Deputy Director, CSI Digital FAO and Agro-Informatics Division

Organizational Context

The Digital FAO and Agro-Informatics Division (CSI) is responsible for all Information Technology (IT) activities within the Organization. CSI defines FAO IT policies, strategy, IT architecture, and standards. It provides digital products and services essential for delivering the Organization's mandate and supporting global operations. CSI manages the FAO Digital Workplace, enabling secure access to digital resources and data for personnel worldwide, regardless of location or time zone. The position is based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Director, CSI, the Deputy Director will support the strategic and operational delivery of the Digital Workplace Stream (Global Corporate IT Services). This role involves providing strategic, managerial, and technical leadership for the Division's work and facilitating corporate, divisional, and interdivisional activities. The Deputy Director will lead the day-to-day delivery and operations of FAO's Digital Workplace, including its IT systems, applications, and services. They will also lead the portfolio of projects related to corporate IT systems, encompassing capital expenditure, modernization, and digital transformation initiatives globally. The position requires effective management of financial and human resources, advising on IT strategies, governance, and standards, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Responsibilities

Lead the day-to-day delivery and operations of the FAO Digital Workplace, including Global Corporate IT systems, applications, and services such as ERP, business efficiency applications, platform services, global support, collaboration platforms, web platforms, and digital ways of working. Manage a portfolio of projects for corporate IT systems, including capital expenditure and global digital transformation initiatives. Support the Director in overall management and technical leadership, including strategic vision, planning, quality control, and program implementation. Ensure effective use of financial and human resources. Advise on IT strategies, governance, and standards. Empower Unit Leaders with planning, management, and monitoring of team results, providing budgetary oversight and fostering cross-divisional collaboration. Coordinate communication and collaboration within and across teams, promoting an efficient, results-based work environment. Ensure a fit-for-purpose approach to delivering and operating Corporate IT services. Foster a motivated workforce through recruitment, mentoring, coaching, and staff development. Enhance internal FAO partnerships and advocate for the Division's work externally. Represent the Organization in meetings and act as Officer-in-Charge in the Director's absence.

Work Experience

Minimum twelve years of relevant experience in management and operational aspects of delivering ICT in large organizations, including technical and managerial experience. Extensive experience in delivering complex IT projects globally and in decentralized organizations with field support. Experience in managing large teams, including mentoring and staff development. Experience in fast-paced environments with tight deadlines. Ability to work effectively in an international setting with diverse nationalities and cultural backgrounds.

Skills

Demonstrated ability to lead teams and collaborate with specialists in IT infrastructure, software development, IT services, architecture, innovation, and strategy. Skills in participatory strategic planning, results management, and budgetary oversight. Proven negotiation and diplomacy skills. Strong analytical skills with the ability to articulate ideas clearly, orally and in writing. Understanding of the digital economy and digital transformation in agrifood systems and rural development.

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