Head - Information Technology

About us: ASA Microfinance Zambia Limited is a subsidiary of ASA International. ASA International is one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing international microfinance institutions offering socially responsible loans to unbanked, low-income female micro-entrepreneurs in Asia and Africa (“ASA International”). ASA International promotes financial inclusion and has successfully shown that access to financial services helps to reduce poverty and promotes social-economic progress for its predominantly female client base. ASA International is listed on the London stock exchange as a premium listed company. Main Purpose of the Job The main purpose of the job is to oversee all aspects of the company’s information technology and digital services and processes, and developing the information technology strategy and its implementation, and ensuring effective risk management, and reliable, responsive and secure ICT infrastructure and services across all operations of the company. Key Roles and Responsibilities • Develop and implement information technology policies, procedures and guidelines in compliance with relevant approved ISO standards and Group IT framework. • Develop information technology strategies which are aligned to the overall objectives of the company and breaking down the strategies into actionable work plans. • Overseeing the implementation of complex information technology system projects and initiatives and ensuring planned value and benefits are delivered and achieved. • Coordinate the effective implementation and management of a robust information technology performance management and reporting framework to track the department’s service and support delivery. • Develop and implement company-wide information technology back-up systems and business continuity plan, and facilitating regular reviews of back-ups and performing disaster recovery and testing. • Develop digital transformation initiatives to streamline and improve processes and service delivery. • Proactively identifying specific procurement requirements for information technology systems and infrastructure. • Identify information technology risks and implement risk mitigation strategies and action plans. • Develop service level agreements in liaison with Legal Department to ensure that third party suppliers of information technology and digital services and solutions deliver their services effectively and efficiently. • Effective oversight to ensure that information technology service delivery across all operations is efficient and reliable. • Ensure that the company integrates robust cyber security systems and infrastructure to effectively manage cyber security risks. • Monitoring of backup and restoration procedures and ensuring that backups are effective both on the local server and external backup servers. • Ensure that the company develops and implements adequate information security measures in line with regulatory requirements and in liaison with the Data Protection Officer. • Provide visionary and strategic leadership and develop a high-performing information technology team. • Supporting the Chief Executive Officer to achieve continuous business transformation and improvement. • Develop the annual budget of the Information Technology Department. Key Performance Measures Financials: • Departmental costs managed and maintained within approved budget. Stakeholders: • Engagements with internal business functions and external ICT service providers and partners. • Engagements with regulatory stakeholders. Employees: • Effective leadership and driving an inclusive work culture and environment. • Effective implementation of the performance management system across the Information Technology function. Reporting: • Well-prepared Information Technology reports for senior management and the Board of Directors. Governance and Strategy: • Development and implementation of Information Technology policies and standard operating procedures. • Development and oversight of the Information Technology strategy and effective implementation of the department’s annual work plan. Key Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Core Competencies Skills: • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. • Skills in Project Management. • Proficient in the use of all Microsoft software. • Effective time management skills. Knowledge: • Strong knowledge and understanding of emerging technologies. • Knowledge of LAN systems and intranet infrastructure. • Understanding of ISO/IEC information technology standards. Experience and Qualifications: • A bachelor’s degree in computer science or an ICT related field. • An MBA or a postgraduate qualification is an added advantage. • Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in an ICT role at management level. • Proven experience managing ICT infrastructure, implementing complex ICT systems and projects, and driving digital change. • Certification in programmes such as Cisco, Information and Cyber Security, and Cloud Computing is desirable and an added advantage. Core Competencies: • Leading and developing teams. • Delivering Key Performance Indicators. Important Relationships • Foster strong relationships with regulators and third-party ICT service providers. • Build good working relationships with all Departmental Heads and functional units. Problem Solving, Planning and Decision Making Problem Solving: • Ability to overcome challenges presented by digital transformation and technological advancements. • Ability to identify ICT risks and implement proactive measures to mitigate the risks. Planning: • Ability to develop work plans and prioritize execution. • Ability to develop budgets and manage resources. • Ability to think innovatively. Decision Making: • Ability to use data and analytics to make informed decisions. • Critically analyze information technology insights, trends and developments to make well-informed decisions. • Hold self and team members accountable for results and decision