Strategic IT Planning & Operations Director

Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 233,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

Penn State is seeking an experienced Senior Director of Planning and Management to lead four integrated functions—PMO, Business Operations, Vendor and Contract Management, and Service Standards—as part of the IT operating model. The role reports to the Deputy CIO and defines governance, standards, and service delivery across the organization.

The position emphasizes collaboration with Service Owners, IT Strategic Partners, and senior leadership to drive efficiency, compliant vendor strategies,

Qualifications

• Progressive leadership experience in IT operations, service management, and program/project governance.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams in a complex university environment.
• Strong knowledge of ITSM, governance, service delivery, and best practices.
• Experience managing vendor relationships, contracts, and performance metrics.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and influence without direct authority.

Responsibilities

• Lead project and program delivery governance and establish standards for PMO.
• Lead IT communications strategy and ensure professional messaging across stakeholders.
• Manage business operations and administrative support services to enable leadership and organizational effectiveness.
• Oversee enterprise vendor and contract management, negotiation, performance, and risk mitigation.
• Define and evolve IT service management frameworks and operating standards for consistent delivery.
• Govern and enable standards adoption through tools, training, and practitioner resources.
• Build and lead high-performing cross-functional teams across PMO, operations, and vendor management.
• Support Service Owners and IT Strategic Partners with delivery, governance, and vendor intelligence.

Skills

Strategic leadership

ITSM knowledge

Governance

Vendor management

Program/project management

Communication

Education

Master's Degree

Job description

Penn State is seeking an experienced Senior Director of Planning and Management to lead four integrated functions—PMO, Business Operations, Vendor and Contract Management, and Service Standards—as part of the IT operating model. The role reports to the Deputy CIO and defines governance, standards, and service delivery across the organization.

The position emphasizes collaboration with Service Owners, IT Strategic Partners, and senior leadership to drive efficiency, compliant vendor strategies,