Chief Information Officer

About this role

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), a state-owned aviation company, is looking for a senior technology leader to guide its digital future. The role is based in Gauteng and reports to the Chief Operating Officer. The person in this post will set the direction for ACSA’s IT, data, information security and technology operations.

What you’ll do

• Build the ICT and digital strategy and roadmap, turning the Corporate Plan into priority technology investments with clear business results. You will also govern the enterprise architecture.
• Lead the airport-wide smart airport roadmap, covering AI, IoT, automation, biometrics, digital twins and a connected airport operations centre.
• Own all ICT services and platforms, keeping critical airport systems running. This includes tested business continuity and disaster recovery plans.
• Set up a zero-trust cyber security strategy and coordinate incident response with national cyber structures and aviation regulators.
• Make sure ACSA meets POPIA, ICAO aviation cyber security rules, ISO 27001 and other standards that apply.
• Drive the enterprise data strategy, business intelligence, predictive analytics and an AI governance framework.
• Manage the ICT operating and capital budgets, and lead value-for-money procurement under the PFMA and PPPFA.
• Report on ICT governance, cyber risk and performance to executive management, the Audit and Risk Committee and the Board. You will also lead, develop and coach a high-performing ICT team.

What you need

• A relevant Honours Degree (NQF Level 8) in information technology, computer science or an equivalent field. This is essential.
• An MBA, MBL or a master’s degree in IT, computer science or an equivalent field (NQF Level 9). This is advantageous.
• Registration with the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA) or another relevant professional body.
• A total of 13 years’ experience, including 8 years in business-facing ICT management and governance and 5 years at senior management level.
• Strong knowledge of IT strategy, governance, resilience and operations, including enterprise architecture, information security, service integration and strategic sourcing.
• Executive-level skills in digital transformation, complex programme delivery, cyber risk and commercial management.
• Working knowledge of the aviation, transport or airports industry, and an understanding of the public sector.
• Knowledge of the ACSA Act, Companies Act, B-BBEE, PFMA and PPPFA legislation, and of ACI, ICAO, CAA and IATA requirements.

Is this job for you?

This role suits a strategic leader who can turn a business vision into technology programmes. You should be comfortable making sound decisions in a complex, regulated environment. You communicate clearly, build networks and handle conflict in a constructive way.

Tips before you apply

• Have certified copies of your qualifications and proof of NQF level and credits ready. Shortlisted candidates must provide these.
• Show your years of senior ICT management in your CV. Name the specific areas, such as governance, cyber risk and budget ownership.
• Give concrete examples of digital or smart-technology programmes you led, with the results they delivered. Link them to the aviation or public sector where you can.

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