TITLE: E-government Specialist - Consultant
UNIT: Data for Development in Nepal Programme, Phase II
REPORTS TO: Project Director
LOCATION: Kathmandu
PERIOD OF CONTRACT: April 2024 – March 2025

1. BACKGROUND:

The Government of Nepal (GoN) has established an E-Governance Commission under the chairmanship of Prime Minister of Nepal. The aim of the commission is improving governance and service delivery through digital technology adoption and streamlined business process. Some of the key development by the Commission includes decision for proceedings for consent from Cabinet for drafting an e-Governance Bill, creation of a Data Exchange Platform Business case, Technical Audit of GoN Systems, articulation of a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Strategy, Identification of Critical Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Infrastructure with a Business Continuity Plan, drafting of a Personal Data Protection Policy, and leadership in stakeholder coordination for the Digital Nepal Framework Implementation.

The Asia Foundation aims to support this initiative by proposing a comprehensive set of strategic initiatives crucial for achieving the objectives outlined by the E-Governance Commission. These initiatives cover various activities, including capacity building, standardization of data, systems, and processes, and piloting an approach to assess usability. The project objectives include Enhance Exposure to State-of-the-Art e- governance Systems, Communication and Engagement, and lay the foundational work for the implementation of e-governance in Nepal.

2. RELATIONSHIPS

Internal

Extensive interaction with members of the Data for Development team, governance team, and other program units within the Foundation.

External

Close and regular contact with government officials, development partners, private sector and civil society organizations, professional organizations, and academic and other local institutions.

3. REQUIREMENTS

Education

Master’s degree in development studies, law, public policy, public administration, political science, economics, statistics, international development, social sciences, information technology, or any other relevant field.

Experience

Minimum five years of relevant experience with knowledge of relevant working experience with government on information technology-based projects, project management and coordination, and project monitoring. Additional knowledge or experience in the E-governance is preferred.

Other

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in English and Nepali, and the ability to harmoniously interact with people from a variety of cultural and professional backgrounds. Time management skills, ability to work under pressure, and multi-task. Willingness to travel to districts across the country. Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

4. JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Under direct supervision of the respective Project Director for the Data for Development, the incumbent will be required to carry out the following main tasks regularly:

Program Support and Management

• Lead the domain of e-Governance and provide strategic advice on related issues, and support coordination of program initiatives.
• Provide support on all administrative, budgetary, technical, and programmatic aspects of the project.
• Perform regular financial and administrative duties necessary for the successful and timely project implementation.
• Perform regular planning revisions; development of reports; and presentation of information on the status of the project.
• Develop various work plans for the components of the Project and be responsible for their implementation.
• Support timely coordination and implementation of recruitment and deployment of experts and partners to support Project implementation.
• Support in the formulation and update of project risks, issues, monitoring, and evaluation as well as targets and results and provision of regular update.
• Serve as the focal person of the E-Government Commission and provide them with backstopping support as required.
• Performing other tasks as required, consistent with these responsibilities, and as assigned by the Supervisor or designate

Financial Management

• Assist in negotiating program contents and budget allocations with potential partners
• Facilitate grant payments in accordance with monthly spending targets
• Coordinate with program staff and Finance & Grants unit on financial reporting of assigned projects and verification of grantees
• Following Foundation policies and practices, ensure that all financial documentation related to project activities is prepared, updated, and settled, including supporting documents

Other Responsibilities

• Provide support to other ongoing programs and activities of the Foundation as may be necessary.
• Other duties as assigned by the Program Officer or designate.

Applicants are requested to read through the job description above for the position. Job shall be applied through the Foundation Online Job Application form HERE by April 14, 2024. Please attach your Curricular Vitae (CV) along with a cover letter describing suitability for the position in the Job Application form. In case of any technical difficulties, queries can be forwarded to [email protected]. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Telephone calls will not be entertained.

The Asia Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive office environment. Women and people from economically and socially excluded groups are encouraged to apply.