The Role
The Senior Director of Technology for Development (T4D) oversees the T4D team and serves as a key technology leader interfacing with program stakeholders. This role collaborates closely with both Programs and Information Technology (IT), engaging with global, regional, and country-level partners to ensure proposed applications align with Mercy Corps’ enterprise technology architecture and receive proper support and integration. Additionally, the Sr. Director establishes methodologies to evaluate, validate, pilot, and assess technology solutions, determining their cost-effectiveness and impact while driving innovation that enhances program efficiency and effectiveness.
The following position demands meticulous execution of key duties, including but not limited to strategic planning, project oversight, and cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in [specific skills], ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulatory requirements. Responsibilities encompass leading initiatives, managing stakeholder relationships, and maintaining operational efficiency. Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities are imperative, along with exceptional communication skills to convey complex concepts clearly. Proficiency in [relevant software/tools] is required, and a track record of delivering measurable results in [specific area] is highly valued. The role demands adaptability to evolving priorities while upholding accountability for outcomes.
With a clear strategic vision, exceptional leadership capabilities, and the power to inspire and influence others, this role demands the ability to guide teams toward long-term success while fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Responsibilities include setting and executing organizational priorities, aligning resources with high-impact initiatives, and driving sustainable growth through decisive action and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a track record of leading transformative change, cultivating high-performing teams, and leveraging influence to shape strategy and drive organizational excellence. Strong interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complex challenges are essential for navigating dynamic business environments and delivering measurable results.
Lead the advancement of Mercy Corps’ influence and intellectual leadership in leveraging innovative digital technologies and data-driven solutions to optimize sector performance and maximize impact, both externally and internally.
Drive innovation by spearheading the strategic integration of AI across Mercy Corps’ initiatives and the wider sector, collaborating closely with program teams, IT, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), and other key stakeholders.
Design annual or multi-year strategies aimed at driving the adoption and expansion of innovative program technologies throughout the organization. Occasionally, these strategies may encompass enterprise-level digital transformation initiatives tailored to program needs, incorporating adoption frameworks, governance structures, scaling pathways, and complementary change management processes.
Consistently refine and enhance T4D’s strategic framework and operational methodologies.
Facilitate seamless interdepartmental collaboration to uphold strategic alignment in Mercy Corps’ utilization of data, digital technology, and AI, driving enhanced efficiency and impact.
We are seeking a dedicated professional to drive strategic growth initiatives through the cultivation of proposals and partnerships. This role will be responsible for identifying, developing, and securing high-impact opportunities that align with organizational objectives. Key responsibilities include crafting compelling proposals, negotiating agreements, and fostering long-term collaborative relationships with key stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical, communication, and project management skills, along with a proven track record in proposal development and partnership management. Familiarity with industry trends, market analysis, and stakeholder engagement strategies is essential.
Develop and implement a cohesive strategy for leveraging technology to enhance impact and operational efficiency while uncovering new avenues for growth across our organization.
Embed communication, knowledge management, and insights into program-facing technology at Mercy Corps to enhance our program models and align with organization-wide Evidence and Learning Agendas.
Foster strategic alliances, especially—but not exclusively—with private sector technology collaborators, to drive forward Mercy Corps’ objectives in technological advancement and programmatic effectiveness.
Steward external partnerships to achieve mutual goals, cultivate shared value, and secure critical resources—including funding, services, expertise, and products.
Drive equitable and locally driven digital transformation by spearheading or contributing to initiatives that bolster local technology ecosystems, empower local innovators, and guarantee that technology solutions are contextually relevant, accessible, and sustainable.
To thoroughly grasp Mercy Corps’ program approaches, strategies, and overarching ambitions, and to proactively seek technology partnerships that enhance or expedite these objectives.
Prepare and submit proposals to secure necessary resources, either independently or through oversight of the process.
When significant new technology elements are present in proposals, you will either lead or personally craft programmatic components that are seamlessly integrated, feasible, and groundbreaking.
Provide assistance with the execution and integration of products and programs to ensure seamless adoption and operational alignment.
Handle T4D-related support requests from program, global, and regional support teams, delivering responsive, customer-focused service solutions.
Oversee the product ownership of technology applications designed for program-facing operations in collaboration with program and program support business owner teams. This responsibility may encompass technologies specific to individual programs or portfolios, as well as enterprise-wide solutions necessary for global program support teams.
Oversee and guarantee the successful execution of initiatives funded by awards within the T4D team’s purview.
Deliver or coordinate the delivery of assistance for the execution of cutting-edge digital technology solutions across programs or their supporting teams.
Mercy Corps must uphold a principled stance that safeguards all program participants by integrating ethical considerations into technology and data deployment, with strict adherence to the principles of Do No Digital Harm. This includes prioritizing responsible AI practices, ensuring algorithmic fairness, and reinforcing robust data ethics, particularly in environments with limited resources or elevated risks.
Collaborate with the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) and Evidence Use Teams to drive the development and implementation of optimal program data solutions and evidence-based product utilization.
Collaborate extensively with Information Technology to guarantee that technology solutions and partnership development are in harmony with the organization’s enterprise technology architecture vision, strategic plans, support capabilities, and financial constraints, while also identifying opportunities for integration between program-facing and operational systems wherever feasible.
Collaborate with sector-specific teams to identify and implement innovative technological solutions that enhance the efficiency, quality, and impact of program models and strategies.
Responsibilities include directing the creation and implementation of skills-enhancement programs designed to cultivate internal talent and deepen expertise in data usage and technology, including cutting-edge or emerging solutions. Additionally, these initiatives may extend to external collaborators, with a particular emphasis on local partnerships where applicable.
Facilitate the creation and ongoing management of a high-functioning T4D community of practice.
When necessary, provide direction in creating resources and guidance notes aimed at fostering responsible and effective utilization of digital technology among Mercy Corps team members.
Drive the responsible integration of AI and emerging technologies across program teams by conducting thorough evaluations, performing comprehensive risk assessments, and fostering capacity-building initiatives.
Oversee the leadership and coordination of a collaborative group to ensure optimal performance and productivity, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages professional growth and accountability among team members.
Oversee the T4D team members and financial resources, ensuring workload allocation aligns with strategic priorities.
Responsibilities include overseeing the recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes for new employees, consultants, and interns as required.
To cultivate a cohesive, matrixed management structure, develop and maintain an integrated system that empowers T4D team members to collaborate seamlessly on targeted initiatives across diverse teams and organizational stakeholders.
Implement HR best practices by maintaining current Job Descriptions, Individual Opportunity Plans (IOPS), and thorough review processes at scheduled intervals.
Deliver essential information, resources, and tools to team members to enhance their performance and facilitate the achievement of their goals.
Ensure adherence to established work plans, portfolio growth targets, and quality benchmarks while complying with organizational policies.
Ensures the protection and well-being of individuals by diligently implementing safeguarding policies and procedures, promptly addressing any concerns or allegations, and maintaining a secure environment for all stakeholders. Requires a thorough understanding of safeguarding principles, relevant legislation, and best practices to identify risks and mitigate potential harm. Duties include conducting risk assessments, reporting incidents in accordance with organizational protocols, and collaborating with external agencies when necessary to ensure compliance and uphold safety standards.
Integrate safeguarding principles into T4D’s operations by continuously expanding knowledge of safeguarding practices and applying this understanding identifying and address relevant risks and mitigation strategies within their scope of work.
Champion Mercy Corps’ core values by upholding the dignity and well-being of participants and colleagues alike.
Foster an environment of transparency and open dialogue among team members, actively encouraging the submission of reports for any concerns through available reporting channels, such as the Integrity Hotline and other designated options.
We are seeking a dynamic and visionary individual to provide strong personal leadership, driving growth, innovation, and operational excellence within our organization. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, enabling them to inspire and motivate teams while fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. Responsibilities include setting strategic direction, aligning teams with organizational goals, and cultivating an environment that encourages creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement. The role demands a proactive mindset, the ability to navigate complex challenges, and a commitment to developing future leaders. A proven track record in leadership, coupled with a passion for mentoring and coaching, is essential for success in this position.
Consistently uphold leadership excellence by meeting expectations with unwavering professionalism and maintaining composure under pressure, regardless of circumstances.
Foster a commitment to lifelong learning by proactively pursuing varied viewpoints, integrating constructive feedback, and leveraging these insights to enhance performance and drive ongoing development.
Uphold the utmost ethical principles while demonstrating unwavering respect and dignity toward every individual.
Exhibit professionalism consistently across all facets of your role, maintaining behaviors that uphold Mercy Corps’ reputation and integrity while safeguarding its mission and objectives.
Success Factors encompass a blend of soft skills, technical abilities, and professional experiences that align with the demands of the role. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in relevant software, analytical thinking, and effective communication to excel. Experience in project management, leadership, or problem-solving is often required, along with a proven track record in similar positions. Strong organizational skills and adaptability to dynamic environments are essential, as is the ability to collaborate across teams and stakeholders. A commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends is also expected.
The Senior Director of T4D is tasked with formulating and executing a forward-thinking strategic vision, converting this vision into actionable initiatives, and spearheading the organizational transformations needed to foster enthusiasm and drive progress toward its realization. This role requires evaluating the integration of existing and emerging technology models and solutions, while identifying and capitalizing on key industry trends. The ideal candidate will possess a proven history of leading technological and organizational advancements, demonstrating initiative, strong collaborative leadership skills, and a deep comprehension of Mercy Corps’ overarching strategic goals. Additionally, the position demands expert-level engagement with leadership teams, peer organizations, and high-level stakeholders across private and public sectors. A core responsibility includes extensive experience in managing and empowering teams, as well as nurturing emerging talent. The selected individual must excel in diverse cultural and political settings, with the adaptability to travel and operate effectively in challenging environments while maintaining composure under pressure.
Possesses expertise and hands-on experience in the specified area, with a proven track record of applying relevant skills in practical settings. Demonstrates familiarity with industry standards, best practices, and emerging trends through prior roles or educational background. Exhibits the ability to analyze complex situations, solve problems efficiently, and adapt to evolving challenges. Requires a minimum of [X] years of professional experience, with preference given to candidates who have held similar positions in [specific industry/field].
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related discipline is strongly preferred.
A proven track record in senior technology leadership within an international organization is preferred, particularly in roles that involve managing diverse technology teams and implementing global delivery models with geographically dispersed staff.
With a minimum of twelve years of experience in technology and related business domains, candidates are expected to demonstrate a progressive career trajectory marked by escalating levels of responsibility.
Achieved consistent success in cultivating high-impact external collaborations and leading successful fundraising and sales initiatives.
Proven expertise in overseeing high-value, performance-based agreements totaling millions of dollars.
Seasoned in undertaking frequent, long-haul international travel with ease and confidence.
Professional rewrite:
Prior experience with international NGOs or non-profits is advantageous.
Proven track record in spearheading organizational change initiatives, with a strong emphasis on digital technology and data system transformations, particularly in deploying enterprise-wide solutions.
Proficiency in developing and overseeing service, capital, and operating budgets is essential.
Fluency in English is mandatory, while working proficiency in French, Spanish, or Arabic is highly desirable.
Proven track record in engaging with or operating within low- and middle-income country environments is essential.
Proficient knowledge of technology funding priorities among prominent institutional donors, including FCDO, USAID, BMZ, and the Gates Foundation.
Individuals with prior experience implementing AI or GenAI solutions, particularly in environments with limited resources or within humanitarian settings, are highly desirable.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
12 years
