Head of Information Technology

Head of Information Technology

Job ID:

HQ01937

Location

Philippines

Closing Date

22-Nov-2026

About IRRI

The International Rice Research Institute is the world’s premier research organization dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science. Its 10-year vision is to transform global rice-based agri-food systems through research innovations, demand-driven solutions, and strategic partnerships.

IRRI applies its expertise to improve nutrition, promote sustainable production, and enhance farmers’ livelihoods without compromising the environment.

Its research-for-development approach is rooted in collaboration, forming alliances with advanced research institutes; working with governments and national agricultural research and extension systems; and partnering with the development sector while brokering innovative delivery channels through the private sector.

IRRI’s work is supported by a diverse network of funders aligned with its shared goals.

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Chief Financial and Administrative Officer (CFAO), the Head of Information Technology will set direction for and oversee the delivery of enterprise IT services supporting IRRI’s research and institutional operations. The role is accountable for IT infrastructure, enterprise systems, cybersecurity, service management, and the governance of information and knowledge management services within the IT function. The Head advises institutional leadership on technology priorities and represents IRRI in relevant CGIAR initiatives.

This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baños, Philippines and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Philippines.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Lead IRRI's enterprise IT function by defining and implementing technology strategies, standards, and services that enable research, operations, and institutional priorities
• Lead the strategy, optimization, and governance of IRRI’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to enable integrated, efficient, and well-controlled finance, HR, procurement, and administrative processes
• Ensure secure, reliable, and scalable IT infrastructure and enterprise systems that support administrative, scientific, communication, and hybrid work environments across the Institute
• Drive the modernization and continuous improvement of enterprise IT services, platforms, and technologies to enhance organizational effectiveness
• Strengthen IT governance, cybersecurity, disaster recovery, and business continuity capabilities to protect critical institutional systems and information assets
• Ensure technology services support compliance with data privacy, information security, and institutional governance requirements
• Advise Executive Leadership, Research Directors, and institutional units on enterprise technology, infrastructure, cybersecurity, information management, and IT investment priorities
• Collaborate with Finance, HR, Procurement, and other business process owners to align ERP functionality, enhancements, and data standards with institutional requirements
• Lead and develop IT teams and contractors, fostering a high-performing, customer-focused, and collaborative service culture
• Partner with research programs, corporate functions, regional offices, and CGIAR counterparts to align technology services with evolving organizational needs
• Build and manage relationships with technology vendors, cloud providers, and external service partners to ensure reliable, cost-effective, and future-ready IT services
• Represent IRRI in institutional and CGIAR technology initiatives, promoting collaboration and adoption of enterprise technology standards
• Provide oversight of enterprise IT operations, ensuring high-quality, secure, and cost-effective delivery of technology services within approved workplans and budgets
• Lead service performance management by monitoring operational effectiveness, identifying risks, and implementing continuous improvements across IT services
• Oversee ERP system administration, upgrades, integrations, and user support, ensuring system stability, data integrity, and timely resolution of issues
• Champion user adoption through institutional guidance, capability building, and awareness programs on enterprise technologies, cybersecurity, and information security practices
• Deliver operational reporting and technology insights that support evidence-based decision-making and long-term IT planning
• Perform any other relevant duties as assigned by supervisor from time to time

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related discipline, Master’s Degree preferred
• At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in information technology, systems, infrastructure, or related functions, including experience in a supervisory or managerial capacity

Skills Required

Mandatory

• Strong technical knowledge and demonstrated practical experience in information technology and related services.
• Demonstrated ability to translate organizational requirements into practical IT solutions, plans, and services.
• Good knowledge of IT infrastructure, systems administration, cybersecurity, information security, and emerging technologies.
• Demonstrated experience in coordinating IT projects and implementing technology solutions.
• Good leadership, communication, coordination, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in monitoring IT service providers, contracts, and service delivery.
• Experience in preparing and monitoring IT budgets and expenditures.

Preferred

• Experience working with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders, preferably in a multicultural or international organization.

IRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances.

Join our team and be part of our story!

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain open until filled.