Executive Director, IT Operations

Fulton Schools; Atlanta, Northern (GA, KY); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Fulton County Schools is seeking an Executive Director of Information and Technology Operations to lead district-wide IT systems, security, and operational services. You will shape strategy, manage budgets, and oversee data centers, networks, and cloud services while ensuring compliance with FERPA, COPPA, and CIPA.

You will guide a team, collaborate with district leaders, and drive cost-effective, secure technology aligned with educational goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, MIS, or related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• CISSP, CISM, PMP, ITIL, CCNP, Azure Solutions Architect, AWS Solutions Architect, Security+ or VMware certifications preferred.
• Minimum 8 years of progressively responsible IT operations experience; 5+ years in a leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic oversight for enterprise technology systems, security, and operations.
• Oversee district-wide IT operations: data centers, networks, systems, apps, cloud services, and security.
• Develop IT standards, governance, and performance metrics for high-quality operations.
• Lead strategic technology initiatives aligned with district goals.
• Manage budgets, expenditures, and cost optimization; ensure disaster recovery and continuity.
• Collaborate with senior leaders and external partners; report to Deputy CSTO.

Skills

Leadership

IT Operations

Cybersecurity

Budgeting

Project management

Vendor management

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's in IT/CS/MIS

Master's degree preferred

Job description

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The Executive Director of Information and Technology Operations provides leadership and strategic oversight for the District's enterprise technology systems, security, and operational services. This role ensures resilient, efficient, and secure IT operations including data centers, network services, systems administration, application development and management, and cloud services. The incumbent collaborates closely with senior district leadership to align technology strategies with educational and operational goals.

• Serves as a member of the IT Leadership team, contributing to the division's strategy, vision, planning, service delivery, and overall direction
• Oversees district-wide IT operations, including data center management, systems and database administration, infrastructure operations, application development and management, business systems management, integration, cloud services, and IT Security
• Develops and implements enterprise technology standards, governance processes, and performance metrics to ensure high-quality IT operations
• Leads strategic technology initiatives and programs, ensuring alignment with district goals and priorities
• Provides technical expertise and strategic counsel to the Deputy CSTO and senior district leaders
• Drives continuous improvement in infrastructure efficiency, security, and cost-effectiveness
• Collaborates in developing and maintaining district IT security policies, procedures, and compliance protocols (FERPA, COPPA, CIPA etc.)
• Formulates and implements IT standards and procedures, overseeing adherence across the district
• Manages financial aspects of IT operations, including budget preparation, monitoring expenditures, and cost optimization
• Ensures robust disaster recovery and business continuity planning and testing
• Provides accurate and timely reporting to support informed decision-making at all levels of district leadership
• Conducts annual performance appraisals and facilitate professional growth opportunities for assigned staff
• Acts as a primary liaison for district technology initiatives, promoting collaboration among schools, district offices, external agencies, and community partners
• Maintains effective relationships across internal and external stakeholders, enhancing district-wide understanding and support of technology initiatives
• Monitors industry trends and emerging technologies, integrating relevant innovations to enhance district operations
• Adheres strictly to district, state, and federal laws and policies
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Deputy CSTO or appropriate administrator
  

Required Education

Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology Computers Science, Management Information Systems, or other field with a combination of relevant experience in Management Information Systems, Computer Science or A closely related field

Master's Degree preferred

Certification/Licensure

None required

CISSP, CISM, PMP, ITIL, CCNP, Azure Solutions Architect Expert, AWS Solutions Architect, Security+, VMWARE and/or other relevant industry certifications preferred

Experience Qualifications

Minimum 8 years of progressively responsible experience in IT operations, including at least five (5) years in a leadership or supervisory role. Demonstrated success managing enterprise IT operations in educational organizations preferred

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Comprehensive knowledge of current IT trends, best practices, and advanced technologies
• Expertise in infrastructure management, cybersecurity principles, systems administration, and network operations
• Demonstrated capability in managing complex projects, resources, and vendor relationships
• Proven strategic planning and budgeting skills with a track record of optimizing resources and enhancing operational effectiveness
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders

Working Conditions

• Normal office environment

Physical Demands

• Routine physical activity associated with normal office environment

Posting ID: 35315

It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice, educational program, or any other program, activity, or service. If you wish to make a complaint or request accommodation or modification due to discrimination in any program, activity, or service, contact Compliance Coordinator Gonzalo LaCava, 6201 Powers Ferry Rd, NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30339, or phone [phone].TTY 1-800-255-0135.

Fulton County Schools - 6201 Powers Ferry Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30339 - 470-254-3600