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Job description

The postholder will lead the development and delivery of the organisation’s Technology and AI Strategy, ensuring alignment with corporate priorities, and embedding digital innovation into organisational processes. They will have overall responsibility for all customer-facing technology platforms, ensuring effective governance, performance, and continuous improvement. Please see employer website for full job details & person specification.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation, and continuous review of the organisation’s Technology Strategy.
• Provide strategic oversight and management of all customer-facing technology platforms.
• Provide strategic leadership within responsible projects including data management, analytics and insight generation.
• Lead the identification, evaluation and implementation of AI solutions across organisational functions.
• Develop and manage budgets for technology and data services.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders across public, voluntary, community and private sectors.
• Lead, manage and develop the Customer Technology function.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• A third level qualification in Information Technology, Computing, Digital Innovation or a related discipline OR a minimum of 5 years senior management experience in a technology or digital leadership role involving similar scale and complexity.
• Demonstrable experience of developing and implementing technology and/or data strategies.
• Proven experience of managing enterprise systems and/or significant customer facing digital platforms.
• Experience of data management, data governance and analytics frameworks.
• Experience of leading or implementing AI or digital innovation initiatives.
• Experience of managing multidisciplinary teams and driving organisational change.
• Strong knowledge of cyber security, data protection and information governance.
• Experience of budget management and procurement of IT/digital services.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Knowledge of current and emerging developments in technology and AI.
• A full current driving licence enabling the holder to drive in NI and have the use of a vehicle for official purposes or have access to a form of transport that will enable the candidate to meet the requirements of the post in full.

Desirable Skills

• Qualification in IT Service Management, Project Management or Agile methodologies.
• Qualification in Information Governance or Cyber Security.
• Experience working in the public or voluntary sector.

Further Information

Location: Early Years Headquarters, Belfast, a hybrid working policy is in place. Fixed term: 2 year contract. At Early Years, we are committed to fostering growth for both the children and our staff. Joining means an opportunity to enhance your skills, make a meaningful difference, and collaborate with a team that upholds dedication, compassion, and excellence in early years care and education. In return, Early Years provides a comprehensive rewards package, including a competitive salary, 36 days of annual leave (pro-rata), inclusive of statutory/public holidays, a contributory pension scheme, options to purchase additional leave, and access to healthcare schemes. The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Friday 24 July 2026. For shortlisted applicants it is anticipated that interviews will take place on Wednesday 12 August 2026. A reserve list may be held for a period of up to six months for the same or similar roles. If this applies to you, we’ll let you know via email. Should you need to contact us, please use the following methods: Email: monitoringofficer@early-years.org. Phone: 028 9066 2825 Option 5. Early Years is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to providing flexible friendly working conditions. As Protestants and males are currently known to be under-represented in the Organisation, we would particularly welcome applications from these groups.