Executive Manager: Digital Services

SUMMARY:

Executive Manager: Digital Services

POSITION INFO:

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide strategic leadership in the development, implementation, and operationalisation of digital solutions aligned to the Digital Transformation Strategy
• Develop, implement, and maintain the ICT Strategy in support of organisational objectives (statutory requirement)
• Engage with international stakeholders (e.g. OA2020, Plan S, cOAlition S) on key matters such as equitable publishing models and research assessment
• Collaborate with South African entities on Open Science and Open Access policy development
• Support continental initiatives such as the African Open Science Platform (AOSP) and related programmes
• Drive the development of a stable and scalable digital ecosystem across the African continent in collaboration with key stakeholders (e.g. TENET, SANReN)
• Oversee and implement departmental business plans through effective delegation and leadership
• Ensure information governance policies reflect best practice and protect information assets
• Execute duties of the Information Officer in compliance with POPIA and PAIA
• Lead the design and delivery of technology infrastructure, systems, and services aligned with organisational needs
• Maintain and align the Records and Information Management Strategy with national legislation (e.g. National Archives Act)
• Drive technology standardisation to ensure efficient and effective ICT operations
• Integrate ICT and information management strategies to support digital transformation
• Manage and strengthen relationships with strategic partners and stakeholders

KEY REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Information and Communication Technology or a related field (NQF Level 9)
• Relevant certifications (advantageous):
  • CISM
  • CISSP
  • CDMP
  • CDPSE

Experience

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in ICT and information management
• At least 5 years in a senior technology management role
• Proven experience in Cybersecurity and Business Continuity Management

Competencies & Skills

• Strategic planning and execution
• Business planning and operational management
• Technology leadership
• Change and risk management
• Policy development and implementation
• Stakeholder engagement and relationship management
• Advanced project and financial management
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills
• Negotiation and customer service excellence
• Advanced computer literacy, including data systems and software

KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

• South African Higher Education System
• National System of Innovation
• ICT governance and regulatory frameworks (e.g. POPIA, GDPR, PFMA, Companies Act, King IV/V)
• Labour legislation and management practices
• Information and knowledge management as a strategic asset
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems
• Design and implementation of integrated digital systems
• Digital transformation and emerging technologies