- Develop and implement SmartStarts long-term IT and digital strategy aligned with organizational goals.
- Collaborate with the executive team to ensure that technology solutions are scalable and future-ready.
- Identify opportunities for digital innovation across the value chain and propose transformative solutions.
- Lead the development of a SmartStart technology roadmap, including digital platforms for program delivery, data systems, and operational tools.
- Advise leadership on emerging technology trends and how they can be leveraged for strategic advantage.
- Oversee the end-to-end digital transformation of SmartStarts operations, including the integration of program management, operations, and learning design systems.
- Manage the development, rollout, and adoption of critical digital tools (e.g., SmartLink, Funda App, CRM platforms).
- Ensure seamless integration of digital platforms with business operations for optimal program delivery.
- Lead change management efforts to drive digital adoption across the network and internal teams.
- Oversee SmartStarts IT infrastructure, ensuring secure, efficient, and reliable systems.
- Lead the management of cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, data governance, and disaster recovery planning.
- Implement robust IT governance frameworks to ensure compliance with industry standards and data privacy laws (e.g., POPIA).
- Manage business-as-usual (BAU) IT services, including user support and hardware/software maintenance.
- Identify and implement digital solutions to enhance user experience, program reach, and internal efficiency.
- Explore and deploy innovative technologies (AI, automation, data analytics) to support program scaling.
- Establish partnerships with tech innovators to co-create scalable and cost-effective solutions.
- Lead, mentor, and grow the internal IT team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Manage relationships with outsourced IT service providers, software developers, and technology consultants.
- Ensure clear performance metrics (KPIs) for internal teams and external vendors to deliver strategic goals.
- Develop and manage the IT departments budget, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation.
- Identify funding opportunities for technology investments and manage grant-funded digital projects.
- Provide regular financial reporting on IT spending and cost-saving initiatives.
- Lead the development and enforcement of data governance policies, ensuring data integrity and security.
- Oversee the protection of sensitive data, cybersecurity protocols, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Work closely with the Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) team to ensure data systems support evidence-based decision-making.
- Work cross-functionally with Programme Management, Operations, and Learning Design teams to ensure technology supports and enhances program outcomes.
- Engage franchisors and partners to co-design and implement tech solutions that address network-wide needs.
- Represent SmartStart in external technology forums, partnerships, and stakeholder engagements
- A scalable and integrated technology platform supporting program delivery and network operations.
- Fully operational and secure IT infrastructure aligned with SmartStarts growth targets.
- Increased digital adoption among internal teams, franchisors, and practitioners.
- Strengthened data security and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Cost-effective and impactful IT investments delivering measurable outcomes.
Key Person Specifications
Qualifications And Experience
- Minimum Qualification: Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (Masters degree preferred).
- Experience:
- At least 10 years of IT leadership experience in scaling technology solutions within NGOs or social enterprises.
- Proven success in leading digital transformation and large-scale technology integration.
- Strong background in software development, IT operations, and infrastructure management.
- Experience managing cloud platforms, cybersecurity, and data governance.
- Demonstrated capability in managing external tech vendors and large cross-functional teams.
- Strategic Leadership: Ability to develop and execute technology strategies that drive organizational growth.
- Technical Expertise: In-depth knowledge of software development, cloud infrastructure, and IT security.
- Innovation and Problem-Solving: Creative thinker with a focus on scalable, impactful solutions.
- Change Management: Proven ability to lead digital transformation initiatives.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Financial Acumen: Budget management and resource optimization.
- Team Leadership: Experience in building high-performing, collaborative IT teams.
The Technology Head will work closely with the following teams:
- Programme Value Chain: Ensure digital tools support a scalable platform through an end-to-end value chain integration
- Programme Operations: Streamline operational processes through technology.
- Early Learning & Learning Design: Support the creation and delivery of digital learning resources.
- MERL, Advocacy & Communications: Strengthen data systems for evidence-based decision-making.
- Reports directly to the Chief Programme and Platform Officer (CPO).
- Member of the Executive Committee (ExCo).
- Key liaison with external technology partners, franchisors, and SmartStart network stakeholders.
