About Saint Peter’s University
Saint Peter’s is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States. Established in 1872, the University blends a unique learning experience shaped by rigorous academics, internships that provide real-world experience, community service, and a genuine, caring community that supports alumni long after graduation. Saint Peter’s offers more than 50 undergraduate majors as well as master’s level and doctorate program.
Summary Description:
Saint Peter’s University seeks a strategic and forward-thinking Chief Information Officer (CIO) to lead the institution’s technology vision and execution. Reporting to the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, the CIO is responsible for aligning technology strategy with institutional priorities to support academic excellence, operational efficiency, and long-term financial sustainability.
The CIO provides executive leadership for all aspects of information technology, including enterprise systems, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data strategy. This role oversees the performance and modernization of core platforms, including the University’s ERP system (Ellucian Colleague), while driving digital transformation initiatives that enhance the student, faculty, and staff experience.
A key member of the University’s leadership team, the CIO partners closely with academic and administrative leaders to deliver innovative, secure, and scalable technology solutions. The successful candidate will bring a strong combination of strategic vision, operational leadership, and the ability to translate complex technology concepts into institutional value.
Description of Duties and Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Institutional Alignment
Develop and execute a comprehensive, multi-year IT strategic plan aligned with the University’s strategic priorities and financial sustainability goals
Partner with the EVP/COO, President, and Cabinet to integrate technology into institutional decision-making and long-term planning
Establish IT governance structures, including prioritization frameworks, steering committees, and performance metrics
Serve as a visible campus leader, promoting innovation and fostering a culture of continuous improvement
Translate complex technical concepts into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders and Board members
Enterprise Systems & Digital Transformation
Provide executive oversight of all enterprise platforms, including ERP (Ellucian Colleague), CRM, LMS, and analytics tools
Lead digital transformation initiatives to modernize administrative and academic processes
Ensure enterprise systems are optimized for performance, usability, and scalability
Champion the adoption of SaaS solutions and cloud-based platforms where appropriate
Oversee system integrations to ensure seamless data flow across the institution
Data Strategy, Analytics & Reporting
Establish and lead a university-wide data governance framework to ensure data integrity, consistency, and security
Expand business intelligence and analytics capabilities to support data-driven decision-making
Partner with Finance, Enrollment, Advancement, and Academic Affairs to enhance reporting capabilities
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and accreditation reporting requirements
Cybersecurity, Risk & Compliance
Develop and maintain a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy and institutional risk posture
Oversee compliance with regulatory requirements (FERPA, GLBA, HIPAA, etc.)
Lead incident response planning and execution for cybersecurity threats
Ensure robust disaster recovery and business continuity planning
Regularly brief executive leadership on risk exposure and mitigation strategies
IT Operations & Infrastructure
Provide oversight for all IT infrastructure, including networks, cloud services, and data centers
Ensure high availability, reliability, and performance of all systems
Lead modernization initiatives, including cloud migration and infrastructure optimization
Establish IT service management frameworks to improve user experience and service delivery
Financial Management & Vendor Strategy
Develop and manage the IT operating and capital budgets in alignment with institutional financial goals
Evaluate total cost of ownership and ROI for technology investments
Lead contract negotiations and vendor management, including ERP and managed service providers
Identify cost optimization opportunities while maintaining service quality
Leadership & Organizational Development
Build, mentor, and retain a high-performing IT leadership team
Establish clear performance expectations and accountability measures
Promote a collaborative, service-oriented culture within IT
Ensure staff development aligns with evolving technology trends
Pay Range: $180,000 - $200,000 annually. This role is based in-person at the Saint Peter’s University campus.
Benefits:
Along with a competitive salary, we provide a robust benefits package to support your health and future goals.
Key Benefits Include:
Paid Time Off: Paid holidays, personal days, vacation, and sick leave
Health Coverage: Health insurance, dental insurance, and vision insurance
Life Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance
Life & Disability Insurance: Voluntary life and voluntary disability coverage
Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with Roth and Traditional options
Tuition Remission: An attractive tuition remission policy for employees and their dependents
Additional Perks: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Voluntary Legal plan, FSA and more
The well-being of our employees is a priority for our University, and we are committed to promoting your success and well-being.
Qualification Standards:
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field
- 10–15+ years of progressive IT leadership experience
- Demonstrated success leading enterprise IT strategy in complex organizations
- Experience with ERP systems (preferably Ellucian Colleague)
- Strong financial acumen and experience managing large budgets
Preferred
- Master’s degree (MBA, MIS, or related field)
- Experience in higher education or mission-driven organization