Consultant, Digital Economy

• Provide senior strategic and advisory support to the Director, Digital Economy, on portfolio strategy and program quality.
• Lead the design and implementation planning of a flagship Pan-African AI initiative including its theory of change, budget, and monitoring framework.
• Ensure technical and program quality assurance for Digital Economy investments and partner proposals.
• Support integration of AI and digital economy approaches into program design to improve youth employment and livelihoods.
• Translate digital and AI trends into practical opportunities across sectors like agrifood systems, entrepreneurship, and climate resilience.
• Conduct evidence reviews and landscape analyses on AI, digital economy, and youth livelihoods in Africa.
• Facilitate collaboration among public, private, academic, and ecosystem actors to connect technology with youth livelihood outcomes.
• Document learning and program design approaches and prepare monthly reports on insights, risks, and priorities.

• PhD preferred in computer science, engineering, data science, information systems, technology, agritech, economics, or related fields; exceptional candidates with a Master's degree and substantial published research focused on Africa or similar economies will be considered.
• At least 12 years of relevant experience including doctoral or post-doctoral research, with substantial experience in digital technology, skills development, enterprise productivity, livelihoods, or work enablement in Africa.
• Experience working with African research and innovation institutions is a strong advantage.
• Proven track record of designing or supporting large-scale programs, partnerships, or digital products with measurable livelihood or employment outcomes.
• Practical understanding of responsible AI, data governance, digital inclusion, and ethical technology deployment in African contexts.
• Experience working at the intersection of technology and economic development, from concept to implementation.
• Research or delivery experience applying digital technologies, data, or AI in sectors such as agriculture, informal enterprise, manufacturing, financial inclusion, or digital work in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Strong knowledge of African labour markets and youth employment challenges and opportunities.
• Experience collaborating with technology companies, startups, digital platforms, innovation ecosystems, or AI-enabled solutions.
• Ability to produce high-quality analytical, technical, and program-design outputs independently.
• High professionalism and integrity aligned with the Foundation's values.

Apply on the employer's application page. The closing date for applications is Thursday, 29 October 2026.