What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Information Officer position at Kansas City University?
Overview
Kansas City University (KCU) is a renowned institution committed to excellence in education, research, and community engagement. As we continue to advance our mission of fostering knowledge and shaping future leaders, we are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Chief Information Officer (CIO). This pivotal executive leadership role will shape and advance the University’s vision for technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
Founded in 1916, Kansas City University is a fully accredited, private not-for-profit health sciences university with Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, Biosciences, Dental Medicine and Health Professions. With campuses in Kansas City and Joplin, KCU offers multiple graduate degrees: a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine; a Doctor of Psychology in clinical psychology; a Master of Arts in bioethics; a Master of Science in biomedical sciences; a Master of Business Administration in partnership with Rockhurst University; a Master of Public Health in partnership with the University of Nebraska Medical Center; and a Doctor of Dental Medicine in Joplin, MO.
Reporting to the CFO/COO, the Chief Information Officer (CIO) will serve as KCU’s senior technology leader, providing strategic and operational direction across all areas of IT. This individual will develop a unified strategy that integrates information systems, artificial intelligence, academic computing, and distance learning initiatives to strengthen teaching, learning, and overall University operations. The CIO will be instrumental in identifying and implementing innovative solutions that support both new and established academic services throughout KCU.
Responsibilities
- Lead enterprise-wide digital transformation and artificial intelligence initiatives that enhance academic and administrative performance.
- Oversee all aspects of IT infrastructure, systems architecture, applications, and service delivery.
- Ensure strong cybersecurity practices and governance across the University.
- Align IT strategy with institutional priorities through collaboration with senior leadership, faculty, and staff.
- Direct budgeting, performance measurement, and continuous improvement efforts within the IT division.
- Build, develop, and retain a high-performing, service-oriented IT team.
- Assess emerging technologies and implement innovative solutions to advance KCU’s mission and long-term goals.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive IT leadership experience, ideally in higher education.
- Demonstrated experience implementing high-impact AI and digital transformation initiatives.
- Proven expertise in cybersecurity and enterprise-level systems management (Workday experience a plus).
- Strong record of strategic planning, systems integration, and operational excellence in complex organizations.
- Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences, including Executive leadership and the Board of Trustees.
- Experience managing large-scale technology projects and leading teams through organizational change.
OMNI is honored to be retained in this search. We appreciate your referrals to professionals who may have an interest in this outstanding opportunity. Formal interest accepted through the OMNI Executive Career Portal. Please direct all inquiries to:
OMNI Human Resource Solutions
Michelle Anderson, Vice President of Executive Search – manderson@omnihrm.com
OMNI and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers.