Head of Technology (IT/OT Systems) at PowerGen Renewable Energy

PowerGen was founded in 2011 to address the challenges of renewable energy and energy access in Africa. Today, we have built more micro-grids in Africa than any other company and serve thousands of customers across seven countries with clean, renewable energy. Learn more about our story, what we do, and the future we believe in.

Purpose / Overview

The Head of Technology will play a pivotal role in driving technological advancement and operational efficiency. This senior position requires a strategic thinker with a strong technical background to lead the integration of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems, ensuring seamless data flow, robust security, and optimized performance across our operations. The role will oversee the integration and consolidation of data from various streams, ensuring a single source of truth with high data quality and availability. This role will also manage the company's business systems and the in-house developed software "Amini," which aggregates mini-grid customer payments  across different platforms..

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership:
   1.  Develop and execute the IT/OT strategy in alignment with the company's goals and objectives.
   2. Lead the consolidation of data from CRM, OEM SCADA, meter vendors, ERP systems, Jubi, and other sources into a single source of truth.
2.  IT/OT Strategy Development and Implementation:
   1. Define and execute a comprehensive IT/OT strategy aligned with the company's business objectives.
   2. Develop the technology roadmap, identify technology investments, and ensure alignment with industry best practices
3.  Data Integration and Management:
   1. Oversee the consolidation of data from diverse sources into a unified data warehouse.
   2. Implement robust data quality checks and governance processes to ensure data accuracy and availability
4.  Systems Architecture and Design:
   1. Lead the design and implementation of IT and OT system architectures, including network infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data warehouse
5. Technology Infrastructure Management:
   1. Manage and optimize the company's IT and OT infrastructure, including hardware, software, metering, SCADA and network systems.
   2. Ensure the availability and reliability of systems to support business operation
6. Cybersecurity and Compliance:
   1. Develop and implement a robust cybersecurity strategy to protect the company's IT and OT systems from cyber threats.
   2. Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations for IT and OT
7. Software Development and Maintenance:
   1. Oversee the development, maintenance, and support of the company's in-house software "Amini ".
   2. Ensure alignment with business requirements and efficient operations
8. Project Management:
   1. Plan, execute, and monitor IT/OT projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
   2. Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful project implementation and stakeholder satisfaction.
   3. Identify and mitigate risks associated with IT/OT projects.
9. Team Leadership and Development
   1. Lead, mentor, and develop a team of IT and OT professionals, creating a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
   2. Set performance goals, conduct regular performance reviews, and hold team accountable

Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
2. Minimum of 5 years of experience in the management of IT/OT systems and/or software projects
3. Prior experience with  IT and OT systems, including SCADA, metering systems, ERP systems, and CRM platforms.
4. Proven experience in data consolidation, data quality management, and data governance.
5. Hands-on experience in resolving metering systems/SCADA/ software-related issues.
6. Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
7. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
8. Experience in the renewable energy sector is a plus

Method of Application