Executive Director of IT Operations

The University of Maine System is seeking a collaborative and strategic technology leader to serve as our Executive Director of IT Operations. In this senior leadership role you will oversee critical infrastructure operations that support seven universities, the University of Maine School of Law, and the System Office, ensuring reliable, secure, and modern technology services for thousands of students, faculty, and staff.

Reporting to the Associate Chief Information Officer of Infrastructure and Network Services, you will lead teams responsible for enterprise network operations, structured cabling, infrastructure financial management, and operational excellence while helping shape the future of IT across the University of Maine System.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and mentor a team of IT leaders responsible for enterprise infrastructure operations.
• Oversee the delivery of complex infrastructure initiatives, including network upgrades, capital projects, renovations, and technology modernization efforts.
• Develop and implement operational strategies that improve reliability, resilience, and service quality across multiple campuses.
• Manage infrastructure budgets, capital planning, vendor relationships, and contract performance.
• Partner closely with campus IT, Facilities, Procurement, Finance, and executive leadership to coordinate large-scale initiatives.
• Establish operational metrics, drive continuous improvement, and ensure alignment with cybersecurity and compliance requirements.
• Foster a collaborative, service-oriented culture focused on innovation, accountability, and exceptional customer service., Important items to know about the recruitment process:
• Review of applications will begin immediately. The position will remain open through Sunday, July 19, 2026.
• Incomplete application materials cannot be considered.
• Candidates selected to proceed to the final stages of the search process will be requested to provide three (3) names and contact information for references.
• The successful applicant is subject to appropriate background screenings.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in and reside in the United States. Please Note: We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship now or in the future.

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Engineering, Business, or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Eight or more years of progressively responsible leadership experience in IT operations, infrastructure, or network services.
• Experience leading managers and cross-functional operational teams in a complex, multi-site IT environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in:
• Enterprise networking and infrastructure operations
• Strategic planning and technology modernization
• Budget development and financial stewardship
• Vendor and contract management
• Leading large, cross-functional projects
• Building collaborative relationships across technical and non-technical stakeholders, * Master’s degree in a related discipline.
• Ten or more years of senior IT leadership experience.
• Experience in higher education or another complex, distributed organization.
• Familiarity with ITIL or other IT service management frameworks.
• Experience supporting network operations centers, structured cabling, and capital construction projects.

4.14.1 out of 5 stars United States $125,000 - $135,000 a year - Full-time, Pulled from the full job description

• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays, Schedule: The standard work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Salary: The hiring range for this position is $125,000 to $135,000 and is commensurate with training, education, and experience.

Why Join the University of Maine System?

At UMS, technology plays a critical role in advancing education, research, and public service across the state of Maine. This position offers the opportunity to lead transformational infrastructure initiatives while working with talented professionals dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and service., * Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits

• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Retirement plan with employer contributions
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible remote work environment with occasional travel to campuses across Maine
• The opportunity to make a lasting impact on higher education throughout the state