What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Information Technology position at MS Dept of Rehabilitation Services?
This incumbent will serve as the Director of Information Technology for Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS). The IT Director will oversee and manage the agency's information technology systems and services. This leadership position will ensure the development, implementation, and maintenance of technology strategies that support the agency's objectives and ensure compliance with relevant federal and state regulations and policies. The IT Director will work closely with senior leadership and external partners to ensure that technology solutions are reliable, secure, and meet the evolving needs of agency services. Performs related work as assigned. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include: • Provide guidance and training to IT staff, promoting professional development and a high level of technical expertise within the team. • Oversight of IT operations to support the delivery of agency services in 45 statewide offices. • Develop and implement the agency's IT strategy, aligning it with organizational goals and priorities. • Manage the IT department, including personnel, budgets, and resources, ensuring efficient and effective operations. • Oversee the planning, design, and implementation of IT infrastructure, systems, and applications to support state operations and services. • Ensure the security and integrity of agency data, systems, and networks, including implementing cybersecurity measures and responding to incidents in compliance with federal and state regulations. • Collaborate with department heads and external vendors to understand and address technology needs, providing expertise and recommendations. • Develop policies, procedures, and standards related to IT governance, data management, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations (e.g., data privacy laws, accessibility standards). • Monitor relevant national laws, rules, and regulations that may impact agency services. Prepare clear, sound, accurate, and informative reports containing findings, conclusions, and policy recommendations. • Manage the IT budget, ensuring cost-effective technology solutions and adherence to financial constraints. • Monitor and evaluate the performance of IT systems and services, implementing improvements and upgrades as necessary. • Provide leadership in the development of disaster recovery and business continuity plans, ensuring minimal disruption of services during emergencies. • Lead efforts for innovation in technology, identifying new tools, software, and practices that improve efficiency and service delivery. • Establish and maintain relationships with external technology vendors, contractors, and service providers. • Stay updated on emerging technologies, trends, and best practices, applying them to the state's IT strategy when appropriate. • Oversee and monitor all personnel matters, performance, and professional development for IT staff and managers. • Appropriately apply state procurement policies for IT contracts, products, and services. • Regularly assess user satisfaction and monitor processes in place to ensure efficiency and excellent customer service.
What you'll need to be Successful
• In-depth knowledge of IT infrastructure, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and enterprise-level software and systems. • Strong experience with government IT operations, including familiarity with state regulations, compliance requirements, and public sector procurement processes. • Proven ability to manage large-scale IT projects and budgets. • Strong leadership skills with experience managing teams and working with cross-functional departments. • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills. • Familiarity with government systems, data security practices, and disaster recovery planning. • Ability to navigate complex government structures and interact with diverse stakeholders, including public officials, department leaders, and citizens. • Ability to lead managerial/supervisory teams and operational staff successfully to meet overall goals. • Attention to detail and ability to interpret relevant policies and laws. • Effective verbal and written communication skills. • Application of problem solving/decision-making skills, independent thinking, and sound judgement. • Application of data analysis to evaluate service delivery, program outcomes and strategic plans. • Ability to assess training needs and establish training programs/plans. • Development of proposals and plans for strategic and impactful change. • Tenacity for a work in a fast-paced environment and with adaptability to ever-changing conditions. • Professionalism that exhibits an ability to work well with others, maintain personal integrity and integrity expected of state employees, but that asserts oneself as necessary. • Excellent customer service skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree and 10-12 years of IT experience in multiple functions and IT leadership roles.