What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head of Information Technology position at Search Services?
ABOUT OUR CLIENT
Our Client is a private equity-backed energy portfolio company based in Houston, TX, with a proven track record of acquiring, developing, and operating assets in the Permian Basin. Backed by a well-capitalized sponsor, the company operates with a lean, fast-moving, and operationally focused team. With a strong appetite for digital enablement, infrastructure modernization, and scalable growth, Our Client is actively investing in upstream assets while positioning its technology function as a key driver of future success.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Head of IT will lead and evolve the company’s technology function, bringing a balance of technical execution, operational leadership, and executive presence. This is a hands-on, high-visibility role with direct influence on business performance and a clear succession path toward a CIO position. The ideal candidate will be equally comfortable designing IT strategy, executing on critical initiatives, and serving as a trusted business partner to the C-suite and field operations.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Own and oversee IT operations and infrastructure, including systems administration, networking, cloud architecture, and cybersecurity
- Align IT strategy with business priorities, acting as a partner to executives and field operations teams
- Manage vendor relationships with MSPs, SaaS providers, and cloud platforms to ensure reliability and performance
- Execute the IT roadmap with a focus on scalability, automation, and digital transformation
- Implement and support core upstream oil and gas applications including land, SCADA, production reporting, and ERP/accounting systems
- Ensure strong data security, governance, and disaster recovery practices are in place
- Collaborate across departments to deliver analytics solutions and user enablement strategies
- Oversee light development and integration efforts with an understanding of the SDLC
- Report IT performance, risks, and initiatives directly to executive leadership and investors
- Lay the foundation for building an enterprise-grade IT function and transition into a CIO role over time
QUALIFICATIONS
- Proven leadership experience in IT operations within a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment
- Strong technical expertise across infrastructure, networking, cybersecurity, and cloud platforms (Azure preferred)
- Background supporting upstream oil and gas or other asset-heavy field operations
- Executive presence with the ability to engage both C-suite leaders and field personnel
- Demonstrated success in delivering IT initiatives aligned with business strategy
- Hands-on execution capability paired with strategic planning skills
- Familiarity with enterprise systems, field applications, and digital enablement best practices
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
- MBA or advanced degree preferred
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience in private equity-backed or entrepreneurial environments
- High business acumen with a strong understanding of IT’s role in value creation
- Ambition to progress into a CIO position with enterprise leadership responsibilities
BENEFITS
- Competitive base salary with performance-based bonus
- Long-term incentive plan or equity opportunity
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Generous PTO and company holidays
- Executive-level visibility and clear succession path toward CIO