Our client, Health Research Operations Kenya Limited (HROKL), the operating entity for the KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, a world class health research Programme based in Kenya, conducting multi-disciplinary research that spans infectious diseases, vaccines, maternal child and neonatal health, health systems, and emerging health threats. The Programme’s research leverages an integrated platform that includes bioscience laboratories, a clinical trials facility and clinical team, the clinical information network, the Kilifi demographic and health surveillance site, and robust community engagement, generating evidence that informs local and global health policy.

HROKL is seeking to hire a highly skilled and strategic Head of Information Technology to provide strategic leadership and oversight of all IT functions across the organization.

JOB PURPOSE:

This individual will be responsible for providing strategic leadership, governance, and oversight of all Information Technology functions to support the HROK Programme’s mandate and strategic objectives. They will lead the development and implementation of the IT strategy, ensure reliable and secure IT operations, oversee digital transformation initiatives, and drive innovation, compliance, and performance across infrastructure, software development, service delivery, and IT projects. The position will be accountable for ensuring that IT systems, services, and resources effectively enable institutional efficiency, data security, and business continuity.

KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide strategic leadership, direction, and oversight to the IT Department to ensure effective delivery of its mandate and alignment with HROK’s strategic objectives.
• Develop, implement, and periodically review IT strategic and operational plans, frameworks, policies, and standards to ensure alignment with institutional goals and best practice.
• Oversee end-to-end IT operations, including infrastructure, software development, service desk, cybersecurity, data management, and user support, ensuring service reliability, performance, and continuous improvement.
• Lead IT governance, security, and compliance initiatives, including IT risk management, data protection compliance, regulatory adherence, and implementation of appropriate security controls and business continuity measures.
• Provide oversight and strategic direction for all IT projects and digital transformation initiatives to ensure timely delivery, optimal resource utilization, and achievement of intended outcomes.
• Lead departmental budgeting, procurement planning, and financial management processes, ensuring efficient and accountable utilization of approved resources.
• Prepare and present periodic and ad hoc IT performance, risk, and management reports to the Chief Operating Officer and senior management.
• Drive innovation by identifying and recommending emerging technologies, system enhancements, and process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and institutional effectiveness.
• Provide high-level technical advisory support to management and stakeholders on IT strategy, systems architecture, risk, and policy matters.
• Lead talent management and capacity building within the IT function by overseeing staff performance, succession planning, continuous professional development, and user training initiatives.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets and procurement plans.
• Oversee cost-effective utilization of IT resources and investments.

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND CAREER EXPERIENCE:

• A Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field from a recognized university.
• A Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field from a recognized university.
• Relevant professional certifications (e.g., IT governance, AI, cybersecurity, project management) and membership in professional bodies where applicable.
• Minimum of 10 years of overall IT experience, with at least five 5 years at a senior management level in a reputable organization.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex, multidisciplinary IT projects and enterprise systems.
• Certification in Leadership and/or Management from a recognized institution.

Core Competencies:

• Demonstrated high levels of confidentiality and integrity.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to build strong and diverse effective teams, delegation and team motivation.
• Excellent analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Strong Management, leadership and decision-making skills.
• Able to work in multi-cultural communities

All applicants are advised to adhere to the application guidelines for consideration. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

NB: Flexi Personnel does not charge candidates for job placement.