Chief Technology Officer

About Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX)

ESX is Ethiopias first, and only organized securities exchange. ESX is being established as a public private partnership in line with Article 31 of the Capital Market Proclamation (No.1248/2021).

ESX operates the business of a securities exchange, functions as a Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO), and serves as the central market organizer providing an integrated product suite covering the equities, fixed income, and money market segments of the capital markets.

As the pioneer securities exchange, ESX aims to play a critical role in the development and growth of the Ethiopian capital markets. ESXs core objective is to facilitate access to capital and effective capital allocation in a manner that supports Ethiopias economic growth. By developing a well-regulated and efficient capital market ecosystem, ESX will enable mobilization of financial resources for both public and private sector institutions while providing investors a platform to invest in a regulated and efficient environment.

Role Overview

The Chief Technology Officer is a key role within the Exchange, responsible with strategically leading and supervising the Exchanges technology adoption, innovation, and utilization. This role is crucial in ensuring the Exchange remains upfront in the industry by adopting state-of-the-art technologies, including Information Technology, while effectively coordinating and guiding a diverse and skilled team towards this shared objective. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong technical and leadership background, with expertise in information technology, software development, enterprise IT management, and project management within a dynamic and innovative environment

Duties and Responsibilities of the Role

Develop and implement a comprehensive technology strategy that aligns with the overall business goals and objectives of the Exchange.

Lead all aspects of technology adoption, innovation, and utilization, including but not limited to Information and Communication Technology (ICT), ensuring comprehensive implementation and integration as necessary

Oversee all aspects of technology operations, including infrastructure, security, software development, and data management.

Lead the development and implementation of trading platforms, market data solutions, and other technology initiatives.

Identify, analyze, plan and strategize the adoption of technologies and tools that support the operation of the exchange, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and maximizing efficiency and effectiveness.

Coordinate the Exchange's interaction, including interfacing and integration, with other institutions or technology vendors to ensure seamless collaboration and alignment of objectives.

Partner with other business leaders to understand their needs and ensure that the technology solutions provide the necessary support.

Stay up-to-date on the latest trends in financial technology and identify opportunities to leverage new technologies to improve the exchange's competitiveness.

Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements related to technology.

Develop and maintain a comprehensive cybersecurity program to protect the Exchange's data and systems.

Manage the technology budget and ensure efficient use of resources.

Lead and mentor a high-performing team of technologists, engineers, and developers, fostering a culture of accountability, creativity, and continuous learning.

Provide guidance and support to team members, promoting professional growth and development through training, coaching, and performance feedback.

Coordinate the work of external vendors and consultants to ensure their deliverables meet the Exchange's standards and requirements.

Develop and oversee technology requirements and specifications for procurement or in-house development, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and standards.

Supervise the implementation and ensure smooth operation of technologies, guaranteeing their availability and accessibility to all stakeholders.

Perform other related tasks as assigned by the Chief Operating Officer.

Work Relationship

Internal: Technology Team, other line managers and units.

External: Vendors, hosting sites, partners.

Reports to:Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Qualification Required:

MSc/BSc in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Information Technology or related field of study.

A minimum of 15 years of experience, with at least 6 years in leadership roles within the technology sector, preferably within the financial services industry.

Certificates in Project Management (PMP or PRINCE2) and IT Service Management

Industry technical certifications in areas such as Software Development, Database Administration, Network Management, or Cyber Security are advantageous.

Proven experience in developing and implementing technology strategies for complex organizations.

Strong understanding of financial markets and trading systems.

Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to think strategically and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Demonstrated ability to build and manage high-performing teams.

Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and practices.

Competency requirements:

Excellent problem-solving skills, defines a problem, generates solutions and evaluates and identifies the best solution to overcome the problem.

Current knowledge of industry practices, trends, and issues.

Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, particularly in managing board meetings and compliance deadlines.

Energetic, ability to work effectively as a team member in a private multi-cultural environment.

Good interpersonal, presentation and written communication skills, ethical and high-level of integrity.

A positive "can-do" attitude, open-minded & sense of ownership.

Language requirements:

Fluency in English and Amharic