What are the responsibilities and job description for the Managing Director, Information Technology position at National Assoc of Counties?
About the Position
The Managing Director of Information Technology plays a critical role in shaping and executing NACo’s long-term technology strategy in alignment with the organization’s mission and priorities. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role leads the IT function and is responsible for infrastructure, cybersecurity, enterprise applications, and data management.
This position requires a strategic leader who can drive innovation while ensuring reliable day-to-day operations. The Managing Director will guide NACo’s use of cloud platforms, data, and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve internal operations and member services. The role also serves as a key advisor to senior leadership on technology investments, risks, and opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategy & Leadership
- Develop and execute a multi-year technology roadmap aligned with NACo’s mission and organizational goals
- Serve as a strategic partner to senior leadership, ensuring technology supports operational and member-facing priorities
- Lead digital transformation efforts, including responsible adoption of AI and automation
- Establish clear priorities, performance expectations, and accountability within the IT team
- Foster a culture of service, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Technology & Innovation
- Identify, evaluate, and deploy emerging technologies, including AI-powered tools to improve internal workflows and member-facing services
- Guide the responsible use of AI tools, including governance, risk management, and appropriate use standards
- Partner with internal teams to improve systems and workflows
- Ensure new solutions are scalable, secure, and aligned with organizational needs
Infrastructure & Systems Management
- Oversee IT infrastructure, including cloud environments (Azure), networking, and endpoint management systems (e.g., MDM, ATP)
- Ensure systems are secure, reliable, and scalable to support organizational growth
- Direct the management of enterprise applications, including Microsoft Dynamics 365, the E-Index and data integration platforms
- Maintain inventory of all materially significant technical equipment (e.g., laptops, input devices, peripherals, network equipment, digital equipment, cameras, external storage devices, etc.)
Data & Enterprise Applications
- Develop and govern NACo’s data strategy to strengthen analytics, reporting and data-driven decision-making across the organization
- Ensure data integrity, accuracy and effective integration across enterprise systems
- Partner with NACo departments to align technology systems with operational needs and improve efficiency
Cybersecurity, Risk & Compliance
- Lead NACo’s cybersecurity program aligned with recognized frameworks such as NIST or CIS Oversee risk management, disaster recovery and business continuity planning
- Conduct annual penetration testing and vulnerability assessments to ensure the integrity of NACo’s cybersecurity defenses and identify areas for improvement
- Lead annual tabletop exercises to simulate potential cybersecurity incidents and test NACo’s incident response and business continuity plans
- Ensure the organization remains compliant with industry standards while proactively addressing emerging security challenges
- Oversee third-party and vendor security considerations
Vendor & Financial Management
- Establish and manage strategic vendor partnerships and oversee contract negotiations to optimize service quality and cost
- Establish standards for technology procurement and evaluation
- Develop and manage the IT budget to optimize performance, cost-efficiency and value
Additional Responsibilities
- Oversee the technical integration of all NACo software applications and partners with unit business owners on their procurement and maintenance of these systems to ensure compliance with NACo software and development standards
- Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or a related field (Master’s preferred)
- 8-10 or more years of progressive IT leadership experience Experience leading technology strategy and digital transformation
- Proven ability to align technology strategies with organizational mission and OKRs, driving innovation and operational excellence
- Deep knowledge in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity frameworks, cloud platforms (Azure) and enterprise data management (D365)
- Expertise in managing cybersecurity risk, regulatory compliance and implementing proactive threat management solutions
- Skilled in leveraging data analytics and governance to support member services, organizational insights and decision-making processes
- Ability to collaborate across departments and with senior leadership to ensure that technology initiatives contribute directly to NACo’s top-line objectives
- Experience managing IT budgets, vendors and cross-functional initiatives in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Attributes:
- Experience managing teams of 5 or more IT professionals
- Familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Power Platform
- Proven track record in association, membership, or government/public sector organizations
- Strong communication skills with ability to present technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and board leadership
- Ability and willingness to travel to support NACo conferences and events
Location and Travel:
This position is located in Washington, D.C. but eligible for a hybrid work schedule and requires travel for NACo conferences, meetings and partner engagements.
Salary Range: $170,000 - $185,000 commensurate with experience and available resources
Salary : $170,000 - $185,000