Chief Technology and Information Officer

careersinafrica; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A multinational telecommunications group in South Africa is seeking a Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) to define and execute a comprehensive technology strategy that supports business growth. The role involves leading the technology team, managing telecom networks, and driving innovation. Ideal candidates should have over 8 years of experience in IT operations and proven leadership in the telecommunications industry.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years in IT and GSM operations, with at least 5 in senior technology leadership roles.
• Proven managerial track record with at least 3 years in the telecommunications industry.
• Strong background in network architecture, IT applications, mobile technologies, and VAS platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term technology strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Lead and coach a high-performing technology team.
• Oversee telecom networks and ensure network performance and innovation.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Business acumen

Analytical skills

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Information Technology

Tools

AWS

SQL

Java

Cisco

Job description

Chief Technology and Information Officer

Job Description

Company Overview

Established in South Africa in 1994, this multinational telecommunications group has experienced substantial growth by investing in cutting-edge communications infrastructure, pioneering innovative technologies, and leveraging a diverse workforce to deliver services across communities in Africa and the Middle East. Today, the organisation is among the largest network operators globally and holds a leading position within the African market. It provides voice, data, fintech, digital, enterprise, wholesale, and API services to over 290 million customers across 16 markets.

Its Ivorian subsidiary, formed in 2005 following the acquisition of a local operator, has since become a major player in the country’s telecommunications industry. Competing with other established providers, it currently ranks as the second-largest operator in the national market.

The Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) is responsible for defining and delivering a comprehensive technology strategy to support business growth, operational efficiency, and innovation. The role ensures technology platforms align with commercial goals and oversees the performance, deployment, and maintenance of all network and IT infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & Planning: Develop and implement long-term technology strategy aligned with business objectives. Translate strategic goals into operational plans and lead execution.
• Leadership & People Development: Lead, coach, and build a high-performing technology team. Drive motivation, skill development, succession planning, and performance management.
• Technology Operations: Oversee telecom networks (radio, switching, transmission, fibre), IT systems, VAS platforms, and service delivery. Ensure network performance, optimisation, and innovation.
• Governance & Risk: Ensure compliance with regulatory and security standards. Lead cybersecurity strategy, risk mitigation, and best practice governance.
• Financial & Vendor Management: Manage Capex/Opex budgets, oversee tenders and supplier contracts, and drive cost efficiency and ROI through procurement and outsourcing strategies.
• Collaboration & Reporting: Align with internal departments and group-level technology teams. Report regularly on performance, projects, and budget compliance. Lead continuous improvement and transformation initiatives.
• Stakeholder Management: Act as a technology advisor to the executive team and represent the technology function internally and externally as a brand ambassador.

Personal Specification

Experience:

• Minimum 8 years in IT and GSM operations, with at least 5 years in senior technology leadership roles.
• Proven managerial track record (minimum 5 years), including at least 3 in the relevant industry.
• Experience in multinational environments; exposure to emerging markets and multicultural settings preferred.
• Strong background in network architecture, IT applications, mobile technologies, and VAS platforms.
• Solid knowledge of OSS/BSS systems, with experience across sectors such as telecommunications, FMCG, retail banking, or services.
• Demonstrated innovation, strategic thinking, and the ability to lead fast-paced, cross-cultural teams.
• Bilingual in French and English is highly advantageous.

Technical Expertise:

• Advanced knowledge in:
  • Network architecture & operations (5G, IoT, SDN, NFV)
• • Cloud technologies (AWS, edge computing, cloud engineering & security)
• • Data (architecture, engineering, science, AI/ML, big data)
• • Cybersecurity, DevOps/ML Ops, Agile & SCRUM methodologies
• • Systems integration, microservices, automation (RPA), and UX/UI design
• • Programming and infrastructure: SQL, Java, Cisco, VoIP, Open RAN

Core Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and digital mind-set
• Business acumen and financial literacy
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills
• Change leadership and organisational agility
• Project and people management
• Negotiation, conflict management, and emotional maturity
• High adaptability, cultural awareness, and integrity

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field required.