About the role
The Global Technical Lead (GTL) will spearhead the delivery of exceptional technical assistance for a cross-border initiative aimed at bolstering digital competencies and career prospects for youth with disabilities. Additionally, this critical position will advocate for enhanced workplace and labor market inclusion for individuals with disabilities across seven nations in East, West, and Southern Africa.
The Global Technical Lead (GTL) will be responsible for designing and executing the program in accordance with Sight savers’ thematic and program strategies, serving as a pivotal figure in developing forward-thinking, inclusive methodologies that foster systemic transformation and deliver lasting, sustainable benefits.
This is a full-time, on-site position requiring the successful candidate to work from the Sight savers’ office in Abuja, Accra, Lusaka, or Nairobi for five days each week.
Oversee and execute a comprehensive range of duties to ensure seamless operational performance, including managing daily workflows, coordinating cross-functional teams, and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency. Collaborate with stakeholders to align projects with organizational objectives, monitor progress through established metrics, and deliver timely reports to senior leadership. Maintain strict adherence to compliance standards, quality benchmarks, and regulatory requirements while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Additionally, lead initiatives to optimize resource allocation, mitigate risks, and drive sustainable growth through strategic planning and data-driven decision-making.
Offer strategic technical guidance for a cross-regional initiative aimed at enhancing digital competencies and employment prospects among young individuals with disabilities, concurrently promoting disability inclusion across workplaces and labor markets throughout East, West, and Southern Africa.
Work collaboratively with Global Technical Leads and implementing partners to deliver program objectives in a cohesive and high-impact manner.
Spearhead forward-thinking strategic initiatives that elevate the quality, impact, and long-term sustainability of Sight savers’ programs and operations.
You will collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to advance organizational goals in research, innovation, policy, advocacy, and communications through cross-functional initiatives.
As a senior representative of Sight savers, you will serve as a key subject-matter expert in digital inclusion and the digital economy, engaging in national, regional, and international networks, conferences, and sector-specific platforms.
The position requires occasional travel, amounting to up to 12 weeks annually.
We seek candidates with a proven track record of relevant expertise and hands-on experience in the field. Applicants should demonstrate proficiency in key technical or industry-specific competencies, along with a minimum of [X years] of direct experience in a similar role. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively are essential. Additionally, familiarity with [specific tools, software, or methodologies] is highly desirable, as is the ability to adapt to evolving challenges and priorities.
The GTL will possess deep expertise in the employment and labor market dynamics of Africa’s digital and IT industries, with a focus on skills’ development, training, and employment transition. They will demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusive development and advocate for the rights of people with disabilities through forward-thinking, results-driven initiatives.
As a strategic collaborator, the incumbent will engage with cross-functional teams and global stakeholders, leveraging their expertise to drive programmatic success. The position requires up to 12 weeks of international travel annually to facilitate program implementation and strengthen key relationships.
The position requires a candidate with a proven track record in the field, demonstrating expertise through relevant experience and qualifications. The ideal applicant should possess strong analytical skills, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and outstanding communication proficiency. Familiarity with industry-specific tools, software, or methodologies is essential, along with the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively within a team. Attention to detail, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning are also critical attributes. Additionally, the role may necessitate adherence to specific certifications or compliance standards as outlined by organizational policies.
Essential:
A master’s degree or higher—with a PhD preferred—in fields such as digital economy, digital policy, digital or economic sociology, political economy, development studies, global labor studies, or a closely related discipline is required, or equivalent professional experience may be considered.
A solid grasp of contemporary discussions and challenges in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, along with their effects on skills’ development, employment opportunities, decent work, and labor market dynamics in African and Global South settings, is essential.
With a strong background in designing, implementing, and scaling digital skills initiatives, training programs, and employment transition projects—particularly in regions of the global South—you will bring proven expertise to this role.
Proficiency in NGO or non-profit environments, particularly with donor-funded program management, is expected.
Demonstrates a strong capability to collaborate effectively with diverse labor market stakeholders, with a particular emphasis on the private sector, to enhance employment opportunities and promote decent work standards.
Adept at analyzing emerging trends in artificial intelligence and digital advancements, with a keen focus on their transformative effects on employment and labor dynamics across African and Global South settings.
Proficient in both spoken and written English, with a strong capability to craft comprehensive reports and facilitate impactful presentations.
Skilled in analytical reasoning and strategic planning, with proficiency in developing plans from both programmatic and organizational viewpoints.
Skilled in leadership, networking, and stakeholder engagement, demonstrating strong diplomacy and tact.
Experience working on TVET systems.
Proven track record in collaborating with tripartite labor market stakeholders, with a strong emphasis on partnerships with the private sector—particularly within digital industries—to enhance employment opportunities and promote decent work standards.
Demonstrates a strong capacity for cross-functional teamwork and thrives in multicultural environments.
Proven expertise in designing, refining, and implementing technical guidance frameworks and programming utilities to enhance operational efficiency and system performance.
Demonstrates a strong dedication to fostering disability inclusion, promoting equality, and advancing justice within digital and employment environments.
Capable of and committed to undertaking international travel for up to 12 weeks annually.
Desirable:
Seasoned professionals with a proven track record in championing the rights and needs of marginalized communities, with a strong focus on advancing disability inclusion, are encouraged to apply.
Fluency in French is required.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
