Director, Technology and Information Security

About the role

The Director, Technology and Information Security serves as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), providing strategic leadership and oversight for all technology, information systems, and cybersecurity initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develops and champions the district's overall technology vision and strategy, aligning it with the educational mission and long-term goals.
  • Identifies emerging technologies, forecasts future technology needs, and recommends innovative solutions to enhance teaching, learning, and administrative effectiveness.
• Develops and implements a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy to protect the district's data and systems.
  • Conducts risk assessments, implements security controls, provides cybersecurity training, establishes incident response plans, and stays current on evolving cyber threats.
• Oversees the management and maintenance of the district's information systems, including databases, applications, and other software.
  • Ensures data integrity, availability, and confidentiality by implementing data governance policies and procedures and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations.
• Oversees the design, installation, configuration, maintenance, and security of the district's data, voice, and video network infrastructure.
  • Manages network systems, ensures reliable internet access, implements robust network security protocols, and monitors for security breaches.
• Performs capacity planning and performance tuning to optimize network performance and uptime.
  • Maintains day-to-day operations of the IT department, including budget administration, resource allocation, vendor management, and contract negotiations.
• Serves as a liaison between the district and external stakeholders, including technology vendors, service providers, regulatory agencies, and cybersecurity organizations.
  • Communicates effectively with district leadership staff, and community to provide updates, address concerns, and ensure alignment on technology and security initiatives.
• Provides leadership, supervision, and technical guidance to IT and security professionals.
  • Hires, trains, performs performance management, and develops professional development for high-performing and collaborative teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field AND three (3) years of progressive experience in IT leadership roles, demonstrating expertise in: Network infrastructure management (design, implementation, maintenance, security), Cybersecurity management (risk assessment, security controls, incident response), Information systems management (databases, applications, data governance), strategic technology planning and budget management; OR any equivalent combination of education and experience that would provide the above noted knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Experience in a K-12 educational environment preferred.

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of computer network domains, technologies, and protocols, including network performance tuning techniques.
• Expertise in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of network devices such as routers, Ethernet switches, wireless access points, VPN concentrators, and firewalls.
• Comprehensive knowledge of cybersecurity principles, practices, and technologies. This includes expertise in risk assessment, security controls, incident response, vulnerability management, and security awareness training.
• Familiarity with current and emerging cyber threats and attack vectors.
• Strong understanding of information systems management principles, including database administration, application management, data governance, and data privacy best practices. Knowledge of system backup and recovery procedures and techniques.
• Knowledge of strategic technology planning principles and practices, including budget preparation and administration, project planning and management, and resource allocation.
• Familiarity with pertinent local, state, and federal laws, ordinances, codes, and rules related to technology, data privacy, and security (e.g., FERPA, CIPA, etc.).
• Knowledge of current trends and best practices in educational technology and its integration into the instructional process.
• Understanding of district and department policies and procedures, including those related to technology use, data security, and acceptable use.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of safety management and office procedures, methods, and equipment, including standard office software applications.
• Proven ability to provide effective supervision, mentorship, and guidance to assigned staff.
• Skill in building and motivating high-performing teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically about technology and cybersecurity.
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic technology plans and budgets.
• Proven expertise in network infrastructure management, cybersecurity, and information systems management.
• Proficiency in operating computers and relevant software applications.
• Ability to identify, analyze, and resolve complex technical and security issues.
• Skilled in making sound decisions under pressure.
• Skilled in planning, organizing, and managing technology projects effectively.
• Ability to conduct research and analyze information to stay current on technological trends and emerging threats.