Deputy Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Code for Africa (CfA)

About the Role:

• The successful candidate will join TechLab, CfA’s civic technology lab. As the backbone of the largest network of civic technology and data journalism labs, TechLab is dedicated to delivering innovative, affordable, open-source solutions that provide unfettered access to actionable information.
• The TechLab embraces a forward-thinking approach to technology. We strategically leverage the power of Python and JavaScript to build scalable architectures, rely on PostgreSQL for robust data management, and integrate Generative AI and LLMs as copilots in our programming and data processing workflows. Our commitment to industry best practices in agile software development and DevSecOps ensures we deliver high-quality, adaptable solutions.
• As the Deputy CTO, you’ll be responsible for bridging the technical and product sides of the organisation, ensuring that the digital infrastructure built aligns with our user needs and strategic goals. Reporting directly to the CTO, you will be tasked with setting and maintaining standards for software development practices, including quality assurance, security, and compliance across all projects and products.

Some of the products that you may work with us on include: 

• Our machine learning and natural language processing platforms (such as CivicSignal and connectedAFRICA),
• Our data visualisation platforms (such as PesaYetu, and HURUmap),
• Our bots and widgets (such as BiscuitIndex and TaxClock), and
• Our online protection tools such as (such as afriLEAKS, and FeedShield)
• Responsibilities: Your daily tasks will include:
• Develop the vision and roadmap to align with  CfA’s goals and contracts
• Build and lead a high-performing team, conducting daily and weekly stand-up meetings or check-ins with the technology team to review progress, address any roadblocks, and ensure alignment with project goals
• Monitor the progress of ongoing technology projects, ensuring they are on track, within budget, and meeting quality standards. Address any issues that arise promptly.
• Provide updates to clients on the status of their projects, address any technical concerns, and gather feedback to ensure their needs are being met.
• Act as a point of escalation for complex client issues, ensuring timely and effective resolution.
• Assess and integrate new technologies or methodologies that can enhance CfA’s capabilities and competitive edge.
• Ensure that technology solutions comply with relevant regulations, standards, and security requirements.
• Oversee the documentation of technical processes, decisions, and best practices to ensure knowledge is captured and accessible.
• Communicate the technology vision, strategic goals, and updates to internal teams to ensure alignment and engagement.
• Represent CfA in external forums, conferences, or industry events and network with other technology leaders.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams across CfA, including data, product, and design teams, to ensure seamless integration of technical and product strategies.

Required: minimum requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field,
• 5+ years of software development experience, deep expertise in Python, JavaScript, and other relevant languages,
• 2+ years’ experience leading design or architecture (design patterns, reliability and scaling) of new and existing systems,
• 2+ years’ experience managing and building high-performing technology teams,
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with product managers, designers, and other stakeholders to define software features and align technical solutions with product strategy,
• Demonstrated ability to manage programs and projects across cross-functional teams, building processes and coordinating release schedules,
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks, allocate resources, and meet deadlines,
• Experience or familiarity with emerging technologies and industry trends, enabling innovation and keeping the organisation at the forefront of technological advancements,
• Willingness to accept and provide constructive feedback, fostering a collaborative team environment,
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present complex technical information clearly and concisely.

Preferred: candidates who can demonstrate the following will have an advantage:

• 2+ years of experience managing technical managers or leaders,
• Knowledge of engineering practices and patterns for the full software/hardware/networks development life cycle, including coding standards, code reviews, source control management, build processes, testing, and live site operations,
• Experience with civic tech tools and platforms, particularly election and media monitoring, transparency and accountability, or data platforms.
• Experience working with government agencies, civil society organisations (CSOs) or community-based organisations (CBOs) in Africa.
• Knowledge of grant management processes and experience in working with international donors is a plus.
• Language and Location Requirements:
• Location: This position offers full remote flexibility, so we welcome applications from talented leaders throughout Africa.
• Languages: English
• Preferred but not required: Arabic, French or any other major language spoken in Africa.