Director, Information Management and Information Technology

Job Information

Job Title: Director, Information Management and Information Technology

Job Requisition ID: 62722

Organization: Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner

Location: Edmonton

Full or Part-Time: Full-Time

Hours of Work: 36.25 hours per week

Regular/Temporary: Regular

Scope: Open

Closing Date: September 27, 2024

Classification: Senior Manager Zone 1

Salary: $3,548.95 - $4,842.27 bi-weekly ($92,627.60 - $136,383.25 annually)

About Us

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta (OIPC) is dedicated to advocating for the access and privacy rights of Albertans. It ensures that public bodies, health custodians, and private sector organizations uphold these rights as prescribed by Alberta's laws. The OIPC provides fair, independent, and impartial reviews in a timely and efficient manner.

OIPC is known for its comprehensive regulatory role, proactive engagement with technological advancements, commitment to public education, collaborative culture, and the significant impact of its work in protecting privacy and access to information.

The OIPC is an Officer of the Legislature who reports directly to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta. Through the OIPC, the Commissioner performs the compliance oversight and regulatory responsibilities set out in Alberta’s three access to information and privacy laws:

1. The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP)
2. The Health Information Act (HIA)
3. The Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA)

OIPC is one of the few jurisdictions in Canada with comprehensive laws covering public, private, and health sectors. This unique legal framework provides an unparalleled opportunity for privacy and access practitioners to make a significant impact across diverse fields.

Why OIPC Alberta?

Alberta is rapidly becoming a hub for technological advancements, particularly in AI and data protection. Enjoy a high quality of life with competitive salaries, no provincial sales tax, and affordable housing. Thrive in a growing and diverse economy expanding into various industries where privacy rights matter. Benefit from flexible work arrangements and the stunning natural beauty of the Rockies, offering world-class outdoor activities for an ideal work-life balance.

The OIPC is committed to a diverse and inclusive public service that reflects the population we serve to best meet the needs of Albertans. Consider joining a team where diversity, inclusion, and innovation are valued and supported.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Assistant Commissioner of Strategic Initiatives and Information Management (AC SI&IM), the Director of Information Management and Information Technology (IM/IT) is a strategic leadership role responsible for the development and execution of the OIPC’s IM/IT strategy. This position is key in ensuring that the technological infrastructure, applications, and data management systems are robust, secure, and effectively support the OIPC’s operations and strategic objectives.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and the Information Management and Technology Governance Committee (IMGC), you will drive initiatives that enhance the efficiency, security, and scalability of our information systems, ensuring compliance with Alberta’s privacy laws and optimizing operational performance.

This role is dynamic and hands-on, reflecting the evolving nature of the organization’s IT landscape, including the transition from on-premises IT solutions to cloud-based services. The Director will have autonomy and decision-making authority to shape the IM/IT strategy and directly influence the organization’s technological direction.

Responsibilities

The Director of Information Management and Information Technology (IM/IT) is responsible for leading the strategic direction and operational management of the OIPC's IM/IT functions. This includes developing and executing comprehensive technology strategies, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures, managing vendor relationships, and overseeing multiple IT projects, including the transition from on-premises to cloud-based solutions.

The Director will also be accountable for the management of records and content, budget oversight, and the development and implementation of policies and procedures to support organizational goals.

• Strategic Planning and Implementation: Develop and implement a comprehensive IM/IT strategy that aligns with the OIPC’s business plan and legislative mandates, ensuring technology infrastructure is scalable, secure, and efficient.
• Cybersecurity Leadership: Act as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) responsible for developing and enforcing cybersecurity policies and procedures to protect the OIPC’s information assets and infrastructure.
• Vendor and Contract Management: Oversee the performance of IM/IT vendors, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations, and manage procurement and negotiations related to IM/IT services and products.

Responsibilities Continued

• Application and Cloud Management: Ensure that the OIPC’s suite of applications and cloud services are robust, secure, and user-friendly, supporting the evolving needs of employees and stakeholders.
• Records and Content Management: Lead the records and content management functions to ensure compliance with legislative requirements and efficient handling of information throughout its lifecycle.
• Budget and Resource Management: Collaborate with the AC SI&IM and other senior leaders to identify IM/IT priorities, manage the IM/IT budget, and optimize resource allocation.
• Leadership and Team Development: Lead a multidisciplinary team of IM/IT professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture, and provide guidance and support for professional development.
• Policy Development and Compliance: Develop and implement IM/IT policies and procedures that support the OIPC’s operational and strategic goals, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and best practices.
• Project Management: Oversee multiple IT projects, ensuring timely delivery, budget adherence, and alignment with strategic goals. Provide guidance and support to team members and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
• Transition to Cloud-Based Services: Lead initiatives to transition from on-premises to cloud-based IT solutions, bridging the gap between existing infrastructure and future needs.

Qualifications And Requirements

• A university degree in Information Technology, Information Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of ten years of experience in Information Management and Information Technology, including senior management experience leading multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong knowledge of IT systems, information management principles, and cybersecurity.
• Experience in developing and implementing strategic plans, managing large-scale projects, and leading organizational change.
• Proven experience in vendor management, contract negotiation, and performance monitoring.
• Experience with cloud-based IT solutions and a solid understanding of on-premises IT systems.
• CISO experience or equivalent knowledge in information security management.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to engage and influence a wide range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including team development and performance management.
• Understanding of privacy laws and regulatory requirements, particularly FOIP, HIA, and PIPA.

What We Offer

• A first-year vacation grant for new hires to the Alberta Public Service, plus vacation earned each month.
• Management Vacation supplement: Management employees receive 5 additional work days of vacation at the beginning of each calendar year.
• Paid statutory holidays following Government of Alberta leave directives, including Holiday closure in December.
• Positive workplace culture and work-life balance.
• Opportunity to participate in flexible work arrangements such as working from home (which is currently being piloted) and modified work schedule agreements.
• Comprehensive benefits plan.
• Management Employee Pension plan.
• Health Spending Account (HSA).

Notes

• Final candidates for this position will be asked to undergo a security clearance.
• Hours of Work for this position are 36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

How To Apply:

Candidates are required to apply online. Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining why you want to work for the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner and how your education and experience relates to the qualifications outlined in this job ad. Applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.

Applicants who have completed post-secondary studies from outside of Canada are required to have an evaluation of their credentials from the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) or from a recognized Canadian Credential Evaluator; please visit the Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada for more information. Applicants must include the assessment certificate from IQAS or any other educational assessment service as part of their application in order to be considered.

Closing Statement

We thank all applicants for their interest. All applications will be reviewed to determine which candidates' qualifications most closely match the advertised requirements. Only individuals selected for interviews will be contacted.

If you require any further information on this job posting or a copy of the role profile, please contact Gisele Christensen, Human Resource Advisor, at gchristensen@oipc.ab.ca