Assistant Director, ICT, Information Systems Security & Data Protection

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) is seeking a highly skilled Assistant Director, ICT, Information Systems Security & Data Protection to lead the development and implementation of enterprise-wide information security strategies. This role ensures the protection of organizational systems, networks, and data while overseeing business continuity, disaster recovery, and compliance with relevant ICT and data protection regulations.

Key Job Information

• Position: Assistant Director, ICT, Information Systems Security & Data Protection
• Reference Number: HELB/009 – Grade 4
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Contract (up to three years, renewable subject to performance)
• Experience Level: Senior Management

About Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)

The Higher Education Loans Board is a government institution dedicated to financing higher education and training for Kenyan students. HELB leverages technology to enhance service delivery, protect sensitive data, and improve operational efficiency, ensuring equitable access to education across Kenya.

Professionals exploring careers at HELB join an organization committed to innovation, governance, and data-driven decision-making. The institution provides a platform for ICT leaders to implement advanced information systems, secure organizational assets, and influence national-level ICT practices.

Assistant Director, ICT, Information Systems Security & Data Protection Job Description

The Assistant Director, ICT, Information Systems Security & Data Protection is responsible for implementing a comprehensive ICT strategy that safeguards the organization’s communications, networks, and systems from internal and external threats. This position oversees the design, execution, and monitoring of security protocols, disaster recovery plans, and data protection frameworks, making it a critical job opportunity at HELB for senior ICT professionals seeking leadership in information security and governance.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement ICT strategies ensuring alignment with long- and short-term organizational objectives.
• Develop, monitor, and enforce ICT policies, procedures, and best practices across the organization.
• Supervise network infrastructure administration, case management systems, and desktop environment upgrades.
• Ensure compliance with all ICT-related regulations, policies, and quality standards.
• Manage divisional budgets and procurement plans for ICT operations.
• Implement ICT disaster management strategies, including Business Continuity Plan (BCP) and Disaster Recovery Site (DRS) frameworks.
• Develop and implement ICT risk management frameworks to safeguard information integrity and confidentiality.
• Prepare ICT training programs and materials in collaboration with Human Resource Management and relevant authorities.
• Deploy ICT security infrastructure responsive to organizational needs and industry best practices.
• Ensure compliance with data protection laws in handling personal and organizational data.
• Prepare quarterly and annual divisional reports to guide management decision-making.
• Supervise performance management within the division, promoting accountability and efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of twelve years relevant work experience, including three years as Principal Information Communication Technology Officer or equivalent.
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business IT, Software Engineering, ICT Project Management, Computer Engineering, or equivalent.
• Master’s degree in IT, Computer Science, Business IT, Software Engineering, Project Management, Data Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• Leadership course lasting not less than four weeks from a recognized institution.
• Professional certifications in at least two of the following: CISA, CISM, CRISM, CEH, CISSP, MCSE, MCITP, CCNA, Project Management, SSCP, CompTIA Security+, OSCP, VOIP.
• Membership in relevant professional bodies in good standing where applicable.
• Valid practicing certificate where applicable.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in ERP solutions configuration, programming, database querying, data analytics, and business intelligence.
• Knowledge of ICT standards such as ITIL, COBIT, and familiarity with Unix/Linux/Windows operating systems.
• Expertise in information and network security, risk management, and reporting.
• Experience with contact center technologies and implementing security protocols for service delivery.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and team leadership skills with a focus on innovation and disruptive technologies.

Benefits and Compensation

This role offers a competitive public sector remuneration package, opportunities for professional development, and exposure to enterprise-level ICT leadership. Professionals seeking job opportunities today at HELB will gain hands-on experience in advanced ICT management, information security, and data governance while contributing to national educational services.

How to Apply for Assistant Director, ICT, Information Systems Security & Data Protection Job Opportunity at HELB

Qualified candidates interested in the latest jobs at HELB are encouraged to apply for this senior ICT role today. Applications should include a detailed job application letter, curriculum vitae, certified copies of academic and professional certificates, and relevant testimonials quoting the job title and reference number.

Soft copy applications must be submitted via email to [email protected]. Shortlisted candidates will be required to present valid Chapter Six compliance documentation during the recruitment process.

HELB is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, youth, marginalized communities, and persons with disabilities. This vacancy represents a premier ICT and data protection opportunity in Nairobi within a mission-driven public sector institution.