Ieva Žilionienė, Digital Transformation Advisor for Governments & GovTech Policy Expert, Lithuania

1. How do you use technology/policy to improve citizens’ lives? Tell us about your role or organisation. 

For many years, I've worked in Lithuania's government institutions, contributing to our nation's digital transformation by developing strategies, coordinating EU structural funds, and supporting significant public sector digitalization reforms. It seems we did quite a good job – Lithuania is now one of the leading countries worldwide in digital government achievements! 

Currently, I'm channeling my experience into leading the consulting branch of NRD Companies, a global IT and consulting group supporting governments around the world with digital development reforms. Together with my team, I help public institutions develop digitalization policies and strategies, re-engineer and digitalize public services, draft necessary legislation, build digital capacities within institutions, and manage the required changes. 

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2. What was the most impactful project you worked on this year? 

This year, we completed the project supporting the Government of Trinidad and Tobago in launching their GovTech innovation initiative, D’Hub. This platform incentivizes developers to build digital solutions for the government. In May 2024, the D’Hub project was honored as a global champion in the Enabling Environment category at ITU’s World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) – a prestigious award that highlights the initiative’s significant impact and success. 

3. What was one unexpected learning from 2024? 

It’s not so much unexpected as it is a reaffirmation: no matter where you are – Europe, Africa, or the Caribbean – the public sector faces similar challenges. Resources are always scarce, existing structures seem immovable, and the desire for change is limited. Yet, meaningful and coordinated digital transformation is possible - countries that embarked on this journey earlier have shown that. While you can't simply "copy-paste" one country's success to another, you can certainly learn from their successes and mistakes, adapting them to fit your own context and needs. 

4. What’s a tool or technique you’re excited to explore in 2025? 

In 2025, I'm excited to explore even more AI-based tools. These tools are already proving to helpful in everyday work when used smartly and responsibly, and while the hype around AI can sometimes be overwhelming, there's no denying the opportunities they offer for increased efficiency and productivity. 

5. Everybody’s talking about AI today – give us your hot take on AI and what it means for the public sector. 

AI is the buzzword of today, and for the public sector, it means a few key things: the need to train people, and the need to be more open to experimentation. 

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6. What are your priorities for 2025? 

My motto is: the more you know, the more you realize you don't know! It's impossible to know everything, which is why my priorities, drawn from many years of practical experience in digital transformation across various countries and contexts, are these: be open, be ready to learn, be flexible, move fast, and stay positive. 

7. What advice do you have for public sector innovators? 

In digital transformation, the hard part isn't the "digital" aspect. The real challenge lies in the "soft" enablers – policy, regulations, institutional setup, and readiness for innovation. These are often more important and challenging than the digital solution building part.  

To succeed, first, you need clear leadership to own the reform, with a clear mandate and efficient tools, avoiding grey zones and competition that waste energy. Second, a solid plan to use limited resources effectively is essential, with a clear roadmap and specific actions that are practical, not just filled with buzzwords. And third, openness to change is crucial. The world is constantly evolving, and fostering a culture that encourages trying new things is both a challenge and an opportunity. 

8. What inspires you today? 

Knowing that the work we do is meaningful and has the real potential to change lives for the better. 

In addition to her role as GovTech Policy Expert at Lithuania’s DigiTech Association, Infobalt, Ieva Žilionienė is also Consulting Business Lead at NRD Companies, and Lithuania‘s National Expert for World Summit Awards.