Head of IT (Financial Services)New!

• Develop and implement the group's IT and digital strategy in line with business objectives and growth plans.
• Advise executive leadership on technology investments, architecture, digital innovation and build-versus-buy decisions.
• Oversee performance, integration and development of core banking, lending and loan management systems.
• Drive digital products, mobile platforms, agent networks and payment integrations.
• Lead major systems migrations, platform upgrades and digital transformation projects.
• Manage technology vendors, strategic partnerships and third-party service providers.
• Ensure availability, reliability and scalability of infrastructure, networks, cloud and data centre environments.
• Establish business continuity, disaster recovery, incident and change management frameworks.
• Develop information security policies, cybersecurity controls and fraud prevention measures.
• Build and lead the technology team, manage the IT budget and report on audit findings.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems, Engineering or a related field.
• A postgraduate qualification in technology or business administration is an added advantage.
• At least 10 years of progressive IT experience, including five years in senior technology leadership within financial services.
• Demonstrated experience implementing or transforming core banking, lending or other mission-critical financial services platforms.
• Experience building or scaling technology functions and delivering major transformation initiatives.
• A recognised certification such as CISA, CISM, CISSP, ITIL, TOGAF, COBIT or PMP.
• Active membership of a relevant professional body such as ISACA or the Computer Society of Kenya.

Skills & Competencies:

• Cybersecurity, IT governance and technology risk management.
• Regulatory compliance and data protection knowledge.
• Technology budgeting and vendor contract management.
• Strategic thinking and executive communication.
• Cross-functional team leadership and change management.