Section Head of ACT CIO Communication and Information System Operations

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the Headquarters Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (HQ SACT), which is a NATO body responsible for leading the transformation of NATO's military capabilities. The organization plays a crucial role in preserving peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and territorial integrity among NATO member states. HQ SACT focuses on Warfare Development at the Strategic Command level, ensuring that NATO's military structures, forces, capabilities, and doctrines are continuously enhanced. The organization operates with a commitment to efficiency and effectiveness, monitoring internal management and resource-related issues to maintain coherence in its plans and operations. HQ SACT is part of a larger NATO framework that includes various commands and agencies, working collaboratively to achieve strategic military objectives.

Job Overview:
The position of Section Head of ACT CIO Communication and Information System Operations is pivotal within the ACT CIS, Data & Information Branch. The incumbent will oversee the Service Level Management and CIS Requirements, ensuring that the communication and information systems are effectively managed and supported within HQ SACT. This role involves acting as the primary point of contact for service level management, leading negotiations for the ACT Enterprise Service Level Agreement (ESLA), and coordinating with subordinate commands and the NCI Agency. The Section Head will also be responsible for identifying and planning new requirements, implementing policies, and representing ACT in various NATO boards and conferences. The role requires a strategic mindset, as the incumbent will contribute to the operational validation and prioritization of requests affecting the Service Level Agreement, thereby directly influencing the command's operational capabilities and decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The principal duties of the Section Head include supervising the Service Level Management and CIS Requirements within the section, acting as the point of contact for service level management for ACT, leading negotiations and revisions of the ACT Enterprise Service Level Agreement, and monitoring and coordinating negotiations of SLAs between ACT and the NCI Agency. The incumbent will also be responsible for identifying, developing, and planning new requirements, coordinating services and funding, and implementing CIS Operations policies. Additionally, the Section Head will represent ACT in the development of the Centralized Service Level Agreement with ACO, participate in NATO boards and conferences, and serve as the central point of contact for outside agencies requesting support from ACT. The role requires operational validation, prioritization, and approval of requests, ensuring that the section meets its objectives effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a University Degree with at least 4 years of post-related experience, or a Higher Secondary education with advanced vocational training leading to a professional qualification and 5 years of post-related experience, including 2 years of function-related experience. Essential qualifications include experience in CIS planning, management, and implementation, familiarity with ITIL IT Service Management, and experience in Information Management implementation. Additionally, candidates should have completed the ITIL Foundation Course for IT Service Management, demonstrating a solid understanding of service management principles and practices.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a University Degree or equivalent qualifications that demonstrate the candidate's ability to perform the duties associated with the role. Advanced vocational training leading to a professional qualification is also acceptable, particularly if it is complemented by relevant experience in the field of communication and information systems. The emphasis is on a strong foundation in IT and management principles, which are critical for the effective execution of the responsibilities associated with this position.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in communication and information systems planning, management, and implementation. This experience should include a strong background in ITIL IT Service Management and Information Management implementation. The role also values prior staff experience, particularly within NATO or high-level national military headquarters, as well as experience in Information and Communication Technology at the military operational or strategic level. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing complex IT systems and leading teams in a dynamic environment.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is English, with a proficiency level of SLP 3333, which encompasses listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. This level of proficiency is essential for effective communication within the NATO framework and for the successful execution of the role's responsibilities. While English is the primary language, any additional language skills, particularly in other NATO languages, would be considered advantageous but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a NATO Grade G17 classification. The successful applicant will be required to obtain a NATO SECRET Security Clearance prior to the final confirmation of the contract and commencement of employment. The contract offered to newly recruited staff will be for a definite duration of three years, in accordance with NATO Civilian Personnel Regulations. Candidates should be aware that the recruitment process emphasizes the importance of providing detailed information in the application, particularly in the Education and Experience sections. NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all member nations and strongly promoting the inclusion of women in the workforce.