Director of Information Technology

JOB SUMMARY:

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of IT to lead our Information Technology department for all entities of the Sakata America Holdings (SAH). The Director of IT will be responsible for developing and executing IT strategies to support the company's growth, enhance business performance, and ensure the security, scalability, and efficiency of our technology infrastructure. This role will oversee IT operations, manage a diverse team, and collaborate closely with other business units to drive technological innovation and digital transformation across the organization.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement the company’s IT strategy, aligning it with the overall business objectives.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to prioritize IT initiatives and ensure they meet business needs and goals.
• Lead the digital transformation efforts to modernize and optimize IT systems, processes, and tools.
• Establish a long-term technology roadmap that supports business expansion and scalability.

Team Management:

• Manage, mentor, and develop the IT team, including IT managers, network administrators, system engineers, and support staff.
• Foster a high-performance culture by promoting collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning within the IT department.
• Oversee recruitment, training, and professional development of IT personnel to build a skilled and efficient team.

Infrastructure and Systems Management:

• Ensure the reliability, security, and efficiency of all IT infrastructure, including networks, servers, cloud services, and data centers.
• Oversee the deployment, configuration, and maintenance of enterprise software and hardware systems.
• Drive the design and implementation of disaster recovery and business continuity plans.

Cybersecurity and Compliance:

• Develop and enforce robust cybersecurity strategies to protect sensitive company data, assets, and intellectual property.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA) and internal security policies.
• Stay abreast of emerging security threats and best practices, applying them to the company’s security posture.

Budget and Vendor Management:

• Manage the IT department’s budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources for software, hardware, and services.
• Negotiate with external vendors and service providers, ensuring cost-effective contracts and high-quality service delivery.
• Review and manage IT service agreements, ensuring SLAs are met and services are delivered at a high standard.

Project Management and Innovation:

• Lead major IT projects, ensuring timely delivery, quality control, and budget adherence.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies that could enhance operational efficiencies, productivity, and business growth.
• Drive initiatives in areas such as automation, data analytics, AI, and cloud migration.
• Have knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), ISO standards (i.e. ISO 9001), Sarbanes Oxley (J Sox), 21 CFR 820, among other relevant quality management programs and concepts.

Cross-functional Collaboration:

• As a member of the SAH Senior Management Team (SMT), works directly to develop and implement Information Technology plans to support regional vegetables business strategy.
• Work closely with all members of SMT to understand technology needs across all departments and deliver solutions that support business objectives.

SUPERVISORY DUTIES:

• Indirectly supervises 15 employees within the IT department.
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.
• Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree or relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, PMP) is a plus.
• 15 years of experience in IT leadership roles, with at least 10 years in a director-level position.
• Proven track record of managing large, complex IT infrastructures and leading cross-functional teams.
• Strong experience in digital transformation, cloud solutions, and IT security.
• Expertise in budget management, vendor negotiations, and IT governance.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• This role involves sitting for extended periods, especially when working on a computer, attending virtual meetings, or reviewing documentation.
• Some tasks may require standing or walking around the office or data center to oversee IT infrastructure, meet with team members, or conduct site visits.
• Occasional lifting of equipment or materials (up to 50 lbs) may be required when setting up or maintaining hardware systems.
• This position may be required to travel up to 15% of the time to different Sakata offices throughout the year, some within driving distance.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Deep understanding of IT systems, infrastructure, cloud services, networks, and software development.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities, with a strategic mindset.
• Ability to influence and drive change across the organization.
• Knowledge of current IT trends, emerging technologies, and industry best practices.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• Salary: $180,000-$200,000
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance coverage for employees and their families
• Basic Life & AD&D Insurance
• 401k program with company match
• Profit Sharing program (via 401k)
• Holiday & Performance Incentive Bonus program
• Paid Vacation: 10 days per year to start, increases with tenure
• Sick Leave: 1 hour accrued per 30 hours worked for first 30 days, 6.67 hours per month thereafter.
• 14 paid company holidays, 2 floating holidays & birthday off
• Paid Family Leave: 15 days after 12 months of service for FMLA qualifying events
• Company provided EAP
• Company provided subsidy for health/fitness clubs & apps