Group Chief Information Officer – Umhlanga needed at Ignition Group

Description

The Chief Information Officer will establish and drive the implementation of an enterprise-wide IT strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives.

The CIO will lead efforts to optimize technology resources, enhance cybersecurity measures, drive innovation, and ensure the effective management of data assets.

 The CIO will guide the development of technology products and solutions that meet the needs and expectations of customers, positioning the organisation as a leader in delivering value-added technology solutions.

Key roles and responsibilities : 

Technology strategy

• Develop and communicate the organization’s technology vision and strategy, aligning it with business goals and objectives.
• Ensure that product architecture supports the strategic priorities of the business. 
• Identify emerging technologies and trends, assessing their potential impact on the organization’s operations and competitiveness.
• Lead the development and implementation of IT governance frameworks, policies, and procedures to ensure effective management and utilization of technology resources.

Information Technology Infrastructure and Operations

• Ensure that IT infrastructure supports the goals and requirements of the business.
• Collaborate with IT teams to leverage technology for improving operational efficiency and achieving organizational objectives.
• Provide oversight to ensure alignment with enterprise standards and objectives across diverse IT operations, while facilitating procurement processes and vendor relationships.
• Collaborate with IT teams to optimize technology systems and processes, enhance customer experience, and drive business growth.
• Monitor technology performance metrics, analyze opportunities for optimization, and collaborate with IT teams to deploy and maintain IT systems effectively, supporting organizational scalability and success.

Data Management and Governance

• Establish and implement data management strategies, policies, and standards to ensure the effective governance, quality, and security of data assets.
• Oversee the design, development, and implementation of data management solutions, including data warehousing, analytics, and business intelligence platforms.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and best practices for data privacy, security, and governance.
• Drive initiatives to leverage data analytics and insights to support decision-making, enhance operational efficiency, and drive business innovation.

Digital Transformation 

• Champion digital transformation initiatives to enhance customer engagement, improve operational efficiency, and drive business innovation.
• Lead efforts to leverage data analytics, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies to gain insights, optimize processes, and create value for the organization.
• Collaborate with business units and stakeholders to identify opportunities for leveraging technology to create new revenue streams and business models.

IT Security, Governance and Compliance

• Establish and maintain IT governance frameworks, policies, and controls to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and best practices.
• Monitor and evaluate IT risks and vulnerabilities, implementing measures to mitigate and address potential threats and vulnerabilities.
• Ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information and data assets, implementing appropriate security measures and protocols.
• Ensure the reliability, availability, and security of IT systems, networks, and infrastructure, implementing appropriate measures to safeguard against cyber threats and data breaches.
• Develop and implement disaster and emergency recovery plans.

Financial management

• Develop, track and control technology operating and capital budgets for purchasing, staffing and operations.
• Oversee the procurement of new technologies and IT tools including evaluation of potential suppliers and contract negotiations.
• Plan and manage costs and improve productivity and ensure return on investment (ROI) on any expenditure.
• Manage and optimise infrastructure assets to satisfy internal financial targets.

Leadership and Team Management  

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the IT team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Develop and mentor IT staff, empowering them to achieve their full potential and contribute to the success of the organization.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to drive IT initiatives and projects, ensuring alignment with business objectives and priorities.

Requirements

Knowledge, skills and attributes:

• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to articulate a compelling vision for technology and drive organizational change.
• Deep knowledge of information technology principles, practices, and trends, with a focus on cybersecurity, cloud computing, and digital transformation.
• Proven track record of strategic planning, project management, and execution of complex IT initiatives.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with executives, business leaders, and technical teams to achieve strategic objectives.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess and mitigate IT risks and challenges. 

Education and training:

• Advanced degree in IT, computer science, management information systems, business administration.
• Relevant certifications, e.g., TOGAF, ITIL advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in an IT operations role or related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in data management, data governance and compliance.
• At least 5 years’ experience in leadership or executive position.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing IT strategies, governance frameworks, and digital transformation initiatives.
• Substantial experience managing outsourced vendor contracts for service delivery and IT operations.
• Experience managing complex IT projects, budgets, and vendor relationships in a large organization.
• Hands-on experience with enterprise systems, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.