IT OPERATIONS MANAGER

Position Title : IT Operations Manager

Posting Number : S068P

Department : Information Technology Services

Position Type : Staff

Job Description : Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced IT professional with a strong business mindset and a drive to optimize technology operations.

This role works directly with the AVP for Information Technology Services (ITS) to implement strategic initiatives, assist with managing complex projects, and improve departmental processes.

The ideal candidate will have at least three years of experience in a technology-focused IT role and excel at collaborating with directors, customers, vendors, and other stakeholders to streamline operations and service delivery.

This is not a traditional help desk or programming position, but rather a high-level operations role focused on enhancing overall IT effectiveness.

This position will work in person on the Hillsdale, MI campus.

Essential Job Functions

Project and Operations Management

• Assist with managing complex, cross-functional projects and initiatives
• Identify and assist with resolving operational inefficiencies and bottlenecks within ITS
• Assist in budget planning and resource allocation
• Assist with driving continuous improvement initiatives within the ITS department

Communication and Vendor Management

• Assist with preparing reports, presentations, and communications for stakeholders
• Represent the AVP for ITS in meetings and committees as needed
• Review and negotiate contracts with technology vendors throughout the College
• Assist with routine vendor due diligence reviews to ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of vendor-supplied systems and services

Research and Analysis

• Conduct technology-related research and analysis related to new initiatives and technologies
• Stay informed about emerging technologies and their application within the Hillsdale College environment

Coordination and Strategy

• Support the AVP for ITS and department directors, coordinating efforts and ensuring alignment with departmental and organizational goals
• Assist with developing and implementing strategies to efficiently deliver services to the College through collaboration among clients and teams within ITS
• Assist with coordinating project and operational work to ensure it is completed in alignment with the College’s strategic and operational priorities

Assist with managing key performance indicators (KPI) to measure the performance and overall success of IT initiatives

Required Qualifications :

A bachelor’s degree in Business Information Systems, Management Information Systems, Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related technology discipline is ideal.

Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in other disciplines with at least five years of IT experience are also encouraged to apply.

Minimum three years of experience in a corporate IT role is required.

Other Skills : Core Skills

• IT Operations and Service Delivery : Working understanding of IT service management principles and best practices, particularly with ITIL 4
• IT Project Management : Experience managing complex IT projects, including planning, execution, and monitoring
• Communication : Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences
• Problem-solving and Critical Thinking : Exceptional ability to analyze complex situations and develop effective solutions
• Strategic Planning and Execution : Proven ability to understand and assist with implementing IT strategies aligned with organizational goals
• Stakeholder Management : Expert in managing relationships with diverse stakeholders, including executives, vendors, and team members
• Data Analysis and Reporting : Strong skills in analyzing data and creating reports to inform decision-making using tools like Excel, PowerBI, Python, and other data visualization tools and programming languages

Supporting Skills

• Agile Methodologies : Working knowledge of agile project development approaches, particularly in the area of software and new technology development
• Vendor Management : Experience in managing vendor relationships and contracts, including negotiation and due diligence
• Process Improvement Techniques : Proficient in identifying and implementing process enhancements
• Emerging Technologies Research : Ability to stay abreast of new technologies and their potential applications, including a strong ability to present new technology solutions to non-technical audiences
• Risk Management and Compliance : Basic familiarity with IT risk management principles and relevant compliance requirements is helpful, particularly in the areas of cybersecurity and regulatory compliance (e.

g., GDPR, HIPAA, and privacy laws)

• Budgeting and Financial Management : Experience in IT budget planning and financial management, including cost projecting
• Higher Education IT Experience : Familiarity with IT operations within higher education is helpful
• Change Management : Experience in understanding and successfully navigating the complexities and challenges involved in organizational change initiatives is helpful

Technical Skills

• Generative AI : Experienced with the appropriate use of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT or Claude, for data analysis, data visualization, code generation, and to expedite routine administrative chores
• IT Service Management Tools : Proficiency in using ITSM tools such as Service Desk or similar platforms
• Project Management Software : Experience with project management tools like Microsoft Project, Teamwork, or Trello
• Data Analysis and Visualization : Skilled in using Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables) and basic Python for data analysis and reporting would also be helpful
• Cloud Platforms : Familiarity with major cloud service providers (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and their basic services
• Networking : Understanding of basic networking concepts in a corporate or campus environment
• Cybersecurity : Knowledge of fundamental cybersecurity principles, best practices, and common threats
• Virtualization : Familiarity with virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V)
• Database Management : Understanding of database concepts and basic SQL queries
• IT Infrastructure : Knowledge of server hardware, storage systems, and enterprise IT infrastructure components
• Enterprise Software : Familiarity with common enterprise software systems (e.g. SIS, CRM, LMS) used in higher education

Code of Commitment

Be a good representative of Hillsdale College to promote the liberal arts, the College’s original Articles of Association and operating principles stated in the Staff Code of Commitment.

The Mission Statement should be considered in all aspects of the position. The teaching of Christian faith shall remain a conspicuous aim of the College.

Open Date : 09 / 04 / 2024

Open Until Filled : Yes

Supplemental Questions :

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Are you currently living in, or willing to relocate to, the Hillsdale, MI area?

Documents Needed To Apply (Required Documents & Optional Documents) : Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Optional Documents

PI9203308d5a80-25448-35481694