Senior Specialist: Regional Information Services (RIS Lead)

Position Overview

Regional Information Services (RIS) is housed in ICIMOD’s broader work on Regional Action and Global Advocacy. The overall objective of the RIS is to harness the power of data and rapidly evolving digital tools and technologies to improve decision-making in ways that sustain and protect lives and livelihoods across the rapidly changing Hindu Kush Himalaya region.

RIS enhances access to data, information, and insights on climate and environmental trends and events – and how these may impact people and investments. It focuses on developing high-priority regional datasets, advanced information systems, applications and tools, and innovative digital platforms and communication systems that support research, policymaking, planning, and investment decisions.

RIS will build upon existing data, geographic information system (GIS), and remote sensing tools and technologies while integrating cutting-edge digital innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and cloud computing. It will adopt a hub-and-spokes, networked approach to deliver rapid, high-quality information services to users both within and beyond ICIMOD.

The Senior Specialist acts as a thought leader in digital information services and technologies, contributing to the team and collaborating closely across ICIMOD and with its partners. This position supervises and manages the RIS team, ensuring successful delivery aligned with organisational standards, and coordinates with other teams across the organisation. The Senior Specialist is accountable for the overall quality and timely execution of RIS, ensuring that all components are well-integrated, aligned, and mutually reinforcing. The role also includes risk management, clear communication, and coordination across ICIMOD to ensure all personnel involved understand their roles and contribute effectively as a team.

Requirements

Person specification/competencies

[Experience, Knowledge, and Skills]

Qualifications

· PhD in Digital Information Services, Data Science, Earth Observation, Geographic Information Systems, or a closely related field, with at least 10 years of relevant professional experience; or a master's degree in a relevant discipline with 12 years of progressively responsible professional experience.

Experience

· At least five years of leadership or people management experience, including leading multidisciplinary and multicultural teams.

· Proven experience leading large, complex programmes or institutional initiatives, including strategic planning, budgeting, resource management, monitoring, and delivery.

· Demonstrated experience in digital information systems, data management, knowledge services, Earth observation, geospatial technologies, or related fields.

· Strong understanding of the theory and practice of data and information systems, operational services, and the communication of scientific knowledge for decision-making.

· Demonstrated experience working effectively with governments, development partners, research institutions, and other regional and international stakeholders, including on politically sensitive issues.

· Experience developing innovative digital solutions using emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, big data, or related technologies.

· Experience developing and managing regional datasets, digital platforms, and user-oriented information services.

· Strong strategic leadership, organisational, and programme management skills, with the ability to prioritise, delegate, and deliver results.

· Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify user needs, translate them into practical solutions, and adapt approaches in a changing environment.

· Strong networking, partnership-building, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills, supported by an established regional and/or international professional network.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, including the ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences.

Preferred

Experience integrating GESI and interdisciplinary or transdisciplinary approaches into programmes and institutional initiatives.

Benefits

Remuneration

This is an international position at ICIMOD. This position's starting annual gross salary is USD 80,787/- (negotiable based on experience and qualifications). Gross salary comprises basic salary, provident fund, and family/post adjustment allowance. Salaries and benefits at ICIMOD are competitive compared with other international organisations. We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes child/dependency allowances, insurances (medical, life, and accidental), children’s education grant for a maximum of two (2) children below 18 years of age, severance pay, paid leave (30 holidays and 10 public holidays per year), and day care facility.

For expatriates, there is a tax exemption in Nepal; they are responsible for paying their home country’s taxes. Expatriate staff are entitled to housing allowance, annual home leave ticket, shipment of personal effects, and an installation and repatriation allowance.

Method of application

Applicants are requested to apply online before October 04, 2026 (11:59 pm Nepal Standard Time, UTC+05:45) through the ICIMOD Vacancy Application Portal.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Detailed TOR Link - ToR senior specialist RIS_SEP2026.pdf