Chief Information Officer

Western New England University - Springfield, MA

Full-time - Executive

Springfield, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Western New England University (WNE) is responsible for providing leadership and oversight of the university's IT, cyber-security, technology infrastructure, and support services. The CIO will develop and implement IT policies and strategic plans, ensuring alignment with the university's goals while fostering collaboration across departments. This role requires a blend of technical expertise and leadership skills, with a focus on enhancing student success and operational effectiveness within a vibrant academic environment.

Responsibilities

• Provides vision, leadership, direction, fiscal, and human capital management for the Office of Information Technology.
• Implements an integrated structure for academic, research, and administrative computing.
• Oversees IT services including security, systems, application development, instructional media, networking, telecommunications, and client services.
• Collaborates with technology professionals and advisory groups to develop strategic and tactical planning for information systems.
• Ensures efficient interfacing and compliance with WNE Systems, as well as state and national organizations.
• Oversees and develops IT policies and strategies, including the IT strategic plan aligned with the university's strategic goals.
• Manages annual budgets and works with the Vice President for Finance and Administration on IT priorities and resources.
• Leads security measures for hardware, software, and networks in an intensive university environment.
• Conducts competitive analysis on technology products and services and makes resource-based recommendations.
• Provides data and reports to executive management on technology operations and improvements.
• Solves complex issues related to university technology and manages vendor contracts and purchases.
• Exercises supervisory authority and manages performance for technical and support staff, providing leadership and development opportunities.
• Represents the university on key technology initiatives and committees.
• Acts as the liaison to the WNE community on IT matters.
• Serves as the contact for security, crisis management, regulatory compliance, and all system related matters.

Requirements

• A master's degree is preferred or a bachelor's degree with at least 8-10 years of leadership experience in IT.
• Experience as a proven leader in the information technology field, preferably in a higher education setting.
• A track record of effective supervision, including motivational leadership and proactive staff development.
• A track record of effective engagement and collaboration with the broader campus community, including students, faculty, staff, and administrators.
• History of modeling outstanding customer service.
• Demonstrated awareness of and sensitivity to cultural issues and the needs of a diverse constituency.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise good judgment and decision-making.
• Ability to lead critical analysis of existing processes and make recommendations for improvement.
• Experience developing long-term goals, strategic plans, project plans, and operational policies and procedures.