Head of ICT

Job Title: Head of ICT

Location: Nairobi Kenya

Industry: Financial Services / Credit / Microfinance

Job Summary

The Head of ICT will lead the organizations Information & Communication Technology function ensuring secure reliable and efficient IT systems that support business operations and strategic growth. The role oversees ICT infrastructure information security digital transformation initiatives systems support and the development of technology solutions that enhance service delivery.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned ICT leader with strong experience in financial systems IT governance cybersecurity and digital innovation.

Key Responsibilities

1. ICT Strategy & Leadership

• Develop implement and manage ICT strategies aligned with the organizations business goals.
  
• Provide leadership and direction to the ICT team ensuring high performance and continuous improvement.
  
• Drive digital transformation initiatives to enhance efficiency customer experience and automation.
  

2. ICT Infrastructure & Systems Management

• Oversee installation configuration and maintenance of all IT hardware software networks and communication systems.
  
• Ensure optimal performance scalability and security of core systems including credit management systems databases and digital platforms.
  
• Manage system upgrades vendor relationships and IT procurement in line with set budgets.
  

3. Cybersecurity & Risk Management

• Implement and monitor robust information security measures to protect data systems and networks.
  
• Lead cybersecurity initiatives including threat monitoring incident response penetration testing and disaster recovery planning.
  
• Ensure compliance with relevant ICT policies laws and regulatory requirements such as Data Protection guidelines.
  

4. Systems Support & User Training

• Provide oversight for helpdesk operations and timely resolution of IT issues.
  
• Ensure proper documentation of systems processes and disaster recovery protocols.
  
• Coordinate user training programs to enhance system utilization and digital literacy.
  
  

5. ICT Governance & Compliance

• Develop and enforce ICT policies standards and procedures.
  
• Ensure data integrity backup and business continuity plans are maintained and tested regularly.
  
• Conduct regular IT audits to assess system effectiveness and identify improvement areas.
  
  

6. Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement new technologies that can improve operational efficiency.
  
• Support development of digital products including mobile apps customer portals and CRM tools.
  
• Analyze ICT trends and make strategic recommendations to management.
  

Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelors degree in Information Technology Computer Science or related field.
  
• Masters degree in IT Data Science Cybersecurity or Business (added advantage).
  
• Minimum 710 years of experience in ICT with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
  
• Experience in financial services banking microfinance credit systems or fintech is highly preferred.
  
• Strong knowledge of:-
  
• ICT infrastructure networking and cloud technologies
  
• Cybersecurity frameworks and best practices
  
• Database management (SQL Oracle etc.)
  
• Core business applications (ERP loan management systems CRM)
  
• Data protection and regulatory compliance
  
  

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
  
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
  
• High integrity confidentiality and professional ethics.
  
• Strong project management and vendor management skills.
  
• Ability to work under pressure and deliver within deadlines.
  
• Clear communication and stakeholder management skills.