The Role
The Senior Director of Technology for Development (T4D) oversees the T4D team and serves as a key technology leader in direct engagement with program initiatives. Collaborating closely with both Programs and Information Technology (IT), the Senior Director partners with global, regional, and country-level counterparts to ensure proposed applications can be effectively supported and integrated within Mercy Corps’ enterprise technology framework. Additionally, the Senior Director spearheads the establishment of processes to identify, evaluate, pilot, and assess technology solutions, determining their effectiveness and cost-efficiency to drive innovation that aligns with programmatic impact and efficiency goals.
Overseeing key operational duties with precision and accountability, this role encompasses a range of critical tasks central to the position’s success. Among the primary obligations are strategic planning, team leadership, and the execution of projects aligned with organizational objectives. Additionally, the position demands proficient problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and a strong commitment to meeting deadlines. Candidates must demonstrate advanced organizational skills, effective communication, and the capacity to collaborate across departments. A proven track record in a similar capacity, along with relevant technical expertise, is required to excel in this dynamic environment.
With a focus on strategic foresight, leadership acumen, and the ability to drive meaningful influence, the ideal candidate will demonstrate a keen capacity to shape and execute long-term organizational goals. They must exhibit strong decision-making skills, inspire teams through clear vision, and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. This role demands the ability to navigate complex challenges, align cross-functional stakeholders, and champion transformative initiatives that deliver sustainable growth. Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills are essential to articulate compelling strategies, motivate high-performing teams, and influence key decision-makers at all levels of the organization.
Champion Mercy Corps’ strategic influence and intellectual leadership in leveraging cutting-edge digital technologies and data-driven solutions to elevate sector performance and amplify impact—both externally and internally.
Play a pivotal role in identifying and defining opportunities for AI to strengthen 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 to drive the adoption and scaling of innovative program technologies across the organization. In certain instances, these efforts may encompass enterprise-level digital transformation initiatives specifically tailored to program needs, incorporating adoption frameworks, governance structures, scaling methodologies, and corresponding change management processes.
Develop and enhance T4D’s strategic framework and operational methodologies on an ongoing basis.
Facilitate seamless interdepartmental collaboration to align Mercy Corps’ data, digital technology, and AI initiatives with its strategic objectives, driving enhanced efficiency and impact.
Cultivating strategic alliances and securing business proposals are central responsibilities of this role. The position requires proficiency in negotiating agreements, fostering long-term partnerships, and identifying collaborative opportunities that drive organizational growth. Candidates must possess strong interpersonal skills, a results-driven mindset, and a proven track record in proposal development and stakeholder engagement.
Develop and implement a cohesive strategy for leveraging technology to enhance impact and efficiency, fostering innovation and unlocking untapped potential across all operational areas.
Integrate communication, knowledge management, and insights on program-facing technology into Mercy Corps’ program models and the organization’s Evidence and Learning Agendas.
Foster strategic collaborations, especially with private sector technology partners (though not exclusively), to drive advancements in Mercy Corps’ technological capabilities and amplify programmatic outcomes.
Cultivate and maintain external partnerships to effectively achieve mutually agreed-upon goals, foster collaborative value creation, and secure critical resources—including funding, specialized services, expertise, and products.
Drive inclusive and community-driven digital transformation through the leadership or facilitation of initiatives that bolster local technology ecosystems, empower local innovators, and guarantee technology solutions are culturally relevant, inclusive, and enduring.
To fully grasp Mercy Corps’ program methodologies, strategic frameworks, and overarching goals, proactively identify and cultivate technology partnerships that enhance or expedite their realization.
Develop and lead the preparation of proposals aimed at securing necessary resources to advance the aforementioned initiatives.
When proposals incorporate substantial new technological components, it is essential to either supervise or personally develop programmatic elements that are seamlessly integrated, feasible, and groundbreaking.
We provide assistance in implementing products and programs to ensure their successful deployment and integration. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to facilitate smooth operational execution, addressing any challenges that arise during the implementation phase, and ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. Key responsibilities include coordinating resources, managing timelines, and maintaining clear communication channels to support end-to-end program development and delivery.
Oversee support requests related to T4D in collaboration with program and global/regional program support teams, maintaining a prompt and client-focused approach to service delivery.
Oversee the product ownership of technology applications designed for program-facing use, in alignment with the requirements of program and program support business owner teams. This responsibility may encompass program- or portfolio-specific technologies, as well as enterprise-level solutions needed by global program support teams.
Oversee and guarantee the successful execution of activities associated with awards under the purview of the T4D team.
Deliver or coordinate the delivery of assistance for deploying cutting-edge digital technology solutions within operational programs or their supporting teams.
Ensure Mercy Corps upholds a principled stance that safeguards all program participants by making ethically sound decisions regarding the deployment of technology and data. This involves applying the Do No Digital Harm framework, which encompasses responsible AI practices, equitable algorithmic design, and rigorous data ethics—particularly in low-resource and high-risk environments.
Collaborate effectively with the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) and Evidence Use Teams to develop and implement best-in-class solutions for program data and evidence product utilization.
Collaborate effectively with the Information Technology team to ensure technology solutions and partnership development are in harmony with the organization’s enterprise technology architecture vision, strategic plans, support capabilities, and financial constraints, while proactively identifying opportunities for integration between program-facing and operational systems where feasible.
Collaborate with sector-specific teams to investigate and enhance technological solutions, thereby increasing the efficiency, quality, and efficacy of program designs and methodologies.
We are responsible for managing the creation and implementation of training programs designed to enhance internal talent and expertise in data utilization and technological applications, including cutting-edge or emerging technologies. These initiatives may also be extended to partners, with an emphasis on collaborating with local stakeholders when deemed suitable.
Facilitate the formation and ongoing leadership of a robust and impactful T4D community of practice.
As required, provide direction in creating resources and guidance notes to facilitate responsible and effective utilization of digital technology by members of the Mercy Corps team.
Responsible for championing the effective adoption of AI and other emerging technologies across program teams, overseeing their evaluation, conducting thorough risk assessments, and fostering capacity-building initiatives.
Manages and leads a team by providing direction, support, and motivation to achieve organizational goals and objectives. Delegates tasks effectively, monitors performance, and fosters a collaborative work environment. Ensures team members have the necessary resources and training to excel in their roles. Resolves conflicts, addresses performance issues, and implements strategies to enhance productivity and engagement.
Oversee the T4D team and allocate financial resources efficiently, ensuring workloads align with strategic objectives.
Responsibilities include overseeing the recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes for new employees, consultants, and interns as required.
To facilitate T4D’s integrated approach, establish and nurture a dynamic matrixed management framework that enables seamless collaboration among team members on targeted initiatives across diverse teams and organizational units.
Implement state-of-the-art Human Resources methodologies by maintaining current job descriptions, individual development plans, and comprehensive performance review cycles at scheduled intervals.
Deliver essential information, resources, and tools to team members to enhance their performance and facilitate the achievement of their goals.
Ensure responsibility for adherence to work plans, the expansion of the portfolio, and the fulfillment of quality objectives and organizational policies.
Safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring compliance with relevant policies and regulations are integral components of this role. This position requires vigilance in identifying and mitigating potential risks to data integrity and confidentiality. Candidates must possess a strong commitment to upholding ethical standards and protecting stakeholders’ interests. Responsibilities include monitoring access controls, conducting regular audits, and addressing any breaches promptly. Additionally, the role demands proactive measures to prevent unauthorized disclosures and to foster a culture of security awareness throughout the organization.
To deepen understanding of safeguarding principles and apply them to T4D’s initiatives, actively incorporate safeguarding risks and mitigation strategies into relevant aspects of their work.
Respect and uphold the core values of Mercy Corps by fostering an environment that prioritizes the dignity and well-being of all participants as well as colleagues.
Foster an environment of transparency and open dialogue within the team by encouraging members to share any concerns through available reporting channels, such as the Integrity Hotline and other established options.
Demonstrates exceptional leadership in guiding teams through challenges, fostering a collaborative environment, and driving results with vision and integrity. Exhibits strong emotional intelligence, adaptability, and decision-making skills to inspire and motivate others toward shared objectives. Encourages innovation, accountability, and continuous growth while maintaining alignment with organizational goals. Serves as a trusted mentor, resolving conflicts and empowering team members to reach their full potential.
Consistently uphold leadership standards by meeting expectations and remaining composed, particularly in high-pressure scenarios.
We encourage adopting a growth-oriented mindset, proactively seeking varied viewpoints, and valuing constructive feedback to foster ongoing advancement.
Uphold uncompromising ethical principles by ensuring all interactions reflect respect and dignity for every individual.
Uphold the highest professional standards in all personal and professional interactions, ensuring your behavior consistently embodies the values and integrity of Mercy Corps while safeguarding its mission and objectives.
Achieving success requires leveraging key performance indicators and aligning individual contributions with organizational goals to drive measurable growth and innovation. Essential qualifications include strong analytical skills, adaptability to evolving market demands, and the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams. Primary responsibilities encompass setting strategic objectives, monitoring progress through data-driven insights, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Proficiency in relevant tools and methodologies, along with a commitment to professional development, ensures sustained performance and competitive advantage.
The Senior Director of T4D is responsible for developing and executing a forward-thinking strategic vision, converting that vision into actionable initiatives, and driving the organizational transformations necessary to foster energy and momentum around its implementation. This role requires evaluating the adoption of both established and innovative technology models and solutions, while identifying and leveraging emerging trends to enhance impact. The ideal candidate will possess a proven history of spearheading technological and organizational advancements. They must be a proactive leader with a strong capacity to guide collaborative efforts, aligning them with Mercy Corps’ top-tier strategic plans and objectives. Additionally, they should demonstrate expert-level engagement with executive leadership, peer organizations, and high-level representatives across private and public sectors. The position demands extensive experience in team leadership and talent development, coupled with the ability to thrive in diverse cultural and political contexts. The candidate must also be prepared to travel extensively, operate effectively in challenging environments, and maintain composure under pressure.
Seeking a candidate with a solid foundation in subject expertise and hands-on experience in relevant fields. The ideal applicant should possess a proven track record of applying knowledge effectively to solve complex problems. Proficiency in utilizing specialized tools, techniques, and methodologies is essential. Prior experience in similar roles or industries will be highly advantageous. The position demands the ability to leverage experience to drive results and contribute meaningfully to team objectives.
A degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a closely related field—at either the bachelor’s or master’s level—is strongly preferred.
A proven track record in senior technology leadership within an international organization is preferred, particularly in roles involving the management of diverse technology teams operating across global delivery models and geographically dispersed workforces.
Over a decade of hands-on experience in technology and associated business domains is required, with a demonstrated preference for candidates who have progressively assumed higher levels of responsibility.
Achieved success in cultivating strong external collaborations and driving revenue through fundraising and sales initiatives.
A proven track record of overseeing high-value, performance-dependent agreements totaling millions of dollars.
Proficiency and confidence in undertaking extensive international travel are essential requirements for this role. Candidates must demonstrate a strong capacity to manage and adapt to diverse international environments, ensuring seamless integration and performance across varied global settings.
International experience with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or non-profits is highly desirable.
Proven track record in spearheading organizational change initiatives, with a strong emphasis on digital technology and data systems transformations, particularly the successful deployment of enterprise-wide solutions.
Proven expertise in crafting, overseeing, and optimizing service, capital, and operational budgets through strategic planning and financial management.
Proficiency in English is essential; working knowledge of French, Spanish, or Arabic is advantageous.
We seek candidates with a proven track record of engagement in low- and middle-income country settings, whether through direct work experience or collaborative partnerships.
Proficient understanding of key institutional donors, including FCDO, USAID, BMZ, and the Gates Foundation, along with their strategic priorities for technology funding initiatives.
Proficiency in deploying AI or Generative AI applications, particularly in low-resource or humanitarian environments, is highly desirable.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
12 years
