Director of Information Technology

• Provide executive level strategic direction, guidance, management and coordination to the Utility as a member of the leadership team to fulfill the utility’s strategic plans and objectives.
• Participate in the organizational strategic planning process including development, communication and implementation of short and long-term plans.
• Set policy and direction for the Information Technology Division; working closely with the RPU executive team to achieve key objectives and determine future information technology needs.
• Evaluate and maintain application development, computing, networking, communications, data analytics, security and geographic information systems.
• Provide strategic direction to the development and implementation of a comprehensive data analytics environment.
• Oversee operational activities for the purpose of providing an efficient, responsive, and cost-effective foundation for processing and delivery of information including electronic data.
• Select and deliver high-quality computer applications in a cost-effective manner which is met through systems development, partnerships with department technology staff, and purchasing systems developed by outside vendors, and contracting with technology consultants.
• Direct the development of IT policies and procedures to ensure efficient and secure systems.
• Provide technical oversight in the evaluation of new changing technologies to improve service, costs, and meet long-term objectives. Recommend solutions that maximize return on investments.
• Clearly and consistently communicate with stakeholders in a responsive and focused manner.
• Provide general guidance to assist section managers in carrying out and coordinating their assigned responsibilities.
• Provide cross functional collaboration with other RPU Divisions Directors to ensure fulfillment of RPU strategic objective, mission, and priorities.   

• Establish documented practices, procedures and standards for the division, as well as set the priorities within the division, to accomplish objectives and implement policies established by the RPU Executive Team.
• Prepare personnel, capital and operating budgets; exercise effective management control to adhere to adopted budgets and recommend budget adjustments when required.
• Recommend changes, where needed, to improve performance of existing areas and/or to accomplish additional functions.
• Design and implement programs, initiatives, and policies that promote RPU culture.
• Direct the IT project management process to identify, prioritize, resource, manage execution and delivery of software, hardware solutions or developed solutions to support the Utilities operational and strategic objectives.
• Direct the development and delivery of business analysis services to the Utility. Support the identification of business and needs, exiting solutions and capabilities.  Work with other City departments to ensure strategic alignment and the utilization of existing assets and skills and the alignment of solutions across the city.
• Function as RPU’s National Energy Regulatory Commission (NERC) designated Senior Manager in directing the Utilities compliance with the NERC Critical Infrastructure Program (CIP) requirements. This includes overseeing the adoption, implementation and execution of policies and procedures, documentation of evidence to ensure compliance with NERC/CIP rules and regulations, delegation of and ensuring completion of all compliance related NERC/CIP tasks, responsibility for periodic internal and external compliance and IT Security audits, and monitoring and remaining current on new and proposed NERC compliance changes that may impact RPU. Provide technical direction to ensure compliance with Payment Card Industry (PCI) IT security and PCI rules and regulations.
• Analyze proposed changes to federal, state and local laws, regulations and rules and determine the related impact on RPU; work with other staff to develop strategy in terms of providing information to key decision makers.
• Ensure compliance with Minnesota State data practices act and RPU Board confidentiality policies.
• Lead the implementation and maintenance of IT Security to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of RPU technology and information assets. This includes the development and enforcement of security best practices. Supporting the ongoing security awareness and employee training. System monitoring, patching and proactive remediation of potential vulnerabilities. Maintenance and testing of comprehensive backup systems, incident response plans, and business continuity plans.

• Apply organizational and leadership practices to the periodic analysis and evaluation of work programs, procedures, policies, and operational needs of Department functions.
• Create performance metrics to ensure the achievement of goals and objectives.
• Conduct Departmental leadership team meetings to facilitate information sharing, development of team goals and objectives, work through key decisions and/or issues affecting the Department and focus on employee development.
• Actively participate on the RPU Executive Team and collaborate with the Departmental employees in setting and fulfilling the RPU’s strategic plans and objectives.
• Foster a collaborative leadership style that encourages inclusion, teamwork, promotes staff initiative, and provides professional growth opportunities for all departmental employees.
• Develop and implement effective employee coaching and performance management strategies to ensure the achievement of organizational priorities and to create an environment that encourages innovation, teamwork, employee engagement, fiscal responsibility, and high-quality work.
• Oversee the recruitment, hiring, and orientation processes for new employees and ensure strategies are implemented to obtain and maintain a diverse workforce.
• Prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion in the recruitment, hiring and development of a diverse workforce.

Salary : $140,195 - $200,280