About the role
The Global Technical Lead (GTL) will spearhead the delivery of expert technical assistance for a multi-country initiative aimed at strengthening digital competencies and employment prospects for young individuals with disabilities. In this critical position, the GTL will also advocate for enhanced disability inclusion within workplaces and labor markets across seven nations in East, West, and Southern Africa.
The Global Technical Lead (GTL) will align the program’s design and implementation with Sight savers’ thematic and program strategies, while spearheading the development of innovative, inclusive approaches to foster systemic change and sustainable impact.
This full-time position requires the successful candidate to be based in the Sight savers’ office in one of the following cities—Abuja, Accra, Lusaka, or Nairobi—and to work on-site five days a week.
The role encompasses a diverse array of duties, including overseeing daily operations to ensure seamless workflow efficiency, managing cross-functional teams to align with organizational goals, and implementing strategic initiatives to drive productivity and innovation. The position requires meticulous attention to detail in analyzing performance metrics, identifying areas for improvement, and developing actionable solutions to enhance operational excellence. Additionally, the individual will be responsible for fostering collaborative partnerships with stakeholders, maintaining compliance with industry regulations, and delivering high-quality results within established timelines. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and exceptional communication skills are essential to thrive in this dynamic environment.
Deliver high-level technical guidance to a cross-regional initiative aimed at enhancing digital competencies and employment prospects for young individuals with disabilities, simultaneously fostering greater disability inclusion in workplaces and labor markets throughout East, West, and Southern Africa.
Work collaboratively with Global Technical Leads and implementing partners to ensure the cohesive and high-impact delivery of program objectives.
Spearhead the development and implementation of cutting-edge strategic initiatives to elevate the quality, relevance, and sustainability of Sight savers’ programs and impact.
You will collaborate on interdisciplinary initiatives spanning research, innovation, policy development, advocacy, and communications, engaging with both internal collaborators and external partners to drive collective impact.
As a senior representative of Sight savers, you will serve as a distinguished subject-matter expert in digital inclusion and the digital economy, engaging with national, regional, and international networks, conferences, and sector platforms.
The position requires travel commitments of up to 12 weeks annually.
We are seeking candidates with a robust background in relevant technical or professional domains, demonstrating a proven track record of success in similar roles. Applicants should possess a minimum of [X] years of hands-on experience, along with specialized expertise in [specific skills or tools]. Familiarity with [industry-specific frameworks, methodologies, or regulations] is essential, as is the ability to apply this knowledge effectively to drive measurable outcomes. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are required to collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Additionally, prior experience in [specific tasks or projects] is highly desirable, along with any relevant certifications or educational qualifications.
The GTL will possess extensive knowledge of Africa’s digital and IT sectors, with a specific focus on employment, labor markets, skills development, training, and the transition to employment. They will demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusive development and advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, driving forward innovative and impactful programming initiatives.
This position requires a strategic collaborator capable of thriving in multicultural teams and operating across global regions. Key responsibilities include undertaking international travel for up to 12 weeks annually to facilitate program execution and foster stakeholder relationships.
The ideal candidate must meet the following criteria to be considered for this position. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in the field is required, along with a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline. Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools is essential, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment is necessary. Strong problem-solving skills and the capacity to manage multiple priorities effectively are also required.
Essential:
A master’s degree or higher—preferably a PhD—in digital economy, digital policy, digital or economic sociology, political economy, development studies, global labor studies, or a closely related field is required, along with equivalent professional experience.
Seeking a candidate with a clear grasp of contemporary discussions and challenges in AI and digital technologies, as well as their broader impact on skills’ development, employment opportunities, fair labor practices, and labor market dynamics within African and Global South contexts.
Seasoned professionals with a proven track record in designing, implementing, and scaling digital skills initiatives, vocational training programs, and employment transition strategies—particularly within underserved regions of the global South—are encouraged to apply.
Proficiency in managing donor-funded programs within non-governmental or non-profit organizations is required.
Demonstrates a strong track record of collaborating with diverse labor market stakeholders, with a specific focus on engaging the private sector to enhance employment opportunities and promote decent work standards.
A comprehensive grasp of recent advancements in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, along with their potential impacts on employment and labor markets across African and Global South regions, is essential.
Fluent proficiency in both spoken and written English is required, enabling the preparation of comprehensive reports and the delivery of impactful presentations.
Demonstrates exceptional analytical and strategic thinking capabilities, enabling effective planning from both programmatic and organizational viewpoints.
Demonstrates exceptional leadership abilities, fosters strong professional networks, and effectively engages with stakeholders, all while maintaining diplomacy and tact in all interactions.
Experience working on TVET systems.
With a proven track record in collaborating with key tripartite labor market stakeholders—focusing on private sector engagement, particularly within digital industries—you will drive advancements in employment standards and promote decent work outcomes.
Demonstrated experience in fostering cross-functional partnerships and contributing to high-performing, diverse team environments.
Developing and adapting technical guidance and programming tools is an area of expertise required for this role.
Demonstrating an unwavering dedication to fostering disability inclusion, equity, and justice within digital environments and employment sectors is fundamental to this role.
Demonstrates flexibility and capacity to undertake international travel for periods extending up to 12 weeks annually.
Desirable:
Proficiency in championing the rights and needs of underserved communities, with a strong focus on promoting accessibility and equity for individuals with disabilities.
Fluent command of the French language is essential.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
