IT Leader for Regulated Manufacturing

Vaco; Apex (NC); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Vaco by Highspring seeks a Head of Information Technology to lead IT and OT functions in a regulated manufacturing setting. You will shape strategy, oversee cybersecurity, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive digital transformation with close collaboration with engineering, quality, and operations teams.

The role demands hands-on leadership, strong communication, and the ability to influence across departments while supporting critical business operations beyond standard hours when needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in IT/CS/Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive IT/manufacturing technology experience.
• Experience in regulated industries such as life sciences, healthcare, or advanced manufacturing.
• Broad experience across infrastructure, applications, manufacturing systems, and end-user tech.
• Experience leading technology teams and managing external service providers.
• Experience with MES/ERP and production-related business applications.

Responsibilities

• Oversee IT operations including infrastructure, networks, end-user computing, and service delivery.
• Lead manufacturing technology platforms and production support systems.
• Serve as liaison between business stakeholders and centralized IT/app teams.
• Ensure regulatory, quality, and security compliance across systems.
• Recruit, develop, and lead a high-performing technology team; manage budgets and vendor relations.
• Drive continuous improvement through technology modernization and digital initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic planning

Independent work

Collaboration across departments

Influence without authority

Education

Bachelor's degree in IT/CS/Engineering

8+ years of IT/manufacturing experience

Regulated industries experience

Experience managing IT teams

Tools

Enterprise infrastructure

Cloud technologies

MES/ERP/production software

OT security & cyber security frameworks

Job description

Vaco by Highspring seeks a Head of Information Technology to lead IT and OT functions in a regulated manufacturing setting. You will shape strategy, oversee cybersecurity, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive digital transformation with close collaboration with engineering, quality, and operations teams.

The role demands hands-on leadership, strong communication, and the ability to influence across departments while supporting critical business operations beyond standard hours when needed.