Manager, Nigeria Project Lead, Digital Impact Alliance

About the Digital Impact Alliance 

The Digital Impact Alliance (DIAL) works to advance a more equitable world by putting the rights and aspiration of people at the center of digital transformation. To that end, we connect people with evidence to design digital systems and tools that work for society through research, demonstrations, and policy advocacy. We collaborate with others to promote digital systems and governance approaches that maximize participation, agency, choice and trust, with a particular focus on effective data exchange systems and strong data governance.
Hosted by the United Nations Foundation, DIAL is a partnership among the world’s leading digital development champions, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, and the German Development Cooperation Agency (GIZ), among others.

Position Overview

DIAL is seeking a highly skilled and networked Project Lead to lead government relations and stakeholder coordination for our efforts in engaging with key government institutions, private sector, civil society and the public at large in Nigeria. The successful candidate will advocate for the adoption of AI and DPI, ensure safe and secure data exchange, and possess solutions architecture expertise in technology, digitalization, or AI. This role is critical for fostering strong partnerships with government entities, advocating for AI and DPI policies, and coordinating stakeholder activities to drive impactful digital transformation.  In so doing, the Project Lead is going to drive targeted and strategic advocacy on the above key subject matters and with target stakeholders groups.

This position is based in Nigeria. It is a 12-month term upon hire.

Essential Functions

Government Relations

• Establish and maintain strategic relationships with key government institutions and stakeholders.
• Advocate for the adoption of AI and DPI technologies within government entities.
• Provide policy recommendations and support to government bodies on AI and DPI initiatives.
• Represent DIAL in meetings, conferences, and public forums to promote the organization’s mission and objectives.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Coordinate and facilitate collaboration among various stakeholders, including data providers and public service providers.
• Develop and implement stakeholder engagement plans to ensure alignment and cooperation.
• Organize workshops, seminars, and training sessions to enhance stakeholder understanding and support for AI and DPI.

Solutions Architecture

• Provide technical expertise in solutions architecture related to technology, digitalization, and AI.
• Develop and recommend AI and DPI solutions that address the specific needs of government and public service providers.
• Ensure that proposed solutions are secure, scalable, and aligned with best practices in data exchange and protection.

Advocacy and Communication

• Lead DIAL’s multistakeholder advocacy efforts in ensuring safe and secure data exchange in the development of innovative AI solutions and adoption of DPI in Nigeria
• Develop and deliver advocacy materials, including policy briefs, presentations, and reports.
• Communicate the benefits and potential impacts of AI and DPI to diverse audiences.
• Engage in public consultations and gather feedback to inform project strategies and policies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Selection Criteria

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Public Policy, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in government relations, stakeholder management, or a related role.
• Proven expertise in solutions architecture, particularly in technology, digitalization, or AI.
• Strong understanding of data protection regulations and best practices for secure data exchange.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working in Nigeria or other developing countries is highly desirable.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle stress.
• Ability to meet regular attendance/tardiness policy.