Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Job title: Chief Technology Officer (Pretoria)

Job description: The Chief Technology Officer will be responsible for leading the company’s technology and strategy, ensuring that our technology infrastructure aligns with our business objectives. The CTO will oversee all technical aspects of the company, including software development, IT operations, cybersecurity, and innovation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Technology Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive technology roadmap that aligns with the company’s objectives and supports growth and innovation
• Lead the monetising of technological assets and capabilities to complement the business growth strategies
• Drive digital transformation initiatives to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance customer experience
• Lead the development of new business models that future proof the business by creating sustainable solutions
• Identify and implement emerging technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, blockchain) to maintain a competitive edge in the insurance technology sector
• The ability and know-how of both IT and business to be able to think strategically and visionary about the role and contribution of IT to the business as well as the ability to convert concept and vision into action and implementation
• Understanding of the implications and mechanics of embedding technology and digital change in organizations to deliver new mindsets and ways of working

2. Technical Operations & Infrastructure

• Oversee the design, development, and deployment of scalable, secure, and reliable technology platforms for policy issuance, claims management, and customer service
• Ensure seamless integration with partner APIs, insurer systems, and other third-party services
• Maintain robust IT infrastructure and make sound architecture decisions thereby ensuring high availability, performance and scalability of the IT systems and products

3. Risk, Governance,Cybersecurity &Compliance

• Ensure that the organisation adheres with all IT Group standards as well as proactively manages the associated risks
• Represent the organisation in all IT Risk and Governance committees
• Implement and maintain cybersecurity measures to protect company and client data, complying with industry standards and regulations
• Ensure adherence to relevant laws and regulations, including data protection and privacy standards Conduct regular risk assessments and audits to identify and mitigate potential security threats

4. Team Leadership & Development

• Lead and mentor the technology team, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, resilience and excellence
• Recruit and retain top technical talent to build a high-performing team
• Set clear goals and expectations, providing regular feedback and performance evaluations

5. Stakeholder Collaboration

• Work closely with other executive leaders to align technology initiatives with business strategies and customer needs
• Manage relationships with technology vendors and service providers to ensure quality and cost- effectiveness
• Engage with clients to understand their needs and ensure technology solutions meet or exceed expectations
• Maintain high levels of user experience, system reliability and exceptional adherence to service level agreements with both internal and external customers that we serve

6. Financial Management

• Develop and manage the technology budget, ensuring optimal allocation of resources
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs through efficient use of technology and process improvements
• Evaluate and recommend technology investments that align with business goals and deliver ROI

Qualifications and Experience

• Matric, Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or an equivalent qualification is required: a Master’s Degree or MBA is preferred
• Minimum of 10 years in technology leadership roles, with at least 5 years as a CTO or equivalent position in the insurance or financial services industry.
• Extensive short term industry experience is advantageous for this position
• Strong knowledge of software development, IT infrastructure, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Experience working with third-party integrations
• Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing technology teams Management of resources (Financial and Human)
• Demonstrated experience in aligning technology strategies with business objectives
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Desired Attributes

• Innovative Mindset: A forward-thinking approach to technology and its application in the insurance industry
• Commercial and Entrepreneurial outlook: A strong financial focus which continuously creates links between technology and business growth
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills and the ability to address complex challenges effectively.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Collaboration: A team player who works well with cross-functional teams and external partners.

Key performance indicators

• Technology Project Delivery: Timely and successful delivery of technology projects aligned with business goals.
• System Uptime: Maintain high availability and reliability of technology systems.
• Security Metrics: Minimize security incidents and ensure compliance with data protection regulations.
• Budget Adherence: Manage technology budgets effectively, achieving cost savings where possible.
• Team Performance: Build and maintain a high-performing technology team with low turnover rates