IT Director | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University

The IT Director is responsible for the strategic planning, implementation, and management of all technology systems supporting venue operations. This role ensures reliable, secure, and innovative IT solutions that enhance guest experience, support event operations, and drive operational efficiency across all managed venues. The IT Director partners closely with Operations, Events, Security, Finance, and external stakeholders to deliver scalable technology solutions aligned with business objectives., * Develop and execute a comprehensive IT strategy aligned with venue business goals and guest experience initiatives.

• Lead IT modernization efforts, including smart venue technologies, mobile integration, and digital transformation.
• Establish IT governance, policies, and standards across all venues.
• Manage IT budgets, forecasting, and capital planning for technology investments.
• Oversee all IT infrastructure, including networks, servers, cloud environments, and on-prem systems.
• Ensure high availability of critical systems such as ticketing platforms, POS systems, access control, and event management tools.
• Manage Wi-Fi and connectivity solutions to support high-density event environments.
• Maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans.
• Oversee event-day IT operations, ensuring seamless support for ticketing, audiovisual integrations, broadcast needs, and vendor systems.
• Support technology needs for concerts, sporting events, conferences, and large-scale public gatherings.
• Ensure integration of systems such as digital signage, IPTV, and building management systems.
• Develop and maintain cybersecurity frameworks, including threat detection, risk assessments, and incident response.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations (PCI-DSS, data privacy laws, etc.) related to payments and customer data.
• Implement security measures across networks, endpoints, and user access.
• Manage relationships with IT vendors, service providers, and technology partners.
• Oversee contract negotiations, SLAs, and vendor performance.
• Collaborate with event organizers, promoters, and tenants to support unique technical requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop IT staff across multiple venues.
• Build a high-performing team capable of supporting complex event environments.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and service excellence.

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5-7+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, preferably in venue management, hospitality, entertainment, or large-scale operations.
• Experience managing IT in high-traffic, real-time operational environments.
• Strong knowledge of: Network infrastructure (high-density Wi-Fi, SD-WAN), Cloud platforms (Azure, AWS), Ticketing and POS systems, Cybersecurity frameworks, and AV and broadcast technologies (preferred).
• Experience with smart building technologies and IoT systems is a plus.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to align IT initiatives to revenue and customer experience goals.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to operate in fast-paced, event-driven environments with flexible hours.
• Availability to support evenings, weekends, and holidays aligned with event schedules.

This role pays a yearly salary of $120,000 - $130,000 and is bonus eligible.

Benefits for FT roles: Benefits: Health, Dental and Vision insurance, 401(k) savings plan, 401(k) matching, and paid time off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays).

This position will remain open until October 2, 2026.