We are seeking a full-time Senior Director of Innovation & Technology, to join our team. In this role you will lead the Kravis Center’s technology operations, including infrastructure, cybersecurity, enterprise applications, data management, and user support. This role ensures technology systems are secure, reliable, and aligned with organizational needs while supporting live performances, administrative operations, and patron services.
The Senior Director of IT works across departments, overseeing technology projects, drives process improvements through automation and AI, manages vendor relationships and budgets, and delivers efficient, customer-focused technology services to staff, artists, patrons, and partners.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
Technology Operations & Infrastructure:
- Oversee the daily operation, maintenance, and performance of all technology systems and infrastructure.
- Ensure the reliability and availability of network, server, cloud, wireless, telecommunications, and end-user computing environments.
- Develop and maintain technology standards, policies, and operational procedures.
- Monitor system performance and implement improvements to increase stability and efficiency.
- Lead technology planning for renovations and capital improvement projects.
IT Service Delivery & User Support:
- Direct all Help Desk and end-user support functions.
- Establish and maintain service level expectations, response times, and customer service standards.
- Implement self-service tools, knowledge bases, and automated support solutions.
- Analyze support trends and identify opportunities to improve user experience.
- Ensure timely resolution of technology issues affecting operations, performances, and patron services.
Enterprise Applications & Systems Administration:
- Oversee the administration and integration of enterprise systems including business applications, Tessitura, financial systems, and collaboration tools.
- Coordinate software upgrades, testing, implementations, and system enhancements.
- Identify opportunities to eliminate redundant processes through automation and systems integration.
- Maintain system documentation and change management processes.
- Ensure accurate system configurations and operational continuity.
Artificial Intelligence & Business Automation:
- Identify and implement practical AI and automation solutions that improve efficiency and service delivery.
- Support departments in evaluating and adopting AI tools for workflow optimization.
- Develop standards and governance for the responsible use of AI technologies.
- Measure and report on operational efficiencies gained through automation initiatives.
- Coordinate AI training and user adoption efforts across the organization.
Cybersecurity & Risk Management:
- Oversee cybersecurity operations, policies, and security awareness programs.
- Ensure proper security controls are in place to protect organizational data and systems.
- Manage vulnerability assessments, remediation efforts, and security monitoring activities.
- Coordinate incident response and recovery efforts during cybersecurity events.
- Maintain compliance with applicable security, privacy, and regulatory requirements.
Technology Projects & Portfolio Management:
- Lead technology-related projects from planning through implementation.
- Develop project schedules, budgets, scopes, and resource plans.
- Coordinate vendors, consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
- Monitor project progress and ensure delivery within established timelines and budgets.
- Provide regular status updates to executive leadership.
Data Management & Reporting:
- Oversee data governance practices to ensure data quality, security, and consistency.
- Support departments with reporting, dashboards, and business intelligence tools.
- Develop operational and executive reporting to track key technology performance metrics.
- Identify opportunities to use data analytics to improve decision-making and operational performance.
- Ensure appropriate retention, backup, and recovery practices are maintained.
Financial Management & Vendor Oversight:
- Develop and manage the annual technology operating and capital budgets.
- Monitor expenditures and ensure compliance with approved budgets.
- Evaluate technology investments and recommend cost-effective solutions.
- Negotiate vendor contracts, renewals, licensing agreements, and service agreements.
- Track vendor performance and ensure contractual obligations are met.
Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery:
- Maintain and regularly test disaster recovery and business continuity plans.
- Ensure critical technology systems have appropriate backup and recovery capabilities.
- Coordinate technology recovery procedures during emergency events.
- Identify risks and implement solutions to reduce operational disruptions.
- Document and update recovery plans for all critical systems.
Staff Leadership & Development:
- Lead, supervise, and develop technology department personnel.
- Establish performance goals and accountability measures for team members.
- Promote technical training, professional development, and cross-training opportunities.
- Support workforce planning and succession planning efforts.
- Foster a collaborative, service-oriented team culture.
Event, Production & Patron Technology Support:
- Ensure technology systems supporting performances, events, and front-of-house operations function effectively.
- Coordinate technical support requirements for major events, donor functions, and special programs.
- Partner with Operations, Production, Marketing, Development, and Guest Services departments to address technology needs.
- Support ongoing improvements to patron-facing technologies and digital engagement tools.
- Provide technical oversight for venue-wide technology initiatives and upgrades.
Qualifications/Experience:
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in information technology management, including infrastructure, cybersecurity, end-user support, enterprise applications, and systems integration.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and develop IT professionals with diverse technical skill sets, including infrastructure, applications, and software development.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field; advanced certifications (e.g., CISSP, ITIL, PMP, or cloud certifications) preferred.
- Experience with technology platforms commonly used in performing arts or complex venue environments—including ticketing systems, CRM platforms, production technologies, and facility-wide networks—is strongly preferred.
- Proven ability to communicate effectively with executive leadership, non-technical stakeholders, and external partners.
Physical Demands/Work Environment:
This position is a full-time, on-site role. Requires the ability to work extended hours as needed, including evenings, weekends, and occasional event-related support based on organizational needs, technology projects, or urgent system issues. Ability to sit for prolonged periods while working at a computer and move freely throughout office areas, performance venues, and other facility spaces to perform job duties. Must be able to communicate effectively, operate standard office and technology equipment, and occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull objects weighing between 5 to 30 pounds as necessary.
Pay: From $150,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
