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Home Jobs Nairobi Technology for Development Senior Director

Technology for Development Senior Director

Mercy Corps  · NGO / Non-Profit Associations

Full Time Nairobi
Nairobi
Deadline: 10 September 2026
Posted June 11, 2026

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional to join our team in this pivotal position. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of delivering exceptional results in a similar capacity, coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Key responsibilities include overseeing daily operations, managing cross-functional teams, and driving strategic initiatives to achieve organizational goals. Proficiency in [specific tools/technologies] and a minimum of [X] years of relevant experience are required. The successful applicant will demonstrate exceptional communication skills, leadership qualities, and a commitment to fostering innovation within a collaborative environment. This role offers opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a significant impact on our company’s success.

The Senior Director of Technology for Development (T4D) oversees the T4D team and serves as a key technology leader for program initiatives. In close collaboration with both Programs and Information Technology (IT), the Senior Director partners with global, regional, and country-level stakeholders to ensure proposed applications are seamlessly supported and integrated with Mercy Corps’ enterprise technology architecture. Additionally, the Senior Director spearheads the establishment of processes to identify, evaluate, pilot, and assess the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of technology solutions, driving innovation that aligns with programmatic impact and efficiency goals.

Overseeing a comprehensive range of key duties, this role encompasses critical tasks that drive operational efficiency and strategic growth. The position demands meticulous attention to detail, ensuring adherence to high-quality standards while fostering collaboration across departments. Successful candidates must demonstrate proficiency in [list any required skills/tools] and possess [X years] of relevant experience in [specific field or industry]. Additional qualifications include strong analytical capabilities, exceptional problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. Responsibilities extend to [list major responsibilities], with accountability for [specific outcomes or metrics]. The ideal candidate will exhibit leadership qualities, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement, aligning with the organization’s long-term objectives.

Crafting and executing a forward-thinking strategic vision is essential, as is demonstrating strong leadership to guide teams toward shared objectives. The role demands the ability to inspire and influence stakeholders at all levels, fostering collaboration and driving alignment with organizational goals. Proven experience in leading cross-functional initiatives and making high-impact decisions is critical, along with a track record of motivating teams to achieve exceptional results. Excellent communication skills are required to articulate complex ideas clearly and secure buy-in from diverse audiences.

Leverage Mercy Corps’ thought leadership and influence to champion the integration of cutting-edge digital technology and data solutions, thereby elevating sector performance and impact—both within the organization and across external stakeholders.

Play a pivotal role in investigating and defining how artificial intelligence can strengthen Mercy Corps’ initiatives and the wider industry, collaborating closely with program teams, IT, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), and other key stakeholders.

Craft annual or multi-year strategies to drive the adoption and expansion of innovative program technologies throughout the organization. Occasionally, these initiatives may encompass enterprise-level digital transformation solutions tailored for program stakeholders, incorporating adoption frameworks, governance structures, scaling pathways, and complementary change management practices.

Refine and enhance T4D’s strategic framework and operational methodologies on an ongoing basis.

Facilitate seamless cross-departmental collaboration to maintain strategic alignment in Mercy Corps’ management of data, digital technology, and AI, driving enhanced efficiency and impact.

We are seeking a dynamic professional to drive proposal and partnership development initiatives, fostering strategic alliances and securing new business opportunities. The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in proposal management, with a proven ability to craft compelling bids, negotiate agreements, and cultivate long-term relationships with key stakeholders. Responsibilities include identifying potential partners, conducting market research, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to align proposals with organizational objectives. Strong communication skills, a results-driven mindset, and proficiency in proposal writing are essential. Familiarity with CRM systems and contract negotiation is highly desirable.

Develop and implement a cohesive strategy for leveraging technology to enhance impact and efficiency while unlocking untapped potential across all aspects of our operations.

Integrate communication, knowledge management, and learning regarding program-facing technology within Mercy Corps into our program models and the organization-wide Evidence and Learning Agendas.

Develop strategic external collaborations, with a focus on private sector technology partners (among others), to drive technological advancements and enhance program effectiveness within Mercy Corps.

Cultivate and maintain external partnerships to achieve mutually agreed-upon goals, foster collaborative value creation, and secure critical resources—such as funding, specialized services, expert knowledge, and relevant products.

Drive forward inclusive and locally driven digital transformation through the leadership or facilitation of initiatives that bolster local technology ecosystems, empower local innovators, and guarantee that technology solutions are contextually relevant, accessible, and sustainable.

To gain a comprehensive grasp of Mercy Corps’ programmatic approaches, strategies, and objectives, proactively seek out and cultivate technology partnerships that enhance or expedite progress toward these goals.

Develop and lead the preparation of proposals to secure necessary resources for the aforementioned initiatives.

When proposals involve substantial new technological elements, develop or supervise the creation of programmatic components that are seamlessly integrated, feasible, and groundbreaking.

We offer comprehensive assistance in the execution and deployment of products and programs, ensuring smooth integration and adherence to established protocols. Our team provides strategic guidance throughout the implementation phase, addressing any challenges that may arise to maintain seamless operations. Additionally, we monitor progress closely, offering timely updates and solutions to optimize performance and achieve desired outcomes efficiently.

Oversee T4D-related support requests submitted by program and global/regional program support teams, delivering responsive and customer-focused service at all times.

Oversee the product ownership of technology applications designed for program-facing functions, in close collaboration with program or program support business owner teams. This responsibility may encompass technologies tailored to specific programs or portfolios, as well as enterprise-level solutions required by global program support teams.

Oversee and guarantee the successful execution of activities associated with awards overseen by the T4D team.

Deliver or coordinate the delivery of assistance to the deployment of cutting-edge digital technology solutions within program initiatives or supporting teams.

Mercy Corps must uphold a principled stance that safeguards all program participants by integrating ethical technology and data practices, guided by the principles of Do No Digital Harm. This includes promoting responsible AI utilization, ensuring algorithmic fairness, and adhering to robust 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 cutting-edge solutions for optimizing program data and evidence product utilization.

Collaborate effectively with Information Technology to align technological solutions and partnership development with the organization’s enterprise technology architecture vision, strategic plans, support capabilities, and financial constraints, while identifying opportunities to integrate program-facing and operational systems where feasible.

Collaborate with specialized teams to identify and implement technological solutions that enhance the efficiency, precision, and impact of program designs and methodologies.

Responsible for the strategic leadership and execution of skills development initiatives aimed at enhancing internal talent and expertise in data and technology utilization, including cutting-edge and emerging solutions. Additionally, where feasible, extend these programs to external partners, with a particular emphasis on local collaborators.

Develop and lead a robust and impactful T4D community of practice, ensuring its establishment, growth, and long-term sustainability.

As necessary, provide direction in crafting resources and guidance documents to empower Mercy Corps staff with responsible and efficient digital technology utilization.

Responsible for spearheading the integration of AI and emerging technologies across various program teams, this role involves evaluating their potential, conducting thorough risk assessments, and fostering capacity-building initiatives to ensure effective adoption.

Overseeing a cohesive and productive team demands strategic leadership and collaborative oversight. This role requires the ability to guide, motivate, and develop team members while ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. Responsibilities include assigning tasks, monitoring progress, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a positive work environment. Strong interpersonal skills, conflict resolution abilities, and a commitment to professional growth are essential. Additionally, the position involves performance evaluations, resource allocation, and facilitating seamless communication across departments to achieve collective success.

Supervise the T4D team’s performance and oversee the allocation of financial resources, ensuring that all tasks and activities are aligned with and support the organization’s strategic priorities.

The role involves overseeing the recruitment, selection, and onboarding of new employees, consultants, and interns as needed.

Given T4D’s integrated structure, establish and nurture a dynamic matrixed management approach that empowers team members to collaborate seamlessly on targeted initiatives spanning diverse teams and roles across the organization.

Employ HR best practices by maintaining current job descriptions, individual development plans, and thorough review processes at regularly scheduled intervals.

Deliver comprehensive resources, tools, and information to team members to enhance their performance and support the achievement of their goals.

Maintain accountability for adherence to work plans, portfolio expansion targets, quality standards, and organizational policies.

Ensuring the protection and well-being of individuals remains a fundamental aspect of this role, with a strong emphasis on identifying and mitigating potential risks. The position requires vigilance in monitoring activities, promptly reporting any concerns, and adhering to established safeguarding policies and procedures. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to upholding the highest standards of care, including thorough background checks, regular training, and compliance with legal obligations. This responsibility spans across all interactions and environments where vulnerable individuals may be present, ensuring their safety and dignity at all times.

Actively acquire and apply knowledge of safeguarding principles to enhance T4D’s initiatives, ensuring thorough consideration of safeguarding risks and effective mitigation strategies relevant to their specific focus areas.

Uphold Mercy Corps’ core values by demonstrating respect for the dignity and well-being of all participants as well as fellow team members.

Foster a culture of transparency and open dialogue among team members by encouraging the submission of reports concerning any issues through available reporting channels, such as the Integrity Hotline, and other designated mechanisms.

Demonstrates the ability to guide and inspire individuals or teams by setting a strong example through personal conduct, decision-making, and ethical behavior. Exhibits confidence and decisiveness in challenging situations while fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration. Encourages professional growth among team members by providing constructive feedback and mentorship opportunities. Maintains composure under pressure and adapts strategies to align with organizational goals and changing circumstances.

Consistently exhibit outstanding leadership by fulfilling expectations and remaining composed, particularly in high-pressure circumstances.

We value a commitment to lifelong learning, proactively pursuing varied viewpoints, and incorporating constructive feedback to foster ongoing progress.

Uphold the utmost ethical principles while demonstrating unwavering respect and dignity toward every individual.

Maintain a professional demeanor in every facet of your life, ensuring your behavior consistently upholds Mercy Corps’ reputation and aligns with its mission and objectives.

Success Factors is a cloud-based human capital management (HCM) platform developed by SAP, designed to streamline talent management, employee performance, and workforce analytics. The solution integrates core HR functions, such as payroll, recruitment, onboarding, learning, and succession planning, into a unified system. It leverages AI-driven insights to enhance decision-making, improve employee engagement, and align workforce strategies with organizational goals. Organizations deploy Success Factors to modernize HR operations, ensuring scalability, compliance, and a seamless user experience across global teams.

The Senior Director of Technology for Development (T4D) is responsible for formulating and executing a forward-thinking strategic vision, converting this vision into actionable initiatives, and spearheading the organizational transformations necessary to foster widespread engagement and momentum. This role involves assessing the implementation of established and cutting-edge technology models and solutions while proactively identifying and leveraging emerging trends. The ideal candidate will possess a proven history of driving both technological and organizational innovation. They must operate with a high degree of independence, demonstrating strong leadership in collaborative initiatives and a deep comprehension of Mercy Corps’ overarching strategic plans and goals. The position requires expert-level proficiency in engaging with senior leadership, peer organizations, and key stakeholders across private and public sectors. Additionally, the individual must have extensive experience in managing and empowering team members and nurturing talent within the development sector. The role demands adaptability to diverse cultural and political contexts, along with the ability to travel and operate effectively in challenging environments while maintaining composure under pressure.

Seeking candidates with a robust background in the field, including hands-on expertise and practical exposure to relevant systems, tools, or methodologies. Applicants should possess a minimum of [X] years of professional experience in [specific industry/role], along with a proven track record of success in [key responsibilities or achievements]. Familiarity with [specific technologies, frameworks, or processes] is essential, as is the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. Prior experience in [related tasks or projects] is highly desirable, and candidates must demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning in a dynamic environment.

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a closely related field is strongly preferred.

With a proven track record in senior technology leadership within an international organization, candidates possessing experience in guiding diverse technology teams operating under global delivery frameworks and across geographically distributed workforces will be strongly favored.

With over twelve years of progressive experience in technology and associated business domains, preference will be given to candidates who have demonstrated a track record of assuming escalating levels of responsibility.

Accomplished professionals with a proven ability to cultivate and maintain robust external relationships, alongside a strong history of successful fundraising and sales execution, are encouraged to apply.

Skilled in overseeing performance-based agreements valued at several million dollars, ensuring meticulous adherence to stipulated terms and deliverables.

Proficiency and expertise in undertaking extensive international travel are essential.

International experience with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or non-profits is highly advantageous.

Proven expertise in spearheading organizational change efforts, with a focus on digital technology and data system transformations, particularly in deploying enterprise-wide solutions.

Proven expertise in overseeing and administering service, capital, and operational budgets throughout their development and lifecycle.

Proficiency in English is essential, while working knowledge of French, Spanish, or Arabic is advantageous.

Proven track record of working within low- and middle-income country environments or collaborating with stakeholders in such regions.

Proficiency in the funding priorities and strategies of prominent institutional donors, including the FCDO, USAID, BMZ, and the Gates Foundation, is essential.

Professionals with a track record in implementing AI or GenAI solutions—particularly in resource-constrained or humanitarian settings—are highly desirable.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA

Experience Required

12 years

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