We are seeking a dynamic and skilled individual to join our team in a pivotal position, where you will be responsible for driving key initiatives, collaborating across departments, and delivering measurable results. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in [specific field or industry], along with [X years] of hands-on experience in [relevant skills or areas]. Strong analytical abilities, exceptional communication skills, and the capacity to thrive in a fast-paced environment are essential. Your duties will include [specific responsibility 1], [specific responsibility 2], and [specific responsibility 3], among other critical tasks. Additionally, you will be expected to [specific requirement or duty], ensuring alignment with organizational goals and fostering innovation.
The Senior Director of Technology for Development (T4D) oversees the T4D team while serving as a key technology leader interfacing directly with programs. In close collaboration with both the Programs and Information Technology (IT) departments, this role partners with global, regional, and country-level teams to ensure proposed applications align with Mercy Corps’ enterprise technology architecture for seamless integration and support. Additionally, the Senior Director establishes and refines processes to systematically identify, evaluate, pilot, and assess technology solutions—focusing on innovation that enhances program impact and operational efficiency while remaining cost-effective.
Designates the primary duties and core obligations associated with this position. Ensures alignment with organizational objectives by executing key tasks such as strategic planning, team leadership, and performance management. Requires adherence to industry standards and compliance with relevant regulations, while maintaining a focus on continuous improvement and innovation. Identifies critical decision-making responsibilities that impact operational efficiency, financial outcomes, and stakeholder relations. Demands strong analytical skills, exceptional communication abilities, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving in a dynamic work environment.
With a focus on strategic foresight, decisive leadership, and the ability to drive organizational impact, this role demands an individual capable of shaping long-term direction while inspiring teams to achieve ambitious goals. The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal skills to influence stakeholders at all levels, from executives to frontline employees, fostering alignment and driving change initiatives forward. Additionally, the position requires a blend of analytical acumen and visionary thinking to assess market trends, identify growth opportunities, and develop innovative strategies that position the organization for sustained success.
Leverage Mercy Corps’ influence and thought leadership in the realm of innovative digital technology and data solutions to bolster sector performance and impact, both externally and internally.
Positioned at the forefront of innovation, you will spearhead efforts to investigate and define how artificial intelligence can elevate Mercy Corps’ initiatives and the wider humanitarian and development sector, collaborating extensively with program teams, IT, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), as well as other essential stakeholders.
Devising annual or multi-year strategies to drive the adoption and expansion of cutting-edge program technologies across the organization is a core responsibility. Occasionally, this role may encompass enterprise-level digital transformation initiatives tailored to program requirements, such as implementation frameworks, governance structures, scaling roadmaps, and complementary change management strategies.
Systematically develop and enhance T4D’s strategic framework and operational methodologies.
Foster exceptional cross-departmental collaboration to align Mercy Corps’ data, digital technology, and AI initiatives with strategic objectives, driving enhanced efficiency and impact.
We are seeking a dynamic professional to drive strategic growth through the cultivation of high-impact proposals and the expansion of key partnerships. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in proposal development, with the ability to craft compelling, persuasive documents that secure funding and opportunities. Responsibilities include identifying potential partners, negotiating mutually beneficial agreements, and maintaining strong relationships to foster long-term collaborations. Additionally, the role requires exceptional communication skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to work collaboratively across teams to align proposals with organizational goals. Fluency in relevant industry terminology and experience with grant applications or business development are highly desirable.
Develop and implement a cohesive strategic vision that leverages technology to enhance impact and operational efficiency while uncovering innovative opportunities across our organization.
Integrate communication, knowledge management, and the understanding of program-facing technology into Mercy Corps’ program models and institutional Evidence and Learning Agendas.
Cultivate strategic alliances, especially with private sector technology collaborators, to propel Mercy Corps’ technological advancements and amplify programmatic outcomes.
Foster and maintain external collaborations to achieve mutual goals, cultivate shared value, and secure essential resources—including funding, services, expertise, and products.
Enhance equitable and locally driven digital transformation by spearheading or contributing to programs that bolster local technology ecosystems, empower local innovators, and guarantee technology solutions are contextually relevant, inclusive, and enduring.
Comprehend Mercy Corps’ programmatic methodologies, strategic initiatives, and overarching objectives, then proactively cultivate technology partnerships that enhance or propel these efforts forward.
Prepare proposals to secure funding or other resources, either independently or through direct oversight of the process.
For substantial proposals featuring novel technological components, ensure either the supervision or direct development of program components that are seamlessly integrated, feasible, and pioneering.
We provide assistance in the execution and deployment of products and programs, ensuring seamless integration and operational efficiency throughout the implementation process.
Oversee T4D-related support requests submitted by program, global, and regional program support teams, delivering timely and customer-focused solutions.
Oversee the product ownership of technology applications designed for program-facing use, coordinating with program and program support business owner teams. Responsibilities may involve managing program- or portfolio-specific technologies or enterprise-level solutions required by global program support teams.
Facilitate and oversee the execution of initiatives within the scope of awards administered by the T4D team to ensure timely and effective delivery.
Offer technical and operational assistance to facilitate the deployment of cutting-edge digital technology solutions across various programs or their supporting teams.
Mercy Corps must uphold a principled stance that safeguards all program participants by making ethical choices in the deployment of technology and data, with a focus on the principles of Do No Digital Harm. This includes ensuring responsible AI implementation, algorithmic fairness, and adherence to data ethics, particularly in environments with limited resources or heightened risk.
Collaborate effectively with the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) and Evidence Use Teams to develop and implement best-in-class solutions that enhance the utilization of program data and evidence-based products.
Collaborate effectively with Information Technology to ensure that technology solutions and partnership development are in harmony with the organization’s enterprise technology architecture vision, strategic plans, support capabilities, and financial considerations, while also identifying opportunities to integrate program-facing and operational systems where feasible.
Collaborate with specialized teams to investigate and implement innovative technological solutions that enhance the efficiency, quality, and impact of program models and strategies.
We will lead the planning, execution, and assessment of skills development initiatives aimed at enhancing the organization’s internal talent and technical capabilities, particularly in data and technology usage—including cutting-edge or emerging solutions. In suitable cases, we will extend these programs to external stakeholders, prioritizing local partners to maximize community impact.
Facilitate the development and ongoing management of a dynamic T4D community of practice to ensure its effectiveness.
When necessary, create resources and guidance notes to assist Mercy Corps team members in utilizing digital technology responsibly and effectively.
Oversee the responsible integration of AI and emerging technologies within program teams, ensuring thorough evaluation, comprehensive risk assessment, and strategic capacity building initiatives are implemented.
We oversee the development, motivation, and performance of a high-functioning team by implementing strategic leadership practices. This role involves setting clear objectives, fostering collaboration, and providing ongoing feedback to ensure alignment with organizational goals. Additionally, we identify training opportunities to enhance team capabilities, resolve conflicts proactively, and cultivate a positive and inclusive work environment that drives productivity and engagement.
Oversee the T4D team members and financial resources, ensuring workloads are aligned with strategic priorities to maximize efficiency and impact.
Responsibilities include overseeing the recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes for new employees, consultants, and interns to ensure seamless integration into the team.
To cultivate a cohesive and integrated management framework, establish and nurture a dynamic matrixed structure that empowers T4D team members to collaborate seamlessly on targeted initiatives across diverse teams and organizational stakeholders.
Implement current Human Resources best practices, ensuring job descriptions, Individual Opportunity Plans (IOPS), and comprehensive review processes are developed and maintained in accordance with established, recurring intervals.
Deliver essential information, resources, and tools to team members to enable enhanced performance and the successful attainment of their goals.
To uphold accountability for work plans, portfolio expansion, quality objectives, and adherence to organizational policies.
We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved in our organization by implementing robust safeguarding measures. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential risks to protect vulnerable individuals from harm, abuse, or exploitation. The position involves collaborating with internal teams and external stakeholders to establish and enforce safeguarding policies, conduct thorough risk assessments, and provide ongoing monitoring to maintain a secure environment. Additionally, the role demands a strong understanding of legal and ethical obligations, as well as the ability to respond effectively to safeguarding concerns through appropriate reporting and intervention strategies.
Integrate safeguarding principles into T4D’s initiatives by continuously expanding knowledge of safeguarding practices, identifying associated risks, and implementing appropriate mitigation measures within the scope of their responsibilities.
Uphold the core values of Mercy Corps by consistently demonstrating respect for the dignity and well-being of all participants and colleagues.
Foster an environment of transparency and dialogue among team members, empowering them to voice any concerns through established reporting channels, such as the Integrity Hotline and alternative methods.
Dynamic leadership capabilities are essential for this role, requiring the ability to inspire and guide teams toward achieving collective goals while fostering a collaborative and motivated work environment. You will be expected to model professional integrity, demonstrate accountability, and cultivate a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Strategic decision-making, effective communication, and the capacity to navigate complex challenges will be critical in driving team performance and organizational success. Additionally, you must prioritize and delegate tasks efficiently, ensuring alignment with broader company objectives while mentoring team members to enhance their skills and career growth.
Consistently meet and exceed expectations while maintaining unwavering composure, particularly under pressure, to exemplify outstanding leadership.
Adopt a growth-oriented mindset, proactively engage with varied viewpoints, and value constructive feedback to foster ongoing enhancement.
Uphold the utmost ethical principles by consistently demonstrating respect and dignity toward every individual.
Maintain professionalism in every facet of your behavior, ensuring your actions uphold Mercy Corps’ reputation and align with its mission and objectives without undermining its work.
Success hinges on a combination of critical factors that drive organizational growth and sustainability. These include aligning talent management strategies with business objectives, fostering a high-performance culture, and leveraging data-driven insights to inform decision-making. Strong leadership, effective communication, and the ability to adapt to evolving market conditions are equally essential. Additionally, robust employee engagement initiatives, continuous learning opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion contribute to long-term success.
The Senior Director of T4D is responsible for developing and executing a forward-thinking strategic vision, effectively translating this vision into actionable steps, and fostering the organizational changes necessary to cultivate energy and momentum around its implementation. This vision involves assessing the application of current and emerging technology models and solutions, while identifying and capitalizing on industry trends. The ideal candidate will possess a proven history of spearheading technological and organizational innovation. They must be a proactive self-starter with exceptional leadership capabilities in collaborative initiatives, along with a deep understanding of Mercy Corps’ strategic priorities and objectives. Additionally, the role requires expert-level engagement with leadership teams, partner organizations, and key stakeholders across private and public sectors. The position demands extensive experience in guiding and empowering team members and nurturing talent. The candidate should demonstrate strong adaptability to diverse cultural and political settings, along with the ability to travel and operate effectively in challenging environments while maintaining composure under pressure.
Seeking a candidate with demonstrated proficiency and hands-on experience in the specified domain. A solid background in relevant methodologies, tools, and industry best practices is essential to excel in this role. Prior exposure to similar projects or environments is highly advantageous for seamless integration and immediate contributions. The ideal applicant should possess a minimum of [X years] of professional experience, ensuring they are equipped to tackle the challenges and responsibilities outlined for this position.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a closely related discipline is strongly preferred.
With a proven track record in senior technology leadership within multinational organizations, the ideal candidate will have successfully guided diverse technology teams operating under global delivery frameworks, often spanning multiple geographic regions. Experience in managing geographically dispersed teams is particularly advantageous.
A minimum of twelve years of professional experience in the technology sector, along with relevant business expertise, is required, with a preference for candidates who have demonstrated progressively greater responsibilities throughout their careers.
Proven ability to cultivate strong external partnerships and successfully lead fundraising and sales initiatives.
Seasoned professional with a proven track record in overseeing high-value, performance-driven contracts exceeding several million dollars.
Demonstrates a proven ability to thrive in diverse global environments through frequent and extended international travel.
Non-candidate experience involving international NGOs or non-profits is strongly preferred, though not mandatory.
Proven track record in spearheading organizational change efforts, with a specific focus on digital technology and data systems transformations, particularly those involving the deployment of enterprise-wide solutions.
Proven expertise in creating, overseeing, and optimizing service, capital, and operating budgets throughout their development and implementation phases.
Proficiency in English is essential; working knowledge of French, Spanish, or Arabic is highly desirable.
Proficiency in operating within or collaborating closely with environments situated in low- and middle-income countries is required.
Proficient knowledge of key institutional donors, including the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, alongside an understanding of their respective technology funding priorities.
We value candidates who have prior experience deploying AI or GenAI applications, with a preference for those who have worked in low-resource or humanitarian settings.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
12 years
