Director of Information Technology

Summary:

Our client is looking for a Global Director of IT, Infrastructure and Operations (I&O), who combines an entrepreneurial spirit with a good understanding of key IT compliance concepts and IT best practices akin to those of world-class companies. This role is ideal for someone technically versatile, ready to navigate the overlapping roles and fluid responsibilities characteristic of a smaller, leaner company. You will be leading a team of around 10, tasked with maintaining and advancing our IT infrastructure across various platforms. Your ability to juggle hands-on technical work, vendor management, team leadership, and engaging with senior business leaders is vital. We seek a proactive, versatile individual who excels as both a doer and a manager, driving the team towards operational excellence and technological innovation.

This role reports to the CIO and has line management responsibilities for Help/Service Desk, Cloud and Traditional Infrastructure Engineers, and network engineers. The role also has oversight of some aspects of the IT Security Program.

The head of I&O brings experience, knowledge, and future vision for transforming the I&O function including its strategy, operating model, product and service offerings and workforce. The role holder is a senior stakeholder in all relationships with externally sourced infrastructure and operations capabilities.

As a key member of the senior IT leadership team this role contributes to the development and execution of the enterprise-wide IT strategy and is responsible for ensuring I&O strategy is fully aligned, positioning I&O to deliver compelling business value.

Technology used includes:

Azure, Office 365, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Windows servers, VMware infrastructure, Hosted servers and applications (Salesforce.com, Dynamics 365, and bespoke), SD-WAN Architecture, Network Security/Firewalls, Switching, WLAN and SQL Servers. Some legacy systems are still in place. This includes servers running Solaris Unix and IBM I (fka AS/400).

Our client runs several IT Systems across multiple platforms serving a worldwide user base 24/7/365. This role will support users and systems, primarily focused on supporting the Global and U.S. Support Desks. Travel to any of our global offices may be required though seldom.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the IT Infrastructure and Operations team to develop and execute client’s IT Infrastructure and Operations transformation strategy.
• Ensure the efficient and optimized deployment and management of end user computer devices such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices.
• Implement and manage compliance with standards such as NIST/CMMC, ISO270001, PCI, GDPR/CCPA.
• Oversee ITIL best practices in areas such as change management and patch management.
• Manage vendors for purchasing and managed services for network, cloud infrastructure, on-premises infrastructure, cyber security, and database management.
• Oversee the help desk to support end users, utilizing metrics and KPIs to ensure service effectiveness.
• Lead the consolidation of multiple Windows domains and conduct a physical inventory of IT assets.
• Ensure business continuity and disaster recovery strategies are in place and tested regularly.
• Promote and oversee the application of emerging IT trends that can drive business value.
• Ensure IT Infrastructure configured the most optimal, cost effective way
• Troubleshoot problems, as needed
• Foster a culture of innovation, transparency, and accountability in IT.
• Apply project management skills to manage projects and maintain timelines.
• Performs other related duties as assigned, in accordance with business needs and organizational goals.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in computer science, information systems, business administration, related field, or equivalent work experience
• Ten or more years of experience in IT or business/industry
• Demonstrable experience in a management role within IT infrastructure and operations, ideally within a global SMB with high complexity.
• Proven vendor management skills, including purchasing and managing services in areas of network, security, and database management.
• Extensive hands-on experience with Microsoft Stack, Linux, Cloud (Azure preferred, AWS a plus), and SQL Server.
• Practical experience with traditional Active Directory and Azure Active Directory (Entra ID).
• Working knowledge of MFA, SD-WAN (CATO), Cisco Meraki (LAN and WLAN), Microsoft/Office 365, FreshService/ServiceNow, ManageEngine or another UEM tool, and MDM.
• Experience with leveraging Infrastructure as Code.

Preferred Leadership Qualifications:

The leader is responsible for overseeing and managing a team of employees, ensuring efficient operations and high performance. This role involves delegating duties, managing ongoing performance, and overseeing time and attendance using ADP Workforce. The Supervisor will also collaborate with HR on disciplinary actions, hiring, terminations, recruitment, and promotions.

Staff Management:

• Delegate tasks and responsibilities to team members effectively.
• Monitor and evaluate employee performance, providing regular feedback and coaching.
• Manage time and attendance records using ADP Workforce, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Performance Management:

• Conduct performance reviews and set performance goals.
• Identify training and development needs, facilitating appropriate training programs.
• Address performance issues promptly and constructively.

HR Collaboration:

• Work closely with HR on disciplinary actions, ensuring fair and consistent application of policies.
• Participate in the recruitment process, including interviewing and selecting candidates.
• Assist in the onboarding and training of new recruits.
• Manage termination processes in accordance with company policies and legal requirements.

Recruitment and Promotions:

• Identify and attract top talent to the organization.
• Support the promotion process by identifying high-potential employees and providing development opportunities.
• Ensure a fair and transparent promotion process.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in a supervisory or management role.
• Strong understanding of performance management principles.
• Proficiency in using ADP Workforce or similar HR management systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with HR and other departments.

Travel Requirements: This position may require travel globally to client facilities and operation areas, with frequent travel to the corporate office in West Hills, CA.