Job Advertisement: Special Adviser – Digital Development & Partnerships
The Embassy of Finland in Addis Ababa is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Special Adviser to support the Embassy’s development cooperation, EU-funded programmes, and business partnerships in Ethiopia. The position has a strong focus on digital transformation, including digital education, digital public services, and digital public infrastructure (DPI).
This is a locally hired staff position, and the employment relationship is governed by Ethiopian labour legislation and the terms and conditions applied to local employees of the Embassy of Finland.
Key Responsibilities
1. Programme Management (EU & Bilateral Projects)
- Coordinate and monitor the implementation of EU-funded Team Europe and Finland-supported projects.
- Support project planning, design, proposal development, reporting, and compliance with EU and Finnish requirements.
- Track project progress, results, risks, and finances.
- Liaise with implementing partners, government entities, and donors.
2. Digital Transformation & Sector Engagement
- Support Embassy engagement in:
- Digital education and skills
- Digital public services (e-government)
- Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) (e.g., digital ID, interoperability, data governance)
- Monitor policy developments in Ethiopia’s digital landscape.
- Contribute to policy dialogue with government, EU Delegation, and development partners.
3. Private Sector & Partnership Facilitation
- Strengthen partnerships between Finnish and Ethiopian companies, innovation ecosystems, and startups.
- Support public–private partnership (PPP) initiatives in digital sectors.
- Identify opportunities for business collaboration, investment, and market entry.
4. Business & Investment Promotion
- Support efforts to promote Finnish business interests in Ethiopia.
- Assist in preparing and implementing trade missions, business delegations, and investment events.
- Provide sector analyses and market insights for Finnish stakeholders.
5. Stakeholder Coordination & Representation
- Maintain strong relations with:
- Ethiopian ministries and public agencies
- EU Delegation and Team Europe partners
- Development organizations and financial institutions
- Private sector actors and innovation hubs
- Represent the Embassy in meetings, workshops, and events.
6. Reporting & Communication
- Prepare reports, briefings, and background materials.
- Contribute to Embassy communication and visibility efforts, including social media.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education
Master’s degree (or equivalent or BA degree with at least 5 years of highly relevant work experience) in:
- Economics
- Political Science
- Information Technology / Digital Policy
- Business Administration
- Or another relevant field
Professional Experience
Minimum 3 years of relevant professional experience, preferably in:
- Development cooperation or donor-funded projects
- Digital development, ICT policy, or innovation ecosystems
- Private sector engagement or business development
Skills & Competencies
- Understanding of digital transformation and digital public infrastructure
- Knowledge of EU development frameworks and financing tools is an advantage
- Proven project management skills
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and networking skills
- Strong analytical, writing, and reporting abilities
- Ability to work independently and in multicultural environments
Languages
- Fluent English and Amharic (required)
- Finnish or other EU languages are an asset
Personal Attributes
- Proactive, solution-oriented, and well organized
- High level of integrity and professionalism
- Interest in digitalization, innovation, and sustainable development
Employment Conditions
- This is a full-time, locally hired position under Ethiopian labour law.
- The position is fixed term for 2 years (project-based)
- A probationary period will apply according to local legislation.
- Salary is based on the Embassy’s local salary framework and depends on the candidate’s competencies, experience, and the role’s requirements.
- Start date will be agreed with the selected candidate and should allow time for onboarding and possible security processes.
Security Clearance
A personnel security clearance may be obtained for the applicant with his or her consent (Finnish Security Clearance Act 726/2014). The applicant may also be subject to a personal security clearance in the country of employment, for which the Embassy will provide additional information.
Data Protection
In the Foreign Service of Finland, we process your personal data with due diligence and in accordance with EU data protection legislation. We do not disclose personal data to third parties without a lawful reason. By applying for this position, you accept the data protection terms and consent to the processing of your personal data.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit the following in English:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter describing your relevant experience, motivation, and salary expectation
- Contact details of three references
Please send your application by May 8th, 2026 to:
[email protected]
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Applicants will be informed about the selection timetable and process.