Head of Information Technology

Terms of Reference for Head of Information Technology

Position Title: Head of Information Technology

Department: Information Technology

Position Level: Head of Department

Reports To: Managing Director

Location: Mogadishu, Somalia

Position Summary:

The Head of Information Technology will lead the Information Technology Department, overseeing all technology-related issues within the Somali Payment Switch (SPS). This role is critical in driving the technological vision, strategy, and execution of IT initiatives, ensuring alignment with the organizational goals. The individual will be responsible for leading and part-taking in software development, building integration systems and platforms, and managing IT infrastructure. The ideal candidate shall have proven track record in developing and implementing financial technology products.

Key Responsibilities:

1.  Strategic Leadership:

§   Develop and implement the IT strategy in alignment with SPS's business objectives.

§   Lead the IT department, ensuring effective management of resources and delivery of IT services.

§   Collaborate with other department heads to identify and implement technology solutions that enhance business operations.

2.  Software Development and Integration:

§   Oversee the development and maintenance of software applications, ensuring they meet business needs and are scalable.

§   Lead the design and implementation of integration systems and platforms using Java, C#, and other relevant programming languages.

§   Ensure the adoption of best practices in software development and system integration.

§   Design and implement systematic software testing and quality assurance in collaboration with the SPS software and systems vendors

3.  IT Infrastructure Management:

§   Manage the IT infrastructure, ensuring reliability, security, and scalability.

§   Oversee the Network and Infrastructure section, ensuring robust and secure IT operations.

§   Implement cybersecurity measures to protect organizational data and systems.

4.  Technical and Managerial Leadership:

§   Provide leadership and guidance to the IT team, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

§   Mentor and develop IT staff, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to meet organizational needs.

§   Contribute to the product design and development alongside the other heads of departments

§   Ensure effective maintenance of SLAs and relevant technical agreements with the participating institutions

5.  Risk and Compliance:

§   Collaborate with the Risk and Compliance department to ensure IT systems comply with regulatory requirements.

§   Implement risk management strategies to mitigate IT-related risks.

6.  Stakeholder Engagement:

§   Engage with internal and external stakeholders to understand their technology needs and deliver solutions that meet those needs.

§   Represent the IT department in meetings with the Board of Directors and other committees as required.

§   Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field.

§   Minimum 7 years of experience in a technical leadership role with an emphasis on software development

§   Proven technical and managerial leadership experience in an IT role, preferably within the financial technology sector.

§   Proficiency in software development and integration using Java, C#, and other programming languages and demonstrated expertise in full-stack development, covering frontend (web, mobile, desktop), backend, and middleware technologies.

Extensive hands-on experience in integrating with global payment networks and RTGS systems, mobile money solutions is required.

§   Experience designing and implementing PKI and developing guidelines and algorithms for certificate signing and validation.

§   Experience with financial messaging standards, especially ISO 20022 and practical experience in XML-based messaging protocols, XML signatures and CA integration.

§   Well-rounded knowledge in the areas of information security, network and cloud infrastructure and software development and lifecycle management.

§   Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

§    Certifications in the core IT domains relevant to this role is preferred

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their experience and qualifications relevant to this role to [email protected] not later than 20th September 2024. The candidate will go through an interview process that includes a competency assessment and background