems
The incumbent will work closely with sectoral teams, government counterparts, national institutes, and implementing partners—ensuring that data is not only technically sound but also aligned with country programme priorities and national development agendas.
Turning Data into Insight: Key Responsibilities
1. Data Packaging and Visualization
One of the most visible aspects of this role is the transformation of raw data into compelling, user-friendly products. The specialist will integrate data from corporate systems and external sources to create unified datasets that feed into dashboards, scorecards, and standard reports.
Using tools such as Microsoft Power BI, the incumbent will:
- Develop analytical models and interactive dashboards with sectoral colleagues
- Highlight trends, gaps, trajectories, and convergence across programme areas
- Translate technical findings into advocacy and communication products
- Provide clean, well-structured datasets to support advanced analysis
The ultimate goal is to ensure that decision-makers—from government leaders to UNICEF’s Country Management Team—can quickly grasp what the data is saying and act accordingly.
2. AI and Machine Learning Integration
Innovation is central to this role. The Data and Analytics Specialist will design and deploy AI-driven solutions that enhance data analysis and decision-making. This includes developing and maintaining machine learning models, monitoring their performance, and ensuring alignment with organizational governance and risk standards.
Key responsibilities include:
- Exploring emerging technologies to improve analytics and forecasting
- Aligning AI initiatives with programme priorities and strategic shifts
- Conducting AI risk assessments and ensuring ethical compliance
By responsibly leveraging AI, UNICEF Côte d’Ivoire aims to stay at the forefront of data-driven development while safeguarding integrity and accountability.
3. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing
Sustainable impact requires shared capacity. The incumbent will actively build partnerships with sectoral teams, government counterparts, and national stakeholders—strengthening their ability to use data and knowledge systems effectively.
This includes:
- Training staff on data tools, AI applications, and governance practices
- Developing manuals, documentation, and training materials
- Promoting a culture of collaboration and continuous learning
Through workshops, hands-on support, and knowledge exchange, the specialist will help embed data literacy across the office and among partners.
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4. Knowledge Management for Impact
Beyond analytics, this role plays a strategic function in knowledge management (KM). The specialist will lead the development and implementation of a KM plan aligned with country programme results, ensuring that learning, evidence, and innovation are systematically captured and shared.
Responsibilities include:
- Producing knowledge products such as trend analyses, infographics, and thematic bulletins
- Structuring information for easy access through platforms like SharePoint
- Supporting advocacy, resource mobilization, and fundraising efforts
- Strengthening feedback mechanisms, including in humanitarian contexts
Effective knowledge management ensures that lessons learned today shape better programmes tomorrow.
Impact and Strategic Value
The impact of this role extends far beyond dashboards and reports. By strengthening evidence generation and use, the Data and Analytics Specialist will contribute directly to:
- Improved programme design and monitoring
- Stronger policy advocacy and partnerships
- Evidence-based resource mobilization
- Alignment with national development plans, UNDSCF, and the SDGs
Ultimately, this position enhances UNICEF Côte d’Ivoire’s ability to learn, innovate, and deliver results for children—especially the most vulnerable.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for professionals with a strong background in data science, analytics, economics, public policy, or statistics, combined with practical experience in AI and visualization. A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required, along with proficiency in tools such as Power BI, Python, R, SQL, and machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch.
Fluency in English and French is essential, reflecting the bilingual working environment. Experience in international development, humanitarian data systems, or the UN system is considered a strong asset.
Equally important are UNICEF’s core values—Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability (CRITAS)—and competencies such as collaboration, strategic thinking, innovation, and the ability to manage complexity.
A Commitment to Inclusion and Integrity
UNICEF is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applications are encouraged from all qualified candidates, including women and persons with disabilities. The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct and upholds the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and child safeguarding.
Final Thoughts
The Data and Analytics Specialist (Data and AI Management), P-3 role in Abidjan represents more than a technical position—it is a strategic opportunity to shape how evidence drives action for children. For data professionals passionate about development, innovation, and impact, this role offers a meaningful platform to turn insights into life-changing outcomes.
