Director of IT
Position Summary
The Director of Information Technology is a newly elevated, strategic leadership role reporting directly to the CEO. This position is being created to bring senior-level IT vision to the organization as our technology needs grow in complexity, including infrastructure, cybersecurity, enterprise systems, and the responsible adoption of AI across the business.
This position is 100% onsite at our Lake Forest, CA headquarters. Depending on business needs, a hybrid schedule may be considered in the future.
What You'll Do
Develop and own the company's IT strategy and multi-year technology roadmap, aligning investments with business goals and manufacturing operations.
Serve as a trusted technology advisor to the CEO and executive team, translating business needs into practical, well-sequenced technology decisions.
Lead, mentor, and grow the existing IT function, including current IT staff, building structure, career paths, and technical depth where the department has historically been more tactical than strategic.
Own enterprise infrastructure, network, and cybersecurity strategy across headquarters and manufacturing sites, including risk assessment, incident response, and data protection.
Evaluate, select, and oversee core business systems (ERP, MES, and related platforms), ensuring reliability and fit for a multi-site manufacturing environment.
Define a responsible, business-aligned approach to AI adoption, evaluating tools and use cases, setting guardrails in partnership with the executive team, and building organizational readiness.
Bridge IT and operational technology (OT) on the manufacturing floor, partnering with plant leadership on systems that support production, quality, and safety.
Manage the IT budget, vendor relationships, and contract negotiations, ensuring cost-effective and scalable solutions.
Own business continuity and disaster recovery planning across all company locations.
Ensure technology practices support data privacy and regulatory obligations across all operations, partnering closely with executive leadership.
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field; Master's degree a plus
8+ years of progressive IT experience, including at least 3-5 years in a senior IT leadership role
Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment strongly preferred, including familiarity with ERP/MES systems and plant-floor technology
Demonstrated experience developing IT strategy and communicating it to executive leadership and non-technical stakeholders
Working knowledge of enterprise cybersecurity practices and frameworks
Exposure to evaluating or implementing AI tools in a business setting, with sound judgment about risk, data privacy, and appropriate use
Experience supporting multi-site or multi-state operations preferred
A collaborative, people-first leadership style: someone who can develop existing talent, not just direct it
Strong project management and vendor negotiation skills
Physical Requirements And Attendance
Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods while working at a computer.
Ability to operate a computer, keyboard, and other office equipment.
Ability to communicate effectively via phone, video conferencing, and written correspondence.
Ability to lift and carry IT equipment (e.g., printers, monitors, laptops, networking hardware) up to 35 lbs.
Ability to navigate stairs and move between floors/workspaces to set up or troubleshoot equipment.
Occasional bending, reaching, kneeling, or crouching to install, inspect, or repair IT equipment.
Occasional travel between company locations may be required.
Why Join Us
This is a rare opportunity to build a modern IT function from a strong existing foundation, shaping strategy, team development, and technology direction (including AI) at the executive table, in a growing manufacturing company headquartered in Lake Forest, CA.