International consultant on Digital Transformation, AI and Cybersecurity in Media (Roster)
Background:
The media environment in Montenegro is undergoing rapid digital transformation, bringing both new opportunities and emerging risks for journalists and news organizations. As newsrooms increasingly rely on digital tools for research, communication and content production, they also face growing exposure to cyber threats such as phishing, malware, data breaches and online harassment. Strengthening digital resilience and improving the ability of media outlets to protect sensitive information and communication channels has become an important priority for ensuring safe and independent journalism.
At the same time, the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies is significantly reshaping journalistic landscape worldwide. Many media organizations have begun integrating AI-assisted tools to support tasks such as background research, information monitoring, content summarization and editorial planning.
In Montenegro, the use of AI tools is gradually expanding within newsrooms; however, it often remains informal and limited to basic applications. Journalists still face increasing challenges in monitoring large volumes of information published daily, which creates a need for tools and skills that can help manage information flows more efficiently while maintaining strong editorial standards.
In this context, the OSCE Mission to Montenegro aims to support Montenegrin media outlets in strengthening both their digital security and their capacity to responsibly use emerging technologies in editorial work. Through expert support, safety assessments, practical training and capacity-building activities, this initiative will assist newsrooms in improving secure communication and data protection practices and adopting effective and ethical uses of AI-assisted tools. By enhancing both technological resilience and professional competencies, the project seeks to contribute to a safer, more efficient and sustainable media sector in Montenegro.
Objective of Assignment:
The overall objective of this call is to create Roster of International Consultants on Digital Transformation, AI and Cybersecurity in Media, experienced in assessing newsroom digital practices, providing technical advice, and designing and delivering capacity-building activities for media professionals. The consultants will support the development of practical tools, guidelines and training programmes strengthening safe, responsible and effective use of digital technologies, while improving digital-security practices, data protection and resilience against cyber threats.
Duration of Assignment:
Duration of any assignment will vary depending on the specific activity/ies.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
Under the overall supervision of the Media Programme Manager, the successful candidate will be tasked with one or multiple tasks from the following list:
Contributing to the development and drafting of practical tools and knowledge products (guides, protocols, checklists, factsheets or similar materials) related to the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence tools and digital-security practices in media outlets. This assignment may include the conceptualization of research, development of methodologies and tools, as well as data collection and analysis related to newsroom digital practices and technology use.
Conceptualizing, developing, delivering and evaluating face-to-face (offline) or hybrid capacity-building programmes (including trainings, workshops, coaching, mentoring, facilitation and hands-on technical assistance) targeting journalists, editors, media managers, media organizations and other relevant stakeholders.
Conducting digital-security assessments and technical reviews of newsroom digital practices, including the identification of vulnerabilities related to data protection, secure communication, digital infrastructure and cyber threats, and supporting the development of tailored safety protocols, internal guidelines and operational practices.
Providing expert support on the integration and responsible use of artificial intelligence tools in journalistic workflows, including tools supporting research, monitoring of public information sources, data analysis and summarization, while ensuring compliance with ethical standards.
Contributing expertise to broader programme activities related to digital transformation, media innovation and digital resilience, including supporting the development of recommendations, policies, internal procedures or strategic approaches that strengthen the technological capacity and security of media outlets.
Deliverables:
For more detailed information on the structure and work of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, please see: https://www.osce.org/mission-to-montenegro.
Necessary Qualifications:
University degree in journalism, media studies, information and communication technologies, computer science, social or political sciences, data science, digital communications, or another relevant field. A post-graduate degree or certification will be considered an advantage;A minimum of 4 to 6 years of relevant professional experience in areas related to digital transformation in media, artificial intelligence applications in journalism, digital security, cybersecurity, information management, data analytics, or related fields. We are looking for experts with diverse backgrounds and levels of specialization in areas such as newsroom digital innovation, responsible and ethical use of AI in journalism, monitoring and analysis of digital information sources, cybersecurity and protection of journalistic data, secure communication practices, protection against online harassment and digital threats, and strengthening digital resilience of media organizations. Experience may include research, policy development, training delivery, technical advisory services, or direct support to media outlets and journalists. Professionals with varied expertise in these areas are encouraged to apply;
Proven experience in designing and delivering capacity-building activities, such as trainings, workshops, mentoring or coaching programmes, particularly for journalists, editors, media managers or other media professionals, will be considered an advantage;
Experience in developing practice-oriented tools and knowledge products (such as guidelines, manuals, handbooks, protocols, or research reports) related to AI use, digital transformation, information management or digital security in media will be considered an asset;
Professional fluency in BCMS and English language, both oral and written;
Digital literacy and proficient use of standard digital tools, including Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint), online collaboration platforms and internet-based research tools;
Excellent organizational, analytical and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technological concepts into practical guidance for media professionals;
Ability to be flexible, work under pressure and within limited deadlines;
Demonstrated gender and diversity awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to integrate gender and diversity perspectives into all tasks and activities, including when addressing online harassment and digital safety challenges affecting journalists;
Interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work in teams and with groups composed of individuals of different cultural and professional backgrounds, while maintaining impartiality and objectivity;
Previous experience working with international or regional organizations, media development programmes, or journalist associations will be considered an asset.
Demonstrated gender awareness and sensitivity, and an ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks and activities;
Ability and willingness to work as a member of team, with people of different cultural, and religious backgrounds, different gender, and diverse political views, while maintaining impartiality and objectivity;
Remuneration Package:
Remuneration will be based on the selected consultant's/expert's qualifications, experience, the tasks and deliverables for this position and in accordance with the OSCE established rates.
If you wish to apply for this position, please use the OSCE's online application link found under https://vacancies.osce.org/.
The OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise/re-post the vacancy, to cancel the recruitment or to offer an appointment with a modified job description or for a different duration.
Only those candidates who are selected to participate in the subsequent stages of recruitment will be contacted.
The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all religious, ethnic and social backgrounds to apply to become a part of the Organization.
Candidates should be aware that OSCE officials shall conduct themselves at all times in a manner befitting the status of an international civil servant. This includes avoiding any action which may adversely reflect on the integrity, independence and impartiality of their position and function as officials of the OSCE. The OSCE is committed to applying the highest ethical standards in carrying out its mandate. For more information on the values set out in OSCE Competency Model, please see https://jobs.osce.org/resources/document/our-competency-model.
Please be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application and review process.