The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is seeking a highly qualified Lead Expert on Industry 4.0 Transformation Methodology and Programme Design to support the development of cutting-edge tools and strategies that will accelerate smart, sustainable, and digitally driven industrial transformation across the Western Balkans. This exciting consultancy presents a unique opportunity for an experienced Industry 4.0 specialist to contribute to global innovation, digitalization, and inclusive industrial development.
About UNIDO
UNIDO is the UN agency mandated to promote inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID). Its mission is grounded in the Lima Declaration and Abu Dhabi Declaration, and aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.
UNIDO supports Member States in:
- Digital transformation and AI adoption
- Sustainable energy and climate action
- Circular economy and green industrialization
- Industrial policy and capacity building
- Strengthening MSMEs and innovation ecosystems
The selected expert will operate within the Division of Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence (TCS/DAI), which assists countries in leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies to boost competitiveness, foster innovation, and build smart manufacturing systems.
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Project Context
This consultancy supports the initiative “Fostering Industry 4.0 for Green Transition and Circular Economy in the Western Balkans” (ID230258). The project builds on the establishment of the Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center (SMIC) in Novi Sad and aims to expand digital transformation support across Serbia and its neighboring economies.
Phase II focuses on:
- Strengthening SME readiness for Industry 4.0
- Embedding green and circular economy strategies
- Developing a scalable transformation methodology and toolkit
- Piloting an accelerator programme for manufacturing SMEs
The work will contribute directly to a larger future initiative in partnership with Slovenia and the European Union.
Key Responsibilities
1. Develop the “Factory of the Future” Methodology (10 Days)
The expert will design a comprehensive strategic framework outlining the conceptual structure, logic, and transformation steps for SMEs transitioning toward digital, smart, and sustainable operations.
2. Build the Transformation Toolkit (30 Days)
Deliverables include:
- Advanced Manufacturing Maturity Scan
- Transformation Plan methodology and template
- Implementation Journey Guide
- Training & Certification Programme for SME advisors
Each tool will support SMEs in diagnosing their maturity, planning priorities, and implementing Industry 4.0 upgrades.
3. Pilot the Programme in Serbia (4 Days)
The consultant will conduct a three-day train-the-trainers workshop for at least 10 SME advisors and support a pilot involving 10 manufacturing SMEs.
4. Final Reporting (1 Day)
A comprehensive final report with recommendations and lessons learned.
Estimated Monthly Salary (Approx.)
Based on typical UNIDO consultant fee bands and market benchmarks for ISA-P4-level international experts, the estimated monthly salary ranges between:
➡️ USD 8,000 – USD 11,000 per month (approx.)
Actual remuneration will depend on daily rate negotiations, experience, and project budget.
Qualifications
- Advanced degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Systems, Innovation/Technology Management, Economics, or related fields
- Minimum 7 years of experience in smart manufacturing, Industry 4.0 tools, digital transformation strategy, or innovation ecosystems
- Proven experience developing SME transformation methodologies
- Strong analytical and technical writing abilities
- Experience with sustainability and green manufacturing is an advantage
- Fluency in English required
Core Values and Competencies
UNIDO requires adherence to the values of Integrity, Professionalism, and Respect for Diversity, with competencies in people-centred teamwork, accountability, effective communication, innovation, and results-oriented planning.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online by 18 December 2025, 11:59 PM (Vienna time).
This consultancy is project-specific and does not carry an expectation of renewal. UNIDO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
