General Manager Information Technology (IT)

Position Overview:

The General Manager of Information Technology (IT) will oversee the strategic direction, implementation, and management of all IT operations across the organization, serving 1500 employees across 16 divisions. This senior role requires a visionary leader who can align the IT infrastructure with the company's overall business goals and objectives. They will work closely with other senior leaders to ensure that technology solutions are efficient, secure, and scalable, supporting business continuity and growth.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning & Leadership:

1. Develop a thorough understanding of our industry as well as our business processes to leverage IT in identifying and implementing efficiencies.
2. Develop and execute an IT strategy aligned with business objectives and growth plans.
3. Lead a team of IT professionals and manage cross-divisional technology needs across 16 divisions.
4. Oversee the design, implementation, and management of IT policies and procedures to ensure optimal performance, security, and regulatory compliance.
5. Provide leadership in the planning, development, and execution of large-scale IT projects, ensuring they meet deadlines and budget requirements.
6. Work closely with senior management to recommend new technologies and innovations that drive business success and improve efficiency.

Infrastructure & Operations Management:

1. Oversee the company's IT infrastructure, ensuring high availability, security, and scalability for all systems.
2. Ensure data security and integrity across all systems and applications.
3. Manage and optimize cloud services, on-premise infrastructure, and enterprise applications.
4. Oversee disaster recovery and business continuity plans to safeguard critical systems and data.

Team Development & Management:

1. Manage, mentor, and develop IT team members, including system administrators, network engineers, developers, and IT support staff.
2. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement within the IT department.
3. Oversee training programs to ensure the IT staff are equipped with the latest technical skills and certifications.
4. Ensure proper staffing levels, resource allocation, and project prioritization within the IT department.

Technology Innovation & Integration:

1. Identify and evaluate emerging technologies and trends to maintain a competitive edge in the industry.
2. Lead efforts to integrate IT systems across divisions to streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and reduce costs.
3. Oversee enterprise software solutions and ensure their alignment with business requirements.

Vendor & Budget Management:

1. Manage relationships with IT vendors, service providers, and contractors to ensure effective and cost-efficient solutions.
2. Develop and manage the IT department's budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to meet operational needs and strategic initiatives.
3. Ensure cost-effective purchasing of hardware, software, and IT services, while maintaining the highest standards of quality and performance.

Security & Compliance:

1. Lead IT security initiatives, ensuring the protection of the organization’s data, systems, and network infrastructure.
2. Oversee cybersecurity strategy, including threat monitoring, risk assessments, and mitigation strategies.
3. Ensure compliance with relevant industry regulations, including PIPEDA and other data protection standards.

Qualifications:

Education:

1. Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related field.

Experience:

1. At least 10 years of progressive experience in IT leadership, with a minimum of 5 years in a senior management position.
2. Proven experience managing IT operations in large, complex organizations (1000+ employees).
3. Extensive experience with enterprise systems, IT infrastructure, cloud services, VOIP, network architecture and cybersecurity.
4. Strong knowledge of IT governance, risk management, compliance standards, and budgeting.
5. Experience leading cross-functional teams and collaborating with executives to drive technology initiatives.

Skills & Abilities:

1. Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and build relationships at all levels of the organization.
2. Ability to think strategically and translate business needs into IT solutions.
3. In-depth understanding of IT architecture, software development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity principles.
4. Proven ability to manage large-scale IT projects, including budgeting, resource management, and stakeholder communication.
5. Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to handle multiple competing priorities effectively.

Additional Requirements:

1. Valid driver’s license.
2. Ability to travel to different company divisions or locations.
3. Ability to work in an office setting and interact with staff in person or remotely as needed.

This position is ideal for a dynamic and strategic leader who thrives in a fast-paced, growing environment and has the expertise to guide the IT department to the next level of performance and innovation.