Chief Information Officer

Town of Concord; Concord (MA); On-site; USD 129,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Concord is seeking a Chief Information Officer to lead the IT Department. This role involves strategic leadership and oversight of municipal IT operations, including cybersecurity and infrastructure management. Ideal candidates will possess extensive IT experience in a public sector environment and hold a Master's degree in a relevant field. This full-time, on-site position offers a competitive salary and benefits package, contributing significantly to the town's technology strategies.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Complete Benefits Package

Qualifications

• Minimum of ten years of progressive IT experience.
• Five years in a senior leadership role.
• Public sector experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all IT operations and guiding cybersecurity.
• Develop IT Governance framework and technology strategy.
• Collaborate with other departments to align IT services with town needs.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Strategic Planning

Communication

Education

Master's Degree in Computer Science or related field

Job description

Chief Information Officer

The Town of Concord is seeking an experienced, strategic leader to serve as Chief Information Officer. Reporting directly to the Town Manager and serving as a member of the senior management team, this role oversees all IT operations – guiding cybersecurity, infrastructure, municipal systems, and technology strategy Town-wide.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic planner, problem-solver, and communicator with strong technical expertise and a deep understanding of information systems in a municipal or public sector environment. Candidates should possess a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field, and have at least ten years of progressive experience in IT, with five or more in a senior leadership or management role. Familiarity with public sector systems, cybersecurity best practices, and a commitment to inclusive, transparent technology management are essential.

The anticipated hiring range for this position is $129,126.40 (Step 1) to $154,318.00 (Step 10) per year, based on qualifications and experience. The full salary range for this position, in accordance with the Town’s Classification and Compensation Plan, is $129,126.40 (Step 1) to $180,772.80 (Step 18) per year.

This is a full-time, on-site* position, with a complete benefits package. We encourage candidates to explore our health insurance and other benefits that support the well-being of our employees and their families (https://concordma.gov/3540/Benefits).

Applications will continue to be accepted until filled. All applications will be reviewed, and the most highly qualified candidates will be invited to one or more interviews and/or other assessments. Applicants will be notified of their standing in the process as soon as a decision has been made regarding their individual application.

Appointment of the final candidate will be contingent upon the results of pre-placement conditions including criminal and motor vehicle record checks, a credit check, and a drug screening. Costs for these pre-placement requirements will be borne by the Town.

The Town of Concord, MA is an EEO Employer. We value diversity and welcome candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

*Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.

Department: Information Technology Salary Grade: 17 Reports to: Town Manager FLSA Status: Exempt Appointed By: Town Manager Date: October 2024

GENERAL SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Town Manager, and as a member of the Town’s Senior Management Team, provides strategic leadership and vision to plan, organize, and administer the activities of the Town’s Information Technology (IT) Department and the Minuteman Media Network. Works collaboratively and proactively with numerous Town departments and stakeholders, each of whom have common as well as unique/diverse business and application needs. Responsible for maintaining and improving upon the efficiency and effectiveness of all areas under the direction and control of the position. Performs varied and responsible duties requiring a thorough knowledge of departmental operations and the exercise of judgment and initiative in completing tasks, particularly in situations not clearly defined by precedent or established procedures. Incumbent is called upon to handle a significant amount of details, each varying from the other in substance and content, requiring incumbent to approach workload with flexibility.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who are or become disabled as defined under the Americans With Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the essential job functions (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case-by-case basis.
Provides strong, collaborative, forward-thinking and responsive leadership in the planning, development, implementation, maintenance, and management of the Town’s technology programs and services in accordance with the directives of the Town Manager. Develops, recommends, and implements an effective IT Governance framework, technology strategy and standards. Reviews, evaluates, and monitors service delivery methods and systems.
Assists with the management of outsourced service providers and other vendors in order to leverage technology that will maximize efficiencies to all Town employees and will enhance the delivery of government services to residents and the general public. Keeps the Town Manager informed of department activities and operations.
Participates as a member of the Town’s Senior Management Team to serve as a technical consultant and to assist the Town Manager in developing and disseminating Town-wide management plans, strategies, initiatives, values, and standards of behavior. Implements, reviews, and enforces information technology policies, standards, procedures, and systems as necessary to ensure the security and efficiency of the Town’s technology, and support the Town’s business goals.
Collaborates with department heads to design IT systems that meet department needs, align with the mission and strategic priorities of the Town, and incorporate IT and security best practices. Regularly meets with management staff and employee committees to provide input, coordinate services, and receive guidance. Provides advice and suggested actions based on analyses of costs, value and risk.
Develops and supports systems and policies required by law or regulation, including electronic transmittal, encryption, retention, and archiving of historical, public, and confidential records. In coordination with appropriate third-party experts and internal stakeholders, develops and implements appropriate controls for cybersecurity risk, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of Town data and systems.
Develops and implements appropriate Business Continuity Planning, including IT Disaster Recovery plans, high availability systems, and backup of the Town network, systems, and records.
Oversees the development, implementation, and maintenance of the multi-year Municipal Technology Plan, and formulates and coordinates the IT Department’s work plans. Actively supports and manages the Town’s efforts to consolidate, integrate, and expand all IT services.
Effectively communicates the status of projects and initiatives, incorporating the needs of the Town and departments into the design and prioritization of projects. Effectively manages a mix of IT staff, department stakeholders, and external vendors to quickly and cost-effectively implement these initiatives.
Assists all Town departments in the evaluation of all software and technology purchases, including consolidation and integration of new technologies, research and evaluation of hardware and software for compatibility, serviceability, design, and performance. Directs the implementation of these projects, ensuring that effective project management techniques are utilized.
Oversees the development and implementation of Town-wide technology training and learning management systems, including general technology and cybersecurity training for Town employees, application-specific training, as well as specialized role-appropriate training for IT Staff. Works with HR and Town departments to develop effective change management initiatives and training for Town employees.
Develops and recommends the Town’s technology budget to the Town Manager; administers approved funds effectively in accordance with town policies and procedures and within the adopted budget. May advise on IT-related budget needs of individual departments.
Directly supervises internal IT staff as well as outsourced service providers and other vendors in order to leverage technology that will maximize efficiencies to all Town employees and will enhance the delivery of government services to residents and the general public. Keeps the Town Manager informed of department activities and operations.

Minuteman Media Network (MMN)
Under direction of the Town Manager and in collaboration with the PEG Access Advisory Committee (PAAC), provides strong, collaborative, forward-thinking and responsive leadership in the planning, development, implementation, maintenance, and management of Concord’s Minuteman Media Network. Develops, recommends, and implements operational frameworks and standard practices. Reviews, evaluates, and monitors service delivery methods and systems.
Directly supervises internal MMN staff as well as outsourced service providers and other vendors in order to leverage technology that will enhance the delivery of services to residents, staff and interested parties.
Solicits input from the community to help guide the programming and services offered on the MMN channels.
Coordinates with the Town Manager’s Office (TMO) and other Town staff to ensure the media coverage of in-person, virtual, and hybrid public meetings. Develops policies and procedures that ensure recordings are available in a reasonably expeditious manner. Oversees planning of Town Meeting media coverage.
Works with Concord Public Schools to provide media services and allow participation in the operations and production of media.
Develops and recommends the annual fiscal budget to the Town Manager.

Additional Functions – All IT Divisions & Departments
Manages the development, performance measurement, negotiation, and support of vendor contracts and agreements.
Represents the Town and its technology or service issues to outside organizations, including state and national organizations. Attends and makes presentations at various public and staff meetings and seminars.
Manages hardware and software inventories, including license compliance.
Consults and engages industry experts, consultants, and peer groups for assistance and collaboration related to existing and proposed new systems.
Responds to major system emergencies and planned off-hour system installation/upgrades.
Performs other related duties as required, directed or as the situation dictates.
Regular attendance and punctuality at the workplace is required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
Oversees all administrative and technical operations of the divisions and directly supervises the activities and performance of the IT Department. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with Town policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; demonstrating and enforcing equitability and inclusivity; evaluating performance; addressing complaints and resolving problems; and making recommendations to the Town Manager concerning employee hiring, rewards or discipline.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or a related field, with at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in information technology, of which five or more are at a management level, involving systems planning, operations, training, programming, budget management, and procurement. Public sector IT experience preferred.
Valid motor vehicle operator’s license, with a safe driving record.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
Superior skills as a project manager, strategic thinker, and visionary strategic planner. Highly organized with proven ability to effectively execute and complete multiple projects simultaneously. Excellent leadership skills and ability to develop productive relationships with diverse groups of stakeholders. Ability to understand business needs, plan and articulate a vision and strategy, and cooperatively lead others in accomplishing these goals.
Excellent computer skills and well-versed in a wide spectrum of information technologies, including insight into current IT trends, best practices, advancements, and their effective use in municipal environments. Strong background and knowledge of business software systems, including municipal applications. Working knowledge of application software, programming, and operating systems. Demonstrated knowledge and experience in infrastructure design, development, and administration.
Productive and competent supervisor with ability to effectively direct staff and promote professional growth.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to clearly articulate and deliver messages in verbal and written form to Town government, business leaders, and the general community.
Ability to work well under pressure, to reject the stop-gap fix, and approach problems with lasting, cost-effective strategies.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who are or become disabled as defined under the Americans With Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the physical demands (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case-by-case basis.
Normal office environment, not subject to extreme variations of temperature, noise, odors, etc. Majority of work is performed in a moderately noisy work environment, with frequent interruptions. Occasional periods requiring sustained uncomfortable positions such as bending and kneeling. Employee may infrequently lift and/or move objects weighing up to 50 pounds such as monitors, printers, scanners, etc. Frequently subjected to the demands of other individuals and the volume and/or rapidity with which tasks must be accomplished. Limited off-site travel required to attend meetings and seminars.
Operates computer, printer, video display terminal, facsimile machine, photocopier, telephone, and all other standard office equipment requiring eye-hand coordination and finger dexterity. Balancing, crouching, grasping, pulling, reaching, and stooping may also be required.
Requires extended and non-standard work hours to attend evening meetings, respond to major system emergencies, and conduct planned system installation and upgrades.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to do this job. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.