Near East Foundation

Job Announcement

Title:  IT Manager 

Location: Amman

Reporting to:  Executive Director, Amman Jordan

Expected starting date:  Nov 1^St 2024

“The Near East Foundation (NEF) Regional/Siraj Financial Services (SFS) are recruiting a IT Manager to be based in Amman, Jordan. This position will initially be under an NEF contract, seconded to SFS. Once SFS’s registration in Jordan is finalized, the candidate will transition to an SFS contract”. For over 100 years, the Near East Foundation has worked to build more sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive communities in the Middle East, Caucasus, and Africa through education, governance, and economic development initiatives. Working through a network of country offices and local partners, NEF has operations in ten countries: Armenia, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Mali, Morocco, Palestine, Sudan, South Sudan, and Syria. Its programs are organized around three themes: Inclusive Economic Development, Climate-resilient Development, and Stabilization and Peacebuilding.

SFS Background

Siraj Financial Services (SFS), registered in Belgium with a regional office in Amman, is committed to driving sustainable economic growth in Northern Syria by empowering local entrepreneurs. Building on NEF's successful revolving credit fund pilot, which provided small loans to entrepreneurs in Ar-Raqqa, Deir Ez-Zor, and Al-Hasakeh, SFS is advancing this initiative by commercializing the model and expanding its reach. Targeting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), we offer micro-loans and development loans alongside non-financial services such as business development training, coaching, and market facilitation. Our focus is on supporting women, youth, and vulnerable groups, prioritizing high-value sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, services, and trade to ensure their active participation in the region's economic development. 

Position Description

The IT Manager at SFS is responsible for the strategic oversight and management of the technology infrastructure, systems, and services that underpin the organization’s operations. This role is pivotal in ensuring the reliability, security, and scalability of IT resources, while driving the adoption of technology solutions that enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness. The IT Manager plays a crucial role in aligning the IT infrastructure with the institution's mission and goals, with a focus on cybersecurity and financial technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise the processing and management of the company's computer network to ensure continuous efficiency and effectiveness.
• Oversee the maintenance of computer hardware and software to ensure their ongoing functionality and validity.
• Manage and optimize the ERP solution for SFS, ensuring it meets organizational needs and integrates effectively with other systems.
• Implement and maintain robust cybersecurity measures to protect organizational data and IT infrastructure from threats and vulnerabilities.
• Oversee the implementation and integration of financial technology solutions to enhance financial operations and services.
• Design and document information systems capable of tracking loans and their financial impacts.
• Supervise the modernization of information systems as needed to ensure they meet the company's evolving requirements.
• Prepare reports on the management of information systems as requested by the Executive Director.
• Coordinate with the Director of Administrative Affairs to design tools and procedures for monitoring and evaluating company activities.
• Develop the annual plan and estimated budget for the Information Systems Department.
• Follow up on and propose amendments to modify and improve computer systems.
• Ensure user permissions align with company policies and maintain oversight to prevent unauthorized access.
• Perform any other tasks as assigned, provided they do not conflict with the core responsibilities of the role.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field. A master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., ITIL, PMP, CISSP) is an advantage.
• At least 7-10 years of experience working in the field of computers and networks in addition to Financial Institutions, Microfinance and financial technology institutions.
• Proven experience in IT management, with a focus on cybersecurity, financial technology, and ERP solutions, ideally within a microfinance or financial services environment.
• Strong understanding of IT infrastructure, systems management, and data security practices.
• Experience managing ERP systems and financial technology solutions.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple IT resources and projects effectively.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to align IT infrastructure with organizational goals and objectives.
• Fluency in spoken/ written Arabic and English required.

NEF will accept a rolling application until the position is filled. Review of application will begin on September 22, 2024. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

To apply:

Please apply by submitting the following documents to https://neareast.bamboohr.com/careers/399?source=aWQ9MTk%3D :

• Cover letter outlining relevant experience and skills based on the requirements outlined above 
• Curriculum Vitae
• List of three references (including one from current, or most recent, employer)

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Near East Foundation by visiting the NEF website at www.neareast.org.

The Near East Foundation promotes Equal Employment Opportunities for all applicants seeking employment and NEF employees.

Pre-employment Checks

Any employment with the Near East Foundation will be subject to the following checks prior to start date:

• A satisfactory Restricted Party Screening.
• Receipt of satisfactory references.
• Workplace Verification Check