The Role
The Senior Director of Technology for Development (T4D) oversees the T4D team and serves as a key technology leader for program initiatives. Collaborating closely with both Programs and Information Technology (IT), this role partners with global, regional, and country-level teams to ensure proposed applications align with Mercy Corps’ enterprise technology architecture for seamless support and integration. Additionally, the Sr. Director establishes processes to evaluate, test, and assess technology solutions—determining their feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential to drive innovation that enhances program impact and operational efficiency.
Essential Responsibilities
With a focus on shaping long-term objectives, guiding teams, and driving organizational impact, this role demands a leader who can inspire action, foster collaboration, and champion forward-thinking initiatives. Strong executive presence, the ability to influence stakeholders, and a commitment to ethical decision-making are essential to navigate complex challenges and align cross-functional efforts toward shared goals. By cultivating a culture of innovation and accountability, the ideal candidate will steer the organization toward sustainable growth and competitive advantage while ensuring alignment with core values and strategic priorities.
Position Mercy Corps as a leading voice in advancing digital technology and data-driven solutions to optimize sector performance and amplify impact, both within the organization and across the broader landscape.
Play a pivotal role in identifying and communicating the ways AI can strengthen Mercy Corps’ initiatives and the wider sector, collaborating closely with program teams, IT, MEL, and other key stakeholders.
Formulate comprehensive, long-term strategies to drive the adoption and expansion of innovative program technologies within the organization. These strategies may encompass enterprise-wide digital transformation initiatives tailored to program needs, incorporating adoption frameworks, governance structures, scalable pathways, and the necessary change management measures.
Regularly refine and enhance T4D’s strategic framework and operational methodologies to drive continuous improvement and effectiveness.
Foster seamless cross-departmental collaboration to align Mercy Corps’ data management, digital technology, and AI initiatives with strategic objectives, enhancing overall efficiency and impact.
We are seeking a skilled professional to spearhead proposal and partnership development initiatives, fostering strategic alliances and driving business growth through collaborative opportunities. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in crafting compelling proposals, negotiating mutually beneficial partnerships, and cultivating long-term relationships with key stakeholders. Responsibilities include identifying potential partners, conducting market research, and aligning partnership proposals with organizational objectives. Additionally, the role requires strong communication skills, proficiency in proposal writing, and the ability to analyze partnership viability. A background in business development, sales, or a related field is preferred, along with experience in stakeholder engagement and deal structuring. Join our team to play a pivotal role in expanding our network and enhancing our market presence through innovative partnership strategies.
Develop and implement a cohesive strategy for leveraging technology to enhance impact, streamline efficiency, and reveal untapped opportunities across all aspects of our operations.
Integrate communication, knowledge management, and learning related to program-facing technology at Mercy Corps into our program models and the organization-wide Evidence and Learning Agendas.
Cultivate strategic collaborations, primarily with private sector technology partners (though not exclusively), to drive technological advancements and enhance program effectiveness in alignment with Mercy Corps’ objectives.
Steward external partnerships to achieve mutual objectives, foster collaborative value creation, and secure essential resources—such as financial support, specialized services, expertise, and product offerings.
Drive equitable, locally driven digital transformation by spearheading or contributing to initiatives that bolster local technology ecosystems, empower local innovators, and guarantee technology solutions are contextually relevant, inclusive, and sustainable.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of Mercy Corps’ program approaches, strategies, and long-term goals, and to proactively seek out technology partnerships that enhance or expedite these initiatives.
Craft or lead the development of proposals to secure necessary resources for the aforementioned initiatives.
When proposals include substantial new technological elements, it is essential to either supervise or personally develop programmatic components that are seamlessly integrated, feasible, and pioneering.
We provide assistance in deploying products and executing programs effectively. Our team ensures smooth integration and adherence to established guidelines throughout the implementation process. Additionally, we collaborate with stakeholders to address any challenges and optimize outcomes. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential, along with a keen attention to detail to meet project deadlines and specifications. Experience in project coordination and a solid understanding of product development life cycles are highly valued.
Ensure prompt and client-focused handling of T4D-related support requests submitted by program and global/regional program support teams.
Oversee the product ownership of technology applications designed for program-facing use, collaborating closely with program and business owner teams responsible for program support. This encompasses both technologies specific to individual programs or portfolios and enterprise-level solutions needed by global program support teams.
Oversee and guarantee the successful execution of all initiatives associated with awards under the purview of the T4D team.
Offer leadership and coordination in delivering assistance to advance the adoption 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 ensuring ethical technology and data use, guided by the principles of Do No Digital Harm. This involves implementing responsible AI practices, promoting algorithmic fairness, and adhering to data ethics—particularly in low-resource and high-risk environments.
Collaborate effectively with the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) and Evidence Use Teams to drive the development and implementation of optimal solutions for program data and evidence product utilization.
Collaborate effectively with Information Technology to align technology solutions and partnership development with the organization’s enterprise technology architecture vision, plans, support capacity, and financial constraints, while identifying opportunities to integrate program-facing and operational systems where feasible.
Collaborate with sector-specific teams to investigate and enhance technology applications, thereby elevating the efficiency, quality, and impact of program models and methodologies.
The role involves managing the creation and implementation of skills development programs aimed at enhancing internal talent and expertise in data utilization and technology adoption, including cutting-edge or emerging technologies, and extending these initiatives to partner organizations when feasible, particularly local partners.
Facilitate the formation and ongoing leadership of a high-impact Technology for Development (T4D) community of practice.
When necessary, provide direction in creating resources and guidance notes to assist Mercy Corps team members in utilizing digital technology responsibly and effectively.
Drive the responsible integration of AI and emerging technologies across program teams, encompassing thorough evaluation, comprehensive risk assessment, and targeted capacity-building initiatives.
Overseeing and leading a team to achieve organizational goals is a key responsibility. This involves delegating tasks, providing guidance, and ensuring team members have the necessary resources to perform effectively. Strong leadership, clear communication, and conflict-resolution skills are essential to foster a productive and cohesive work environment. Additionally, monitoring team performance, offering constructive feedback, and recognizing achievements are critical to maintaining high morale and productivity.
Oversee the T4D team and allocate financial resources effectively, ensuring workloads align with strategic priorities.
Responsibilities include overseeing the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding processes for new employees, consultants, and interns as required.
To cultivate a cohesive matrixed management structure, develop and sustain an environment where T4D team members can seamlessly collaborate on targeted initiatives across diverse teams and organizational members.
Implement current Human Resources best practices by maintaining accurate Job Descriptions, Individual Opportunity Plans (IOPS), and thorough review procedures at specified intervals.
Equip team members with the necessary information, tools, and resources to enhance their performance and achieve their goals effectively.
To uphold accountability for work plans, portfolio growth, and quality objectives, as well as organizational policies, stringent adherence to established standards and targets is required.
Safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring compliance with established protocols are fundamental duties associated with this role. Candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality and upholding the highest standards of data protection. Responsibilities include monitoring access controls, conducting regular audits, and promptly reporting any potential breaches or irregularities. Proficiency in risk assessment and familiarity with relevant regulatory frameworks are essential qualifications for this position.
To stay abreast of safeguarding best practices, continuously deepen your understanding and apply these principles to T4D’s initiatives, with particular attention to identifying and addressing safeguarding risks and mitigation strategies relevant to their specific domain.
Embody the core principles of Mercy Corps by upholding the dignity and fostering the well-being of all participants and colleagues.
Foster an environment of transparency and dialogue among team members, motivating them to share any concerns through available reporting channels, such as the Integrity Hotline and other designated options.
Demonstrates exceptional ability to guide and inspire individuals through a strong moral compass and decisive decision-making, fostering an environment of accountability and growth while aligning personal actions with core values to motivate teams toward collective success.
Consistently meet expectations while upholding leadership standards, maintaining steadiness and professionalism, particularly amid complex or high-pressure circumstances.
Adopt a growth-oriented mentality, proactively pursue varied insights, and value constructive feedback to foster ongoing development.
Uphold unwavering ethical principles while fostering an environment of respect and dignity for all individuals.
Exemplify unwavering professionalism in every facet of your role, guaranteeing that your behavior upholds Mercy Corps’ values and advances its mission without undermining its work.
We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our team as a Success Factors practitioner, responsible for driving the effective implementation and optimization of our Success Factors platform. In this role, you will collaborate closely with HR and business leaders to ensure seamless integration of Success Factors solutions, including Recruiting, Performance & Goals, Compensation, and Succession & Development. Your expertise will be critical in configuring, testing, and deploying Success Factors modules to align with our organizational objectives. Additionally, you will provide ongoing support to end-users, troubleshoot technical issues, and deliver training to enhance system adoption. A strong background in Success Factors administration, along with proficiency in HR processes and project management, is essential. You must possess excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions. This position requires a proactive approach, strong communication skills, and the capacity to work independently as well as collaboratively within a fast-paced environment.
The Senior Director of T4D is tasked with developing and executing a forward-thinking strategic vision, translating it into actionable initiatives, and driving the necessary organizational changes to foster enthusiasm and momentum. This vision must assess the deployment of current and emerging technology models and solutions, leveraging and adapting to new trends as they arise. The ideal candidate will bring a proven history of spearheading technological and organizational advancements. They must operate with initiative, showcasing outstanding leadership in collaborative ventures while aligning with Mercy Corps’ overarching strategic plans and objectives. The role demands expert proficiency in engaging with senior leadership, peer organizations, and key representatives from the private and public sectors. Additionally, the position requires extensive experience in managing and empowering teams and nurturing emerging talent. Candidates should possess strong cross-cultural and cross-political adaptability, the ability to travel and perform effectively in challenging environments, and the composure to thrive under pressure.
Seeking a candidate with a robust background in the relevant field, encompassing hands-on experience and comprehensive understanding. The ideal individual will possess a proven track record of applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, ensuring seamless integration of skills into daily operations. Familiarity with industry best practices and emerging trends is essential, along with the ability to adapt to evolving challenges.
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a closely related discipline is strongly preferred.
Highly desirable is a proven track record as a senior technology leader within an international organization, where you have successfully directed diverse technology teams and managed global delivery models involving geographically dispersed employees.
With a proven track record spanning over twelve years in technology and adjacent business domains, the ideal candidate will have demonstrated progressive career growth, with a strong preference for those who have shouldered escalating responsibilities throughout their professional journey.
A proven history of cultivating influential external alliances and securing financial support through fundraising and sales initiatives.
Seasoned professional with a proven track record in overseeing high-value, performance-based contracts exceeding multi-million-dollar thresholds.
Proficiency and ease in navigating extensive international travel requirements are essential for this role, as it entails frequent and prolonged periods abroad.
Proficiency in an international NGO or non-profit setting is highly desirable.
Seasoned in spearheading transformative organizational initiatives, with a robust focus on digital technology and data systems overhauls, particularly those involving enterprise-wide solution deployments.
Proven expertise in creating, overseeing, and optimizing service, capital, and operational budgets is required.
Proficiency in English is required; fluency in French, Spanish, or Arabic is strongly preferred.
Proven track record providing expertise in low- and middle-income country settings, either through direct fieldwork or collaborative partnerships.
Professional rewrite:
Experience with the funding priorities and strategies of prominent institutional donors, including FCDO, USAID, BMZ, and the Gates Foundation.
Proficiency in deploying AI or GenAI applications, particularly within low-resource or humanitarian settings, is highly desirable.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
12 years
