OVERVIEW

Parent Sector : Social and Human Sciences Sector (SHS)

Duty Station: Paris

Job Family: Social and Human Sciences

Type of contract : [[Contract Type]]

Duration of contract : From 7 to 11 months

Recruitment open to : External candidates

Application Deadline (Midnight Paris Time) : 20-01-2025

UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST

UNESCO has the mandate to promote the development of science and technology from an ethical and human rights approach. Under this framework in November 2021, UNESCO developed the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (AI) which was adopted by acclamation by 193 Member States at the 41st session of its General Conference. This document seeks to guide Member States and the private sector in the application of universal principles that promote ethical AI that respects human rights.

The private sector played a crucial role in shaping this Recommendation, actively participating in global and regional consultation forums. During its implementation, the private sector continues to be instrumental, proactively developing mechanisms to mitigate potential ethical risks associated with AI use. Recognizing the strategic importance of engaging companies committed to AI ethics—both developers and users—UNESCO established the AI Ethics Business Council. The Council aims to promote the exchange of best practices, implement ethical impact assessments, and promote an inclusive and equitable regulatory environment.

The Council aims to serve as a platform and network for companies seeking to implement the ethical principles of the Recommendation. The Recommendation proposes 11 policy areas where companies are encouraged to work, either simultaneously or individually, while promoting cross-sector collaboration in AI development.

The Business Council for Ethics of AI Coordinator will support and encourage private sector participation and provide technical assistance in the effective implementation of the Recommendation through the development of materials, documents, analysis and support to ADG/SHS on all aspects of the AI Ethics agenda.

OBJECTIVES

Design and implement the strategy and work plan of the UNESCO Business Council. The Business Council for Ethics of AI Coordinator will be responsible for the management and expansion of this network, ensuring the implementation of the Recommendation and its participation in key initiatives such as the AI Governance Disclosure Initiative UNESCO-Thomson Reuters. He/she will work under the direct supervision of the Head of the Ethics and IA Section of UNESCO and will report to the Assistant Director-General of the Social and Human Sciences Sector (ADG/SHS).

SCOPE OF WORK

Under the overall supervision of the ADG/SHS and the Head of the Ethics of AI Team, and in director contact with the EAI Team, Business Council for Ethics of AI Coordinator will be responsible for the following activities:

1. Strategic planning: Design and implement the Business Council's strategy, including new membership, funding, and key activities. This includes promoting the Council's active participation in initiatives such as the AI Governance Disclosure Initiative UNESCO-Thomson Reuters.
2. Work plan: Propose and develop a work plan for the Business Council, either customized for individual members or specific subgroups. This approach will ensure concrete engagement and commitment to deliver on areas of focus while maximizing the Council's impact.
3. Collaborative support: Develop collaborative exchange and in-kind support programs, enabling company staff to work alongside UNESCO to advance the Business Council's initiatives and contribute to the implementation of the Recommendation.
4. Membership expansion: Drive the expansion of the Business Council's membership, with special relevance to companies from different sectors, both AI developers and users and innovators in the applications. A yearly goal for new members will be established in coordination with the ADG/SHS.
5. Elaboration of strategic products and documents: Preparation of knowledge and research products, as well as the elaboration of strategic documents for the work with the member companies that reflect the activities of the business council, for internal and external use of the ADG office.
6. Mission support: Support to ADG bilaterals and SHS teams with companies in official missions and UNESCO forums.

COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial)

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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Experience:
   • Minimum of 10 years of experience in the private sector, multi-agency/international bodies, or economic policy sectors.
   • Experience in issues related to data governance and emerging technologies in public policy.
   • Experience in coordinating business networks and working groups in the context of multilateral organizations.
   • Experience in the private sector, especially in areas of regulation, economic analysis, and technology.
2. Education:
   • University degree in Economics, Law, or Engineering, with a strong background in digital economy, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and social responsibility.
   • Post-graduate degree in public policy, economics, or management focused on social issues.
3. Languages:
   • Advanced proficiency in English. Knowledge of another Un language will be valued.
4. Skills:
   • Ability to work in a team and multicultural environment, with excellent communication and network management skills.

APPLICATION

 Interested candidates should click on “Apply Now”, then download and complete the Employment History form (Word file). At the end of the Word file, insert extra pages with the following required information:

A one-page statement laying out how their qualifications and experience make them suitable for the assignment, and explaining how they would approach the work;

The salary expectations for the assignment, which should be quoted in US dollars on a monthly basis for a 11- month period (full-time working).

Upon completing the Word file with all the requested information above, upload the file at the “My Employment History Form / My Documents” section of the online application form.

Only applications with the above requested information will be considered.

SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the UNESCO careers website. No modifications can be made to the application submitted.

The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. 

UNESCO uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates.

Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided.

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UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff members shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity. UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States (last update here) are particularly welcome and strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Worldwide mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts.

UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.

Please note that UNESCO is a non-smoking Organization.