Computer Science Education Jobs in Laurel, MS (NOW HIRING)

The Executive Director of Information Services is responsible for providing strategic leadership, vision, and direction for the organization's information technology (IT) and digital transformation initiatives. The Executive Director ensures that technology investments align with organizational goals, enhance operational efficiency, strengthen cybersecurity, improve customer and employee experiences, and support innovation.

Reporting directly to the President/Chief Executive Office, the Executive Director serves as a trusted advisor to executive leadership and the Board of Directors on technology strategy, governance, risk management, and emerging technologies.

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute the organization's enterprise technology strategy aligned with the strategic plan.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives that improve business processes, customer service, and organizational performance.
• Advise executive leadership on technology trends, innovation, and investment opportunities.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Information Technology Operations

• Direct the planning, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise technology infrastructure, applications, networks, cloud services, and end-user computing.
• Ensure reliable, secure, and cost-effective IT operations.
• Establish and monitor IT service levels and performance metrics.
• Oversee disaster recovery, business continuity, and system availability.

Cybersecurity and Risk Management

• Develop and maintain a comprehensive cybersecurity program.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• Identify and mitigate technology risks through governance, security controls, and regular assessments.
• Lead incident response planning and cybersecurity awareness initiatives.

Data and Information Management

• Promote enterprise data governance and data quality initiatives.
• Support data analytics, business intelligence, and reporting capabilities.
• Ensure appropriate management, privacy, and security of organizational data.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the annual IT operating and capital budgets.
• Evaluate technology investments and vendor contracts to maximize value.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies.

Vendor and Project Management

• Negotiate and manage relationships with technology vendors and service providers.
• Oversee enterprise technology projects from planning through implementation.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet business objectives.

Leadership and Talent Development

• Recruit, develop, mentor, and retain high-performing IT professionals.
• Build an inclusive, collaborative, and customer-focused IT organization.
• Establish performance expectations and professional development opportunities.

Governance and Compliance

• Establish IT governance frameworks, policies, and standards.
• Present technology strategies, performance metrics, and risk assessments to executive leadership and the Board.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

Required Education

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, Business Administration, or a related field.

Preferred Education

• Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Information Systems, Computer Science, Healthcare Administration, or a related discipline.

Experience

• 10–15 years of progressively responsible IT leadership experience.
• At least 5 years in a senior executive or enterprise IT leadership role.
• Demonstrated success leading digital transformation and enterprise technology initiatives.
• Experience managing multimillion-dollar IT budgets and large, cross-functional teams.

Preferred Certifications

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• ITIL Foundation or ITIL Managing Professional
• Certified in Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
• Certified Chief Information Officer (CCIO) or equivalent executive leadership credential

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strategic planning and organizational leadership
• Enterprise architecture and technology strategy
• Cybersecurity and risk management
• Cloud computing and infrastructure modernization
• Data governance and analytics
• IT governance frameworks
• Budgeting and financial management
• Vendor and contract negotiation
• Change management and organizational development
• Excellent communication and executive presentation skills
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
• Ability to build relationships across all levels of the organization

Key Competencies

• Visionary Leadership
• Strategic Thinking
• Business Acumen
• Innovation
• Collaboration
• Integrity and Accountability
• Customer Focus
• Executive Presence
• Talent Development