Data Science Expert

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the world’s largest humanitarian organization and a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate , is currently accepting applications for the position of Supply Chain Data Scientist . This role presents a unique opportunity for data professionals who want to apply advanced analytics, optimization techniques, and machine learning to real-world humanitarian challenges. Based primarily in Rome, Italy , with potential placement across WFP’s global offices, the position allows successful candidates to directly contribute to WFP’s mission of achieving Zero Hunger worldwide.

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About the World Food Programme (WFP)

The World Food Programme is at the forefront of global efforts to combat hunger, save lives in emergencies, and build resilience for communities affected by conflict, disasters, and climate change. Every day, WFP works across some of the most challenging environments in the world, ensuring that millions of vulnerable people—especially women and children—have access to nutritious food.

WFP’s workforce is built on the values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion . The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and strongly encourages applications from women and qualified candidates from developing countries. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just principles at WFP—they are core operational strengths.

Why Join WFP as a Supply Chain Data Scientist?

Joining WFP means more than just having a job; it means becoming part of a global movement that saves and changes lives. WFP offers a highly inclusive, multicultural working environment and invests heavily in the professional development of its staff. Employees benefit from training, coaching, mentorship, accreditation programs, and internal mobility opportunities across country, regional, and global offices.

For data scientists, WFP provides an exceptional platform to work on large-scale, high-impact problems where analytical insights directly influence humanitarian outcomes. The organization also offers a competitive compensation package in line with UN consultancy standards.

The Role: Supply Chain Data Scientist

With humanitarian needs growing faster than available funding, WFP recognizes the urgent need for better planning, efficiency, and operational foresight. To address this, WFP has established a specialized function known as Supply Chain Planning & Optimization (SPO) .

The Supply Chain Data Scientist plays a critical role within this function. Embedded in WFP headquarters, regional bureaus, or country offices, the data scientist supports global, regional, and national supply chain operations by developing data-driven solutions that enhance planning, forecasting, optimization, and decision-making.

These professionals are part of a global planning network , equipped with advanced analytical tools and standardized processes that improve supply chain performance not only for WFP but also for partner governments and humanitarian agencies.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

The Supply Chain Data Scientist role revolves around applying advanced analytics and data science techniques to humanitarian supply chain challenges. Core responsibilities include:

Supporting the maintenance and enhancement of key supply chain tools such as Optimus, Prisma, Scout, and Route The Meals

Rolling out and configuring analytical solutions for new WFP operations and partner organizations

Designing and maintaining dashboards, forecasting tools, optimization models, and data pipelines

Applying techniques such as data transformation, visualization, statistics, machine learning, and optimization algorithms

Collaborating closely with field users, data owners, and stakeholders to understand operational needs and key performance indicators

Producing in-depth quantitative analyses to support strategic and operational decision-making

Coordinating with WFP’s Technology Division to ensure compliance with corporate systems, standards, and best practices

Strengthening the analytical capacity of WFP and partner staff through knowledge sharing and best-practice adoption

As WFP increasingly adopts machine learning for demand forecasting , this role is evolving to include predictive analytics alongside traditional optimization and planning approaches, making it ideal for data scientists with both analytical depth and practical problem-solving skills.

Contract Level and Experience Requirements

The position is typically offered as a Level I Consultancy , with the possibility of Level II for candidates taking on higher responsibilities, such as managing complex projects or supervising staff.

Minimum Qualifications Include:

An advanced university degree in Data Science, Operations Research, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Management, or a related field

At least three years of relevant experience for Level I consultancy

At least five years of relevant experience for Level II consultancy

Desired Skills and Technical Expertise

WFP seeks candidates with a strong analytical background and hands-on experience in developing data-driven solutions. Required and desired skills include:

Experience using analytics to support operations management and supply chain planning

Proficiency in developing dashboards, optimization models, data pipelines, and machine learning solutions

Software development experience, including programming, testing, and deployment

Familiarity with tools and technologies such as Python, Pandas, Spark, SQL, Palantir Foundry, PuLP, PyTorch, XGBoost, and DARTS

Knowledge of optimization techniques like linear programming, heuristics, and graph algorithms

Experience with forecasting and statistical models, including regression, clustering, and random forests

Strong problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills

Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory. Knowledge of another UN language—such as French, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, or Portuguese—is an advantage and may be required for certain duty stations.

Application Process and Deadline

The application process is fully online and competitive. After submission, applications are reviewed against the required qualifications and experience. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for further assessments or interviews and, if successful, placed on a consultancy roster for up to 24 months .

Application Deadline: 30 January 2026 (23:59 CET, Rome time)

Applicants are advised to ensure their profiles are complete and accurate, including CV and cover letter. WFP does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and strongly warns candidates against fraudulent job offers.

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