Chief Technology Officer

This senior level role is responsible to develop, plan, and implement an information technology (IT) strategy that meets the credit union’s business needs, delivers optimal return on investment, and maintains utmost security. Demonstrates organizational leadership in directing and coordinating a broad range of activities to achieve the credit union’s strategic plan and objectives. Oversees projects and assignments within the Information Technology (IT) department. Leads efficient operation of the team so that prompt modernization and upgrades of IT are performed as needed. Conducts performance evaluations that are timely and constructive. Actively participates on the security committee, works directly with the board of directors, is staff liaison for the supervisory committee.

Provides overall direction to all departments and fosters an enthusiastic employee culture. Represents the credit union to various regulatory agencies, trade associations, community, members, and other financial organizations.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

• Collaborates with executive leadership to align IT strategy with business and financial goals. Identifies opportunities where IT can support business objectives and enhance operational efficiency. Works with stakeholders to develop, propose, and implement IT strategies and policies. Establishes long-term IT needs, plans system development, and oversees the procurement of software, hardware, and services to meet organizational goals. Anticipates and prepares for emerging IT developments and technological trends that impact the credit union.
• Directs and manages the activities of the IT department, ensuring alignment with credit union objectives and operational efficiency. Communicates credit union goals, projects, and timelines to the IT department, ensuring accountability and execution. Leads recruitment, development, and performance management for IT personnel. Oversees departmental operations, ensuring that all systems, infrastructure, and support activities are performed in alignment with strategic objectives. Acts as a top-level contact for end users, assisting them in determining IT requirements and proposing viable solutions.
• Ensures that IT systems comply with all applicable regulations, industry standards, and organizational policies. Leads the development and implementation of procedural changes to maintain compliance as regulations evolve or new programs are introduced. Oversees the organization’s data protection, network security, and system integrity efforts. Develops and enforces data privacy policies and ensures that risk management practices are in place for all IT functions. Works with internal and external auditors to ensure security protocols are met and any findings are addressed.
• Oversees the maintenance and management of IT and network infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted access to computing, data processing, and communications systems. Monitors the performance and availability of the IT environment, ensuring maximum uptime and system efficiency. Ensures systems are upgraded and maintained to support new technologies, business needs, and regulatory changes. Supports IT troubleshooting and provides escalation assistance for end users, ensuring that timely support is provided for critical systems.
• Develops, proposes, and manages the IT department’s budget, ensuring alignment with financial goals and strategic initiatives. Reviews and approves expenditures for software, hardware, services, and personnel. Manages the allocation of IT resources and ensures they are used efficiently to achieve business objectives. Oversees the selection and acquisition of software, hardware, and IT services, negotiating contracts to achieve optimal cost-benefit outcomes. Tracks IT-related expenses and ensures adherence to the approved budget.
• Identifies areas where IT systems and processes can be improved to support better business performance, efficiency, and cost savings. Designs and implements process changes and system upgrades that drive operational improvements. Plans and directs strategies to improve system reliability and reduce downtime. Develops business continuity and disaster recovery plans, ensuring operational continuity during emergencies or system failures. Regularly reviews and updates continuity plans as part of ongoing risk management.

Join us to lead innovative technological advancements that empower our community-focused mission!

Pay: $120,000.00 - $160,000.00 per year

• Master’s (Preferred)

Experience:

• similar or related : 5 years (Preferred)

Pulled from the full job description

• Referral program
• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off
• Employee discount, * 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

At St Cloud Financial Credit Union, we are passionate about our vision to make a meaningful difference through human connection. Each employee will demonstrate our core values and mission: To make a difference for all, we advocate for people through a member-focused culture, an enthusiastic employee environment, and purposeful action within our community.