Global IT Director

Role Description The Global IT Director is a part-time, hybrid role based in Sharjah, with flexibility for some work-from-home arrangements. This role is responsible for overseeing the overall IT strategy and architecture that supports OpenInfra User Group Kenya’s global community activities, events, and online collaboration platforms. Day-to-day tasks include managing IT operations, guiding the implementation and maintenance of infrastructure and collaboration tools, and ensuring reliable connectivity and secure access for members and partners. The Global IT Director will establish and refine IT policies, monitor network security and data protection practices, and coordinate with volunteers and external vendors to ensure systems are robust, scalable, and aligned with open source principles. The role also includes evaluating new technologies, contributing to open infrastructure initiatives, mentoring community members on IT best practices, and providing leadership on incident response and continuity planning.QualificationsCandidates should possess strong skills in IT Management and IT Operations, with experience overseeing distributed or community-focused technology environments.Candidates should possess solid knowledge of Information Technology principles, infrastructure design, and support of cloud or open source platforms.Candidates should possess expertise in Network Security, including access control, data protection, and security monitoring for online communities.Candidates should possess capabilities in IT Strategy, including roadmap development, technology evaluation, and alignment of IT initiatives with organizational goals.Demonstrated experience leading IT teams or volunteer technical groups in a hybrid or remote setting.Familiarity with open source cloud and infrastructure technologies (e.g., OpenStack, Kubernetes, containers, CI/CD tools) is highly beneficial.Strong communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively across cultures and time zones.Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.Experience in community, non-profit, or user group environments and a genuine interest in open infrastructure are considered an asset.