DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & SYSTEMS

As a member of the IBHE extended leadership team, the Director of Information Technology & Systems provides senior-level oversight of assigned unit(s), leads and directs the information technology units including but not limited to network systems, cybersecurity, online applications, database development, website, software and hardware management, and all other information technology systems and support to ensure smooth agency operations for the Illinois Board of Higher Education and supportive and productive relationships with institutional partners and other stakeholders; supports strategic planning and policy development; sets and executes on a comprehensive technology strategy and vision that supports the agency’s mission; serves as a trusted advisor to Executive Director and other Agency Executive Staff on matters of Information Technology & Systems; oversees execution; accountable for overall results and sustainable operation of defined unit(s), * Provides direct oversight and management of the Information Technology Unit including Agency network systems, cybersecurity, database development, online applications, websites, and all other information technology systems, providing support to ensure smooth agency operation; Sets direction, provides direct oversight and oversees execution of assigned unit(s);contributes to agency annual planning, goal setting, budget development, priority development, and Board presentation and reporting (as required); contributes to a collaborative agency culture

• Assists in implementing the Agency’s strategic plan for higher education, including ensuring the agency has the technology tools to assess achievement of the plan’s goals and objectives
• Analyzes and reports on complex issues relating to information systems and technology in a higher education policy context
• Plans, directs, and manages the assigned unit(s) to ensure the development and implementation of cost-effective systems and efficient operations to meet current and future decision-making requirements
• Leads and Directs both Systems and Data administration areas within the department including all software / hardware within those areas (i.e. networking hardware and software (wired and wireless), networked connections ((intra and inter)net), both on-site and off-site servers (Windows Server and Linux Server OS’), Data stores (databases, data warehouse, file system, etc…))
• Responsible for the compliance and governance of appropriate industry standards to meet / exceed audit requirements - ensuring effective and secure policies, procedures, and support practices; keeps abreast of current and advancing trends
• Leads and Directs unit staff efforts to effectively utilize technology to increase the visibility and impact of agency work to stakeholders (e.g., web site design, use of social media, dissemination of reports and analyses)
• Responsible for supporting other unit technology needs, and managing systems and processes in those efforts
• Leads the development of public-facing and internal data assets that include IBHE information
• Serves as a liaison to other state agencies, including the Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) and Governor’s Office on various information technology and system priorities as they emerge
• Supervises and mentors assigned staff; provides leadership for hiring, onboarding, and professional development ensuring their success
• Other duties as assigned, reasonably within scope of position

Required

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college/university in Information Technology, Management Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field
• Formal education and/or experience in the field of information technology and systems
• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible professional, related experience with at least 5 years of experience managing professional staff
• 7+ years experience using one or more common query/reporting tools (SSMS, SQL development, TOAD, Cognos, SSRS, Crystal Reports, exporting to MS Excel)
• 5+ years experience managing Microsoft systems, platforms and products
• 1+ years experience managing Linux, or other Xinux systems interfacing with Microsoft systems
• 1+ years experience managing to appropriate industry standards (ISO standards ISO/IEC 27001, NIST 800-53, COBIT 5)
• Experience building and maintaining a service-oriented culture
• Experience analyzing programs and developing and implementing an effective course of action
• Experience estimating and budgeting for future needs and costs of personnel, equipment, supplies and services
• Experience leading complex changes in a public-facing environment
• Experience developing, implementing, and interpreting departmental policies and procedures

Preferred:

• Additional certifications in IT management, project management or computer information systems

Skills and Traits

• Commitment to public service and passion for education
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a strong focus on collaboration and teamwork with the ability to build and maintain positive working relationships
• Commitment to confidentiality
• Demonstrated ability to work with a variety of constituents and stakeholders, such as Board members, senior government executives, elected officials, institutional officers and leaders, and private sector leaders.
• Excellent problem-solving and written and verbal communication skills
• Strong project-management skills, excellent follow-through, and ability to organize and prioritize
• Sound judgement and discretion

Organizational Chart

About the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE)

IBHE has been supporting higher education in Illinois for more than 50 years. We are a dedicated team of professionals, overseen by a Board appointed by the Governor, who are working for a strong, equitable higher education system, which we believe is essential for the state to thrive. We work with leaders in colleges, universities, state and federal government agencies, governors, legislators, and other entities to strategically further this mission.

In its strategic plan, A Thriving Illinois: Higher Education Paths to Equity, Sustainability, and Growth, IBHE has identified three goals and 25 strategies to help achieve its vision of a higher education ecosystem that ensures individuals, families, and communities across the state thrive.

• Equity - Close equity gaps for students who have been left behind.
• Sustainability - Build a stronger financial future for individuals and institutions.
• Growth - Increase talent and innovation that drives economic growth.