Associate Director for Information Technology and Digital Engagement

EEO Policy Statement The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu). USG Core Values Statement The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02., The Associate Director for Information Technology and Digital Engagement provides strategic leadership for the Division of Student Affairs’ information technology infrastructure, digital engagement initiatives and technology-enabled services. Reporting to the Director of Communications and IT, this position supervises and develops a multidisciplinary team while creating and implementing short- and long-term strategies that advance the Division’s mission, strategic priorities, operational effectiveness and delivery of services to students and staff. The position exercises significant autonomy and independent judgment in evaluating complex needs, identifying opportunities for innovation and process improvement, assessing emerging technologies, and developing sustainable solutions that integrate technology, digital communications, data-informed decision-making, and user experience., This position leads the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of divisional IT systems, applications, devices, websites and digital platforms, ensuring their security, reliability, accessibility, usability and alignment with university standards and best practices. It also directs digital engagement strategy and oversees the design, development, maintenance and optimization of online resources to strengthen the Division’s brand, enhance engagement and improve access to programs and services. Working collaboratively with divisional leadership, departmental technology and communications teams, and university partners, the position identifies shared priorities, coordinates cross-functional initiatives, and advances efficiencies and integrated solutions across the Division., * This position has been designated as Essential Personnel Pool - meaning the employee may be asked to report to work for the purposes of maintaining critical operations during inclement weather or other emergency situations. Employees in this role may be required to report to work when the University is closed or operating under modified conditions. The employee will be contacted by their supervisor (or designee) with instructions on when and where to report and what duties will be necessary. Communication will occur via the employee’s primary contact information on file (e.g., phone, email or other agreed-upon method). The designation of Essential Personnel Pool will be reviewed annually during the performance evaluation period to ensure alignment with operational needs.

Physical Demands Lift and carry computers and printers from office to office. Is driving a responsibility of this position? No Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? Yes Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) Yes Credit and P-Card policy Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website. Background Investigation Policy Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website., Personnel Leadership, Operational Management and Other Support:

• Recruit, train, supervise and evaluate five professional staff members responsible for IT operations, digital engagement and web content development.
• Actively promote and participate in the development, retention and engagement of each staff member.
• Coordinate work across divisional technology teams to support consistent service delivery and effective implementation of divisional initiatives.
• Collaborate with divisional leadership and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs on strategic priorities, resource planning, communications, fundraising initiatives and special projects.
• Prepare reports, recommendations, and other administrative materials; support divisional events and initiatives, as needed; and maintain knowledge of the Division’s mission, strategic plan, goals and operations.
• Review memorandums of understanding related to technological services, software licensing and institutional file storage to ensure accuracy.
• Serve as a Division of Student Affairs representative on various campuswide committees and advisory groups.
• Assume other duties assigned that are consistent with the purpose and scope of this position, which may include evening, weekend and holiday hours.

Percentage of time 30, * Provide strategic leadership and oversight for information technology services, infrastructure, systems and resources supporting the Division of Student Affairs and its departments.

• Develop and implement short- and long-term IT strategies aligned with divisional priorities and University of Georgia policies, standards and security requirements.
• Oversee the administration, maintenance, security, storage, backup, recovery, and performance of hardware, software, networks, servers, databases, applications, and end-user devices, including mission-critical systems.
• Establish and review IT policies, procedures and best practices; evaluate technology needs and emerging solutions; and coordinate implementation of secure, reliable and sustainable technology services.
• Develop and manage IT budgets, hardware and software purchasing and maintenance plans, and long-range resource strategies, including the oversight of Student Technology Fee requests, planning and administration.

Percentage of time 30, Digital Engagement Strategy and Web Development:

• Lead the strategy, design, development, implementation and continuous improvement of the Division’s digital engagement platforms and initiatives.
• Oversee divisional and departmental websites, content management systems, mobile applications, web-based services, databases, digital interfaces and emerging technologies to support student engagement, program delivery, communications and operational effectiveness. Coordinate SSO integrations, as needed.
• Direct website architecture, user interface and user experience design, navigation, functionality, integrations, and technical development.
• Establish and maintain standards for web design, content, coding, performance, security, accessibility and usability.
• Monitor website functionality and analytics, conducts periodic audits and identifies opportunities to improve the digital experience, strengthen service delivery and increase operational efficiencies.
• Provide consultation and technical support for digital engagement opportunities and third-party software.
• Ensure digital content and initiatives comply with applicable accessibility requirements, intellectual property laws, copyright and trademark requirements, and University policies.

Percentage of time 30, Technology Innovation, Project Management and Cross-Divisional Collaboration:

• Evaluate current and emerging technologies, conduct research and testing, and recommend innovative solutions to address complex operational, communication and student engagement needs.
• Lead or coordinate the evaluation, acquisition, implementation, integration, and ongoing administration of third-party software, cloud-based services, applications, and other technology solutions.
• Collaborate with divisional IT units, digital engagement, and data leads; departmental technology and communications staff; University IT and communications partners; and campus-wide committees and advisory groups to align initiatives, communicate Divisional updates, establish standards, coordinate resources and promote integrated solutions.
• Provide consultation and project management for technology and digital initiatives, identify opportunities for shared services and process improvement and translate organizational needs into practical, sustainable solutions that enhance the student experience and divisional effectiveness., + Current UGA Employee
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Applicant Documents

Required Documents

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter
3. List of References with Contact Information

Optional Documents

Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact University HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

We are unable to offer a work visa sponsorship for this position. You must be authorized to work in the U.S. to apply., Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent plus 10 years of professional experience to include 3 years of supervisory experience, * Previous supervision experience or demonstrated ability to supervise a team and/or lead technology projects or initiatives.

• Experience with programming or scripting languages (e.g., Java, PHP) and database platforms (e.g., Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle).
• Experience with macOS, Adobe Creative Suite, and preparing or optimizing digital media for multiple platforms.
• Experience in maintaining and enhancing computer/network support, information systems and mobile technologies.
• Experience with web content management systems, cloud-based services, website analytics, and the integration and administration of enterprise applications., * Technical and digital expertise: to include a demonstrated knowledge of information systems, infrastructure, data and IT security, databases, web technologies and/or digital platforms; and the ability to evaluate complex technical and operational needs, troubleshoot problems, integrate solutions, leverage internal and external resources, and identify opportunities to improve services and operational effectiveness.
• Strategic thinking and independent judgment: the proven ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative, analyze information, develop sound recommendations, manage complex initiatives and implement creative, mission-focused solutions. Demonstrated ability to anticipate challenges, balance competing priorities, and improve processes and efficiencies.
• Leadership and collaboration: demonstrated leadership and project management skills, including the ability to establish priorities, coordinate cross-functional initiatives, foster collaboration, and build productive relationships with diverse stakeholders. Ability to lead teams, support professional development, and promote accountability and service excellence.
• Communication and interpersonal skills: excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear, concise reports and recommendations and communicate technical and digital concepts effectively to varied audiences. Ability to represent the Division professionally and work effectively with university administrators, faculty, staff, students, external partners and other stakeholders.
• Organization and problem-solving: strong analytical, organizational and problem-solving skills, with demonstrated attention to detail and the ability to interpret information accurately, manage multiple complex projects, establish priorities, meet deadlines and resolve issues efficiently.
• Web development and digital engagement: thorough knowledge of web development, responsive design, user experience, digital content management and multimedia production. Ability to support accessible, secure, functional and user-centered digital platforms and communications consistent with university standards and brand requirements.
• Systems, applications and digital tools: proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn and administer institutional systems, applications and business processes. Familiarity with database creation and administration, operating systems, digital media tools, AI use and software used to support IT operations and digital engagement.
• Organizational and administrative knowledge: Ability to understand and apply the Division’s mission, goals, operations, services and priorities to technology and digital initiatives. Ability to learn and follow University of Georgia policies, procedures, purchasing regulations, and applicable technology, security, accessibility, and communications standards.

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.