Digital Innovation and Technology Manager

About the role

Spark MicroGrants, an NGO working in 800+ villages across six countries in sub-Saharan Africa, is looking for an experienced Digital Innovation and Technology Manager to lead the use of digital tools and emerging technologies in its programs and internally. The role reports to the Senior Program Design Director and works closely with Design, Monitoring and Evaluation, Operations and Programs teams. It suits someone combining technology and project management skills with a background in e-learning and/or social impact.

Key responsibilities

• Identify opportunities to apply emerging technologies, including AI, to improve training, facilitation and implementation, and lead their design, piloting and implementation
• Work with Product and M&E teams to test technology improvements for monitoring and evaluation, acting as technical support or workstream lead
• Manage digital program design workstreams such as the Content Player, ChatBot, IVR hotline and SMS outreach, ensuring quality, regular assessment and iteration
• Set up feedback processes for continuous improvement of digital products and monitor pilots, recommending adaptation, scaling or discontinuation
• Coordinate testing, training, documentation and support for new tools, develop project plans and oversee vendor contracts
• Translate program needs into technical requirements and advise on adapting materials for new digital tools
• Lead the Working Group on AI, assess AI tools' relevance and risks, build risk assessment frameworks and raise awareness through training
• Monitor global best practices, build internal buy-in and represent Spark's digital innovation work to government and NGO partners

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, software engineering, data science or machine learning
• At least 5 years of professional experience, including managing technology or digital innovation projects, e-learning, learning and development or technology-enabled international development
• Experience managing complex, cross-functional projects from concept or pilot through launch
• Interest in emerging technologies and their practical applications in social impact or development

Required skills

• Expert knowledge of data integration techniques and tools, including ETL processes
• Proficiency in scripting languages such as Python and PowerShell
• Experience developing or managing digital products and working with developers
• Excellent written and verbal communication, able to bridge technical and non-technical audiences