Chief Information Officer: Information and Communi

CORE PURPOSE OF JOB

To strategically lead the University’s digital transformation agenda in line with its Vision 2030 through the effective leverage and implementation of modernised and smart digital tools, innovation, communication technology infrastructure, and systems, in support of learning and teaching, research, engagement, holistic student experience and the institution’s operations.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

• To lead the development, implementation, and renewal of the institution’s digital transformation strategy.
• To oversee the design, implementation and maintenance of the University’s digitalisation infrastructure and systems.
• To oversee governance and compliance in the digital ecosystem thereby assuring business continuity.
• To foster sound stakeholder engagement, collaboration, and partnerships.
• To facilitate and enable meaningful people management practices and experiences within the Division.
• To ensure the effective, responsible, and efficient management and utilisation of the Division’s finances and resources.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Strategic and Transformative Leadership: Demonstrated strategic leadership with the ability to conceptualise and implement digital transformation initiatives in alignment with institutional priorities and objectives.
• Growth and Anticipatory Mindset: A forward-thinking mindset that anticipates technological trends and applies innovative Digitalisation Services solutions to enhance operational efficiency and institutional growth.
• Digitalisation Expertise: Deep expertise in the Digital Ecosystem, including cybersecurity, cloud computing, software-based tools including AI, and data governance, with the ability to develop and execute comprehensive strategies in these domains. In-depth knowledge of trends and future digitalisation directions including a research orientation augmented with strong links with higher education /industry drivers.
• Change Leadership: A strong track record of successfully leading large-scale Digitalisation Services change initiatives, driving organisational agility and resilience in an evolving digital landscape.
• Project Management: Mastery in adaptive project management, ensuring the efficient execution of complex Digitalisation Services projects within defined timelines and budgets while mitigating risks and optimising resources.
• Collaboration and Influencing Skills: Exceptional communication, consultation, collaboration and influencing skills, with the ability to engage and build strategic relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including industry leaders and academia, to foster innovation and knowledge-sharing.
• Policy Development: Advanced competency in Digitalisation Services policy development, ensuring alignment with national regulatory frameworks and institutional values while maintaining compliance with evolving legal and ethical standards.
• Financial Acumen: Financial acumen with experience in budgeting, procurement and the strategic allocation of Digitalisation Services resources to maximise return on investment and cost-effectiveness.
• Analytical and Critical-thinking capabilities: Strong analytical and critical thinking capabilities, enabling the assessment of complex Digitalisation Services challenges and the development of data-driven solutions that enhance institutional effectiveness.
• People Leadership: A dynamic and inspirational leader dedicated to mentoring, coaching and cultivating a high-performance Digitalisation Services team while fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
• Governance, Sustainability, and Resource Stewardship: A deep commitment to sustainability and Digitalisation Services governance, ensuring the implementation of energy-efficient, environmentally conscious digital solutions that align with global best practices and institutional objectives.

Requirements

• A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related qualification.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of uninterrupted demonstrable experience in Digitalisation Services leadership, with at least 5 years in a senior management or executive role.
• Proven track record in leading large-scale digital transformation initiatives, modernising digital services infrastructure, and implementing enterprise technology solutions that enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in management of cybersecurity including designing and deploying cybersecurity-leading standards and frameworks.
• Strong knowledge of governance standards and integrating ethical AI technologies to support institutional resilience.
• Strong expertise in governance risk and compliance with a focus on Digitalisation Services policy development, strategic management, and risk management in complex and dynamic environments.
• Demonstrated ability to engage and collaborate with higher education / industry partners and regulatory bodies to influence and advance digital transformation at an institutional level.

All shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo psychometric assessments. Furthermore, it is expected that all short-listed candidates will:

• Permit to undergo verifications of qualifications, publications, credit records, and criminal records as well as any other verification deemed appropriate by the University.
• Deliver a 15-minute presentation, the topic of which will be communicated timeously.
• Provide details of at least three individuals who can provide professional references.

SCREENING QUESTIONS

• Do you have a Master’s degree?
• Do you have 8-10 years of uninterrupted experience in Digitalisation Services leadership, with at least 5 years in senior management or executive role experience?