IT and Digital Systems Lead

About StrongMinds Zambia

StrongMinds Zambia (SMZ) is a non-governmental organisation providing scalable, community- and school-based solutions to close the mental health treatment gap in Zambia. Founded in 2019, we provide free, community-based group talk therapy (IPT-G) to treat depression to everyone that needs it most. Our model uses trained local health workers to deliver culturally relevant care through partnerships with the Government of Zambia, significantly reducing symptoms and improving lives. After proving the feasibility, effectiveness, and affordability of our treatment model, SMZ is focused on rapid and impactful scaling of these free, existing and tested community-based mental health solutions that have already served over half a million Zambians through effective and mutually beneficial government partnerships.

StrongMinds aims to provide mental health treatment to 420,000  Zambians in 2026 Exclusively through the Government of Zambia and reach millions more in the years ahead.

Job Title 

IT and Digital Systems Lead (IT&DSL)

Line Manager / Supervisor: Digital Transformation Director (DTD) 

Duty Station: Lusaka, Zambia. (with occasional travel)

Job Purpose/Position Summary

The IT and Digital Systems Lead is a high-energy, mission-driven professional who champions the strategic growth of StrongMinds Zambia’s (SMZ) technology landscape. S/he ensures that SMZ’s IT systems and processes are not just functional and secure, but are robust catalysts for daily operations and organizational scale. This role is responsible for adapting and implementing the global Information Technology framework to meet SMZ’s unique local requirements with precision and integrity.

S/he works seamlessly with the global IT team and SMZ leadership across Programs, Research, Finance, HR, and M&E to foster technology use that aligns with organizational goals. S/he serves as the first line of technical support, ensuring that national hardware and software needs are met with urgency while representing SMZ’s specific field requirements to the global stage.

A key priority for this role is leading local digital transformation initiatives, specifically serving as a primary architect for SMZ’s transition during the overhaul of the global data management system. Pushing the boundaries of mental health implementation, s/he takes a lead in managing a redesign of active field data collection tools, pioneering AI prototypes, and leading integrations with government infrastructure. Through rigorous field testing and support for advanced analytics, the Manager ensures that data remains at the core of SMZ’s effort to solve problems in new and innovative ways.

While we have defined high technical standards, we recognize that exceptional talent often follows non-traditional paths. We strongly encourage applications from high-potential candidates who may not meet every formal qualification but possess a proven track record of self-directed upskilling and a relentless passion for learning. If you are a rapid learner with a 'can-do' attitude toward solving complex problems, we want to hear from you.

Area of Responsibility

1. IT Governance, Assets & Compliance

• Oversee IT asset lifecycle (procurement to disposal); ensure licensing compliance; manage G-suit/user permissions; enforce security protocols and audit logs.
  

2. Network Infrastructure & Maintenance

• Lead maintenance and upgrades of firewalls, network hardware, and eventual servers; monitor performance for high availability; manage provisioning for laptops/tablets.
  

3. Data Security & Business Continuity

• Implement and rigorously test automated backup/recovery procedures; maintain incident logs; develop disaster recovery protocols for SMZ systems.
  

4. IT Operations & Technical Support

• Lead high-level troubleshooting for hardware and software; oversee the SMZ incident log; provide monthly reporting on system health and support trends.
  

5. Digital Transformation & Systems

• Map local workflows to inform global system overhaul; lead local implementation of data management migrations; ensure field realities are integrated into design.
  

6. Field Data Systems & Innovation

• Oversee maintenance and update cycles for field tools (Kobo, CommCare); support testing of AI prototypes and digital data capture innovations.
  

7. Data Analytics & Reporting

• Support advanced data extraction and analytics for M&E and Programs; automate dashboards to facilitate data-driven leadership decisions.
  

Educational Qualifications

• BSc/BA in Computer Science/Information Technology/Software Engineering or relevant field.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in the IT sector, with a proven track record in software engineering, network infrastructure, or the strategic oversight of complex data systems.
• Professional Certifications desirable, e.g. PMP/PRINCE2, ITIL, Google Workspace Administration, or similar.

Job-related experience, knowledge and Behaviors

• Infrastructure, security, and digital asset management: Comprehensive knowledge of network security, protocols, and industry best practices to ensure a "stable and secure" organizational environment.
• Enterprise administration: Advanced expertise in Google Workspace (GSuite) administration and maintaining related platforms such as Slack, HRIS, payroll platforms, etc.
• Inclusive User Support: Extensive experience providing technical assistance across a wide variety of users, from frontline staff to executive leadership.
• Data collection tools: Experience with configuration and management of field data collection platforms, specifically KoboToolbox and CommCare, including advanced logic and deployment.
• Data architecture: Proficiency in SQL for relational database management, seamless data migration, and complex querying to support global system overhauls and BI needs.
• Technical Innovation: Working knowledge of Python to drive data automation, manage API integrations, and support the development and testing of AI prototypes.
• Methodology & Design: Deep understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and Agile methodologies, with experience documenting technical requirements and physical designs.
• Strategic Communication: Impeccable, proactive communication skills tailored for a remote-first, global organization; able to translate complex tech for diverse stakeholders.
• Added Advantage: Familiarity with government digital health systems.

Application Details

• Application Deadline: 28 April 2026 at 08:00am (Zambian Time)

Safeguarding & Equal Opportunity

• Applicants will be required to undergo Police Clearance and Reference Checks. Academic qualifications must be ZAQA certified.
• StrongMinds Zambia is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, disability, ethnicity, or background, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.