We are seeking an accomplished Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to lead the organisation's technology strategy, architecture, engineering, and operations.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fintech, payments, or lending, with proven experience building and scaling internal technology teams, transitioning from outsourced to in-house operations, and delivering secure, scalable, and reliable technology solutions.
The successful candidate will oversee the entire technology function, drive innovation, strengthen information security and regulatory compliance, and align technology investments with the organisation's strategic and commercial objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and execute the organisation's technology strategy, roadmap, and architecture in alignment with business objectives.
Lead and scale the internal technology division, overseeing engineering, IT operations, product, data, security, and governance.
Establish engineering standards, architectural frameworks, development processes, and release management procedures.
Drive the transition from outsourced technology services to in-house capabilities through structured knowledge transfer and effective vendor management.
Oversee software development, cloud infrastructure, DevOps, system integration, production support, and disaster recovery.
Ensure reliable system performance, effective incident management, and continuous improvement of technology operations.
Establish and enforce information security policies, access controls, vulnerability management, and technology risk frameworks.
Ensure compliance with applicable data protection laws and relevant financial services regulations.
Manage technology budgets, vendor relationships, and investment decisions while ensuring cost efficiency and business value.
Collaborate with executive leadership, the board, and strategic partners to support business growth and digital transformation.
Recruit, develop, and manage technology leaders while fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous delivery.
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related discipline.
A postgraduate qualification or MBA is an advantage.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in technology, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role such as CTO, VP of Engineering, or Head of Technology.
Proven experience building and scaling internal engineering teams and transitioning technology operations from external vendors to in-house teams.
Strong expertise in software architecture, microservices, API design, cloud infrastructure, system integration, and data platforms.
Hands-on knowledge of Java, Spring Boot, Angular, AWS, PostgreSQL, Docker, CI/CD pipelines, and modern authentication frameworks.
Experience managing DevOps, production environments, system reliability, and disaster recovery.
Strong understanding of information security, data protection, technology governance, and regulatory compliance within a fintech or other regulated environment.
Demonstrated ability to manage technology budgets, lead cross-functional teams, and engage effectively with executive leadership and investors.
Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, stakeholder management, and people leadership skills.
Added Advantage:
Experience in fintech, payments, digital lending, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL), device financing, or embedded finance.
Experience operating across West African markets, particularly Nigeria and Ghana.
Familiarity with payment infrastructure, identity verification, KYC solutions, credit bureau integrations, and device security technologies.
Exposure to workflow automation, business rules engines, and AI-driven technology solutions.
Success Metrics:
Within the first six months, the successful candidate is expected to:
Establish a functional internal technology division with key leadership positions filled.
Complete the transition of critical technology knowledge and operational responsibilities from external vendors to internal teams.
Implement clear architecture standards, engineering processes, and release governance.
Establish a strong information security and data protection framework.
Improve system reliability, delivery efficiency, and internal technical capabilities while significantly reducing dependence on external vendors.