Technology Head

Johannesburg, South Africa | Posted on 02 / 04 /

SmartStart is a successful national network of NGOs and partners that is realizing quality, affordable early learning for all children aged three to five.

We are achieving this by scaling a network of and building a platform for providers, achieving specific ecosystem transformations with governments and partners, and promoting early learning as a priority societal cause.

Job Description

Strategic Technology Leadership

1. Develop and implement SmartStart's long-term IT and digital strategy aligned with organizational goals.
2. Collaborate with the executive team to ensure that technology solutions are scalable and future-ready.
3. Identify opportunities for digital innovation across the value chain and propose transformative solutions.
4. Lead the development of a SmartStart technology roadmap, including digital platforms for program delivery, data systems, and operational tools.
5. Advise leadership on emerging technology trends and how they can be leveraged for strategic advantage.

Digital Transformation and Integration

1. Oversee the end-to-end digital transformation of SmartStart's operations, including the integration of program management, operations, and learning design systems.
2. Manage the development, rollout, and adoption of critical digital tools (e.g., SmartLink, Funda App, CRM platforms).
3. Ensure seamless integration of digital platforms with business operations for optimal program delivery.
4. Lead change management efforts to drive digital adoption across the network and internal teams.

IT Operations and Infrastructure Management

1. Oversee SmartStart's IT infrastructure, ensuring secure, efficient, and reliable systems.
2. Lead the management of cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, data governance, and disaster recovery planning.
3. Implement robust IT governance frameworks to ensure compliance with industry standards and data privacy laws (e.g., POPIA).
4. Manage business-as-usual (BAU) IT services, including user support and hardware/software maintenance.

Innovation and Technology Development

1. Identify and implement digital solutions to enhance user experience, program reach, and internal efficiency.
2. Explore and deploy innovative technologies (AI, automation, data analytics) to support program scaling.
3. Establish partnerships with tech innovators to co-create scalable and cost-effective solutions.

Team and Vendor Management

1. Lead, mentor, and grow the internal IT team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
2. Manage relationships with outsourced IT service providers, software developers, and technology consultants.
3. Ensure clear performance metrics (KPIs) for internal teams and external vendors to deliver strategic goals.

Financial Management and Budgeting

1. Develop and manage the IT department's budget, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation.
2. Identify funding opportunities for technology investments and manage grant-funded digital projects.
3. Provide regular financial reporting on IT spending and cost-saving initiatives.

Data Governance and Information Security

1. Lead the development and enforcement of data governance policies, ensuring data integrity and security.
2. Oversee the protection of sensitive data, cybersecurity protocols, and risk mitigation strategies.
3. Work closely with the Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) team to ensure data systems support evidence-based decision-making.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration

1. Work cross-functionally with Programme Management, Operations, and Learning Design teams to ensure technology supports and enhances program outcomes.
2. Engage franchisors and partners to co-design and implement tech solutions that address network-wide needs.
3. Represent SmartStart in external technology forums, partnerships, and stakeholder engagements.

Requirements

Key Person Specifications

Qualifications and Experience

1. Minimum Qualification: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
2. Experience: At least 10 years of IT leadership experience in scaling technology solutions within NGOs or social enterprises.
3. Proven success in leading digital transformation and large-scale technology integration.
4. Strong background in software development, IT operations, and infrastructure management.
5. Experience managing cloud platforms, cybersecurity, and data governance.
6. Demonstrated capability in managing external tech vendors and large cross-functional teams.

Key Skills and Competencies

1. Strategic Leadership: Ability to develop and execute technology strategies that drive organizational growth.
2. Technical Expertise: In-depth knowledge of software development, cloud infrastructure, and IT security.
3. Innovation and Problem-Solving: Creative thinker with a focus on scalable, impactful solutions.
4. Change Management: Proven ability to lead digital transformation initiatives.
5. Financial Acumen: Budget management and resource optimization.
6. Team Leadership: Experience in building high-performing, collaborative IT teams.

Organizational Integration

The Technology Head will work closely with the following teams:

1. Programme Value Chain: Ensure digital tools support a scalable platform through an end-to-end value chain integration.
2. Programme Operations: Streamline operational processes through technology.
3. Early Learning & Learning Design: Support the creation and delivery of digital learning resources.
4. MERL, Advocacy & Communications: Strengthen data systems for evidence-based decision-making.

Reporting and Collaboration

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.