Senior Specialist, Technology Innovation and Data Management

Job purpose

The Senior Specialist, Technology Innovation and Data Management, plays a strategic role in leading the development, integration, and management of digital systems that support Mafisa’s growth and impact. This position ensures Mafisa’s programs are data-driven, tech-enabled, and operationally efficient, with systems tailored for rural and low-connectivity environments. The role also supports organisational learning, donor reporting, and carbon credit verification by ensuring data quality and technology alignment with strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities 

Technology and Systems Management

• Lead the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of digital tools and platforms to support data collection, program delivery and organizational operations.
• Oversee technology projects, including custom application development, forms for data collection etc. ensuring solutions are scalable, user-friendly, and adapted for use in rural settings.
• Manage Mafisa’s cloud and digital environments (e.g. Microsoft 365, Azure), ensuring data security, structured access, and reliable performance.
• Champion the adoption of emerging technologies to enhance program efficiency and field operations.

Data Management and Reporting

• Design and manage data collection and reporting systems that support field operations, impact tracking, and donor compliance.
• Create reports and develop dashboards to monitor program performance and progress toward strategic objectives.
• Ensure that accurate and timely data is available for internal decision-making and external reporting.
• Contribute to the use of innovative technologies—such as RFID livestock tagging, satellite, GPS tracking etc.—to support program efficiency.
• Stay abreast of technological advancements and assess their relevance for Mafisa’s evolving needs.

Strategic and Organisational Development

•  Work closely with program teams to understand their data and technology needs and build tailored solutions that improve outcomes.
• Facilitate training and ongoing support for field and admin teams.
• Contribute to organisational strategy and planning processes, ensuring tech and data systems align with long-term goals.
• Prepare internal and external reports for the board, partners, and funders as needed.

Requirements and Qualifications
Education

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, data science, or a related field. A master’s degree is an added advantage.

Experience and competencies

• Minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience in technology or data systems implementation and management.
• Proven experience leading tech-enabled projects in development or nonprofit settings, preferably in rural contexts.
• Experience with business intelligence software such as Tableau, Power BI.
• High competency in Excel, SQL (Structured Query Language) and setting up data collection tools such as MagPi, ODK etc.
• Experience in GIS and mapping tools is an added advantage, particularly ArcGIS and QGIS.
• Demonstrated ability to train and support users with varying levels of digital literacy.
• Strong analytical, project management, and communication skills.

Reporting

•  The Senior Specialist, Technology Innovation and Data Management reports to the Chief Executive.
• The Senior Specialist, Technology Innovation and Data Management, supervises the data and reporting team.