IT and Digital Systems Lead

The IT and Digital Systems Lead is a high-energy, mission-driven professional who champions the strategic growth of StrongMinds Zambia's (SMZ) technology landscape. S/he ensures that SMZ's IT systems and processes are not just functional and secure, but that staff and field users are well-supported and empowered to leverage technology to deliver their best work at scale. This role is responsible for adapting and implementing the global Information Technology framework to meet SMZ's unique local requirements with precision and integrity, serving as the first Zambia-based representative on a small, close-knit global IT team. S/he works seamlessly with the global IT team and SMZ leadership across Programs, Research, Finance, HR, and M&E to foster technology use that aligns with organizational goals. S/he serves as the first line of technical support and is an independent, switched-on operator who runs SMZ's office infrastructure and field user networks with minimal hand-holding, building and improving systems where s/he sees opportunity. S/he is an exemplary user support lead for every type of user, from frontline field staff to executive leadership, ensuring that national hardware and software needs are met with urgency while representing SMZ's specific field requirements to the global stage. S/he will manage additional junior tech support resources as the team continues to grow. Beyond day-to-day operations, this role also contributes to SMZ's broader digital transformation, supporting the development and implementation of a new global data management system, helping to test and refine field data collection tools, designing dashboards and supporting strategic data use, and experimenting with AI integrations. The Lead will also take a significant role in strategizing and executing integrations with government HMIS and eCHIS systems. This role reports to the Digital Transformation Director.

Responsibilities

Own the full IT asset lifecycle end-to-end, from procurement to disposal, with minimal hand-holding. Ensure licensing compliance; manage G Suite/user permissions; enforce security protocols and audit logs.; Lead maintenance and upgrades of firewalls, network infrastructure, and connectivity strategy spanning main office and field sites; monitor performance for high availability; manage provisioning for laptops/tablets.; Implement and rigorously test automated backup/recovery procedures for program data and SaaS stack; maintain incident logs; develop disaster recovery protocols for SMZ systems. Will act as chief ODPC data protection officer.; Serve as the first line of technical support for every kind of user, from frontline field staff to executive leadership. Lead high-level troubleshooting; oversee the SMZ incident log; provide monthly reporting on system health and support trends.; Map local workflows to inform global system overhaul; lead local implementation of data management migrations; ensure Zambian field realities are integrated into design.; Oversee maintenance and update cycles for field tools (Kobo, CommCare); support testing of AI prototypes and digital data capture innovations; strengthen field user networks nationwide.; Support advanced data extraction and analytics for M&E and Programs; automate dashboards to facilitate data-driven leadership decisions.

Requirements

5+ years of progressive experience in the IT sector, with a proven track record in software engineering, network infrastructure, or the strategic oversight of complex data systems.; Infrastructure, security, and digital asset management: Comprehensive knowledge of network security, protocols, and industry best practices to ensure a 'stable and secure' organizational environment.; Enterprise administration: Advanced expertise in Google Workspace (G Suite) administration and maintaining related platforms such as Slack, HRIS, payroll platforms, etc.; Inclusive User Support: Extensive experience providing technical assistance across a wide variety of users, from frontline staff to executive leadership.; Strategic Communication: Impeccable, proactive communication skills tailored for a remote-first, global organization; able to translate complex tech for diverse stakeholders.

Nice to have

BSc/BA in Computer Science/Information Technology/Software Engineering or relevant field.; Professional Certifications desirable, e.g., PMP/PRINCE2, ITIL, Google Workspace Administration, or similar.; Data architecture: Proficiency in SQL for relational database management, seamless data migration, and complex querying to support global system overhauls and BI needs.; Technical Innovation: Working knowledge of Python to drive data automation, manage API integrations, and support the development and testing of AI prototypes.; Familiarity with government digital health systems.; Experience with configuration and management of field data collection platforms, specifically KoboToolbox and CommCare.; Methodology & Design: Deep understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and Agile methodologies, with experience documenting technical requirements and physical designs.