UNIDO Seeks Lead Expert for Industry 4.0 Transformation and Programme Design
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has announced a new consultancy opportunity for a Lead Expert on Industry 4.0 Transformation Methodology and Programme Design. This temporary appointment offers an influential role in shaping the digital and green future of manufacturing in the Western Balkans and beyond. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
With the rapid rise of digital technologies and the growing urgency of sustainable industrial development, this consultancy offers a unique chance to contribute to UNIDO’s vision for smarter, greener, and more resilient industries.
Key Vacancy Details
- Title: Lead Expert on Industry 4.0 Transformation Methodology and Programme Design
- Requisition ID: 6796
- Grade: ISA-P4
- Category: International Consultant
- Contract Type: Non-Staff WAE
- Duration: 45 days over a defined period
- Duty Station: Home-based (with travel to Serbia for piloting activities)
- Application Deadline: 18 December 2025 (Vienna time)
- Job Posting: Open to internal and external applicants
Organizational Context
UNIDO is the UN’s specialized agency dedicated to promoting inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID). Guided by the Lima and Abu Dhabi Declarations and fully aligned with the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDG 9—UNIDO supports Member States in building resilient infrastructure, advancing sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation.
As the Organization transitions from its 2022–2025 Medium-Term Programme Framework (MTPF) to the upcoming 2026–2029 cycle, it is sharpening its focus on:
- Clean and renewable energy
- Climate action and green transition
- Digital transformation and artificial intelligence
- Sustainable value chains
- Local value addition and innovation
- Private sector investment and development finance
This position falls within the Division of Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence (TCS/DAI), which supports countries in adopting frontier technologies associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The division ensures that manufacturing firms—particularly SMEs—benefit from advanced digital and cyber-physical systems while safeguarding employment, sustainability, and competitiveness.
Project Context: Fostering Industry 4.0 in the Western Balkans
The consultancy is part of the project ID 230258, aimed at accelerating Industry 4.0 readiness and green transition in the Western Balkans. Building on earlier project phases, UNIDO is working to:
- Strengthen innovation ecosystems
- Support industrial modernization
- Facilitate regional integration into the wider EU technological landscape
- Expand the Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center (SMIC) in Novi Sad
This second phase will align with Slovenia’s Development Strategy 2030 and set the groundwork for a future large-scale Industry 4.0 and circular economy initiative involving the European Union.
Functional Responsibilities
Under the supervision of UNIDO’s Project Manager and working closely with international and national experts, the Lead Expert will be responsible for three major workstreams.
1. Develop the “Factory of the Future” Transformation Methodology (10 days)
- Design the overarching framework for the SMIC Transformation Toolkit.
- Define SME progression pathways for digital and green maturity.
- Describe advisor roles, governance mechanisms, and component interlinkages.
- Cover all seven transformation areas, including advanced manufacturing and smart, eco-friendly factory systems.
2. Create the “Factory of the Future” Transformation Toolkit (30 days)
Deliver four interconnected tools:
- Advanced Manufacturing Maturity Scan: Assessment indicators, scoring, and benchmarking logic.
- Transformation Plan Template: A structured planning tool integrating sustainability and innovation.
- Implementation Journey Guide: Milestones, objective setting, and progress monitoring guidance.
- Training & Certification Framework: Modules, delivery methods, assessment, and quality assurance for SME advisors.
3. Pilot the Toolkit and Accelerator Programme (4 days in Serbia)
- Conduct a three-day Train-the-Trainers workshop for at least 10 experts.
- Facilitate feedback collection and refinement of tools.
- Support piloting with 10 manufacturing SMEs and prepare a lessons-learned report.
4. Ad Hoc Tasks and Final Report (1 day)
- Carry out additional tasks as needed.
- Submit a comprehensive final report with recommendations.
Minimum Requirements
Education
- Advanced degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Innovation Management, or related fields.
Technical Experience
- Minimum 7 years in smart manufacturing, Industry 4.0 strategy, digital factory tools, or innovation ecosystems.
- Proven experience developing transformation methodologies or maturity models.
- Strong analytical and technical writing capabilities.
- Experience with sustainability in manufacturing or SME advisory work is an advantage.
Languages
- Fluency in English required; knowledge of another UN language is desirable.
Core Values and Competencies
UNIDO expects all personnel to embody its values:
- Integrity
- Professionalism
- Respect for Diversity
And demonstrate key competencies such as:
- People-centered collaboration
- Results-oriented delivery
- Clear and trustworthy communication
- Innovation and creative problem-solving
Application Information
Applications must be submitted through UNIDO’s online recruitment system. UNIDO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
Candidates are encouraged to apply early ahead of the 18 December 2025 deadline.
