Innovation Officer (Science, Technology And Innovation) (AI)

TL;DR

Innovation Officer (Science, Technology and Innovation) (AI): Managing the development and enhancement of the hirify.global STI portal and AI-enabled knowledge systems with an accent on user-centered design and global innovation ecosystems. Focus on integrating open-source LLMs, implementing AI governance, and coordinating cross-sectoral policies for sustainable agrifood systems.

Location: Rome, Italy (Hybrid/Flexible arrangements)

Company

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (hirify.global) supports the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems.

What you will do

• Serve as the project manager for the STI portal, overseeing its development and ongoing AI integration.
• Implement AI-enabled knowledge systems, encouraging the adoption of open-source LLMs and exploring small language models.
• Develop and maintain networks of external organizations and private sector stakeholders to enhance the global innovation ecosystem.
• Organize capacity development activities and create online tools and information kits to be federated within the portal.
• Monitor global science, technology, and innovation trends to ensure the portal remains relevant to sustainable agrifood systems.
• Collaborate with international organizations and internal technical divisions to build technical and financial partnerships.

Requirements

• Advanced university degree (Master's) in computer science, information management, data science, innovation, or related fields.
• 5 years of relevant experience in content management, AI, and community development, preferably focusing on low- and middle-income countries.
• English: Proficiency level C required.
• Another official hirify.global language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish): Intermediate level B required.
• Experience applying Agile approaches and Lean Startup principles.

Nice to have

• Field experience or work experience in multiple geographical locations.
• Expertise in AI prompt engineering, AI agents, and vibe coding.
• Knowledge of Enterprise Architecture and data standards (FAIR, DIAL, IATI, Agrovoc).
• Experience in AI and data governance.

Culture & Benefits

• Inclusive and diverse workplace culture committing to gender and nationality diversity.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Family-friendly policies.
• Professional environment adhering to high standards of integrity and UN values.