IT Director / Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Job Title: IT Director / Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Location: Maryland Heights, MO

Duration: 6 Months

Job Description: IT Director / Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Position Summary: The IT Director / CIO will provide strategic leadership, vision, and oversight for all IT operations, infrastructure, and governance. This role is responsible for modernizing technology, implementing best practices, and ensuring IT aligns with organizational goals. The IT Director / CIO will drive innovation, security, and operational excellence, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and cross-training.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Develop and execute a strategic IT roadmap aligned with organizational objectives.
• Establish and lead a monthly IT Steering Committee; formalize change control and project validation processes.
• Implement IT governance frameworks and ensure compliance with policies and regulations.
• Create and maintain an IT succession plan, including cross-training and professional development.

Infrastructure & Operations

• Oversee upgrades and replacements of Windows 10 PCs; ensure all standard PCs meet or exceed 16GB RAM.
• Lead server virtualization initiatives and hardware refresh cycles.
• Evaluate and recommend long-term solutions for GIS and database platforms (e.g., assess alternatives to ORACLE).
• Manage network, firewall, and backup solutions; ensure redundancy and resiliency (e.g., secondary internet, modern backup systems).

Support & Service Delivery

• Implement and manage a 24x7x365 IT Helpdesk with ticketing and tracking systems.
• Evaluate opportunities for outsourcing IT support, both short and long term.
• Address Police Department (PD) specific IT needs, including consideration for dedicated support staff.

Security & Compliance

• Strengthen Active Directory password policies and enforce screen lockouts.
• Oversee rollout of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR).
• Ensure regular patching, testing, and disaster recovery planning.
• Monitor cybersecurity risks, including dark web monitoring and user training.

Policy & Employee Engagement

• Maintain current, sensible IT policies; ensure annual employee sign-off and review.
• Promote cyber hygiene and acceptable use policies across the organization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 7+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, including strategic planning and governance.
• Proven experience with infrastructure modernization, virtualization, and cloud migration.
• Strong background in IT service management, helpdesk operations, and vendor management.
• Expertise in cybersecurity, compliance, and risk management.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and change management skills.

Desired Competencies

• Strategic thinker with ability to translate business needs into IT solutions.
• Collaborative leader who fosters cross-functional teamwork and professional growth.
• Proactive problem solver with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Experience in municipal or public sector IT environments is a plus.

Reporting & Collaboration

• Reports to: City Manager or equivalent executive leadership.
• Collaborates with: Department heads, Police Department, external vendors, and IT staff.