The Chief Information Officer (CIO) is a pivotal leadership role responsible for the comprehensive management and strategic oversight of MSDE's Office of Information Technology (OIT) operations. This includes maintaining a robust network infrastructure, cybersecurity standards, and optimizing the accessibility of all digital products and services. The CIO will lead the OIT department to deliver secure, reliable, efficient, and cost-saving technology solutions to support the organization’s goals and enhance user experience.

Key responsibilities encompass overseeing IT project management, ensuring all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget. Some of the primary job functions of the CIO include: Ensuring rigorous data privacy protocols and maintain compliance with both federal and state regulations; Collaborating with State of Maryland's Department of Information Technology (DoIT) and local school districts to support state initiatives and provide guidance on cybersecurity and data privacy; Conducting and coordinating legislative analysis to anticipate and prepare for changes in the regulatory landscape that may impact the organization’s IT policies and procedures and developing and implementing strategies to safeguard the organization’s digital assets against cyber threats and ensure that all digital products meet accessibility standards.

The CIO will also play a crucial role in fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the IT department. They will develop and maintain an IT governance framework to align IT strategy with business objectives, ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in IT operations. The ideal candidate must possess extensive experience in managing large-scale IT operations, in-depth understanding of network infrastructure, and a proven track record in cybersecurity and compliance management. Strong leadership and management skills, strategic thinking/systems thinker, backed by the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments are essential for success in this role.

Position Duties Include:

Plan, organize, and direct the work of the Office of Information Technology (OIT) staff, providing leadership in the development and implementation of a department-wide information technology (IT) plan that is aligned with the Maryland State Department of Education’s (MSDE) strategic plan and is consistent with Statewide directives and initiatives. This includes responsibility for all aspects of MSDE’s IT systems, including planning, developing, directing, coordinating, and maintaining instructional and administrative IT systems.
Collaborate with members of the Executive Team to assess their Divisional IT requirements and allocate the necessary resources to assist each Division in accomplishing its critical mission.
Direct the development and implementation of Department-wide information technology policies, legislation, and compliance initiatives for the Maryland State Department of Education and coordinate with the Department’s Information Technology Steering Committees and the local school districts.
Provide leadership in developing Department-wide standards for all phases of information technology and project management and provide direction to Divisions/Offices on technology issues involving upgrading systems and equipment, integrating existing systems with new systems, inter-divisional coordination, and procurement of technology-related equipment and services.
Effectively manages the IT staff and motivates employees to work toward Departmental goals and objectives. Ensure equitable application of MSDE policies and procedures and promptly resolve problems, encourage teamwork and innovation, provide appropriate staff development, and conduct timely performance evaluations.

Education: Master's degree from an accredited college or university

Experience: 12 years of progressive management and supervisory experience. Experience with procurement, budgeting, cybersecurity compliance, legislation analysis, IT management, resource planning, and project management.

Applicants must consent to State and FBI (CJIS) background check as a routine procedure for all employees.

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.

The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.

For education obtained outside the U.S., a copy of the equivalent American education as determined by a foreign credential evaluation service must be provided prior to hire.

State Of Maryland Benefits

Applicants must complete the MD State Government online application for employment and submit their professional resume. The application and resume must clearly demonstrate that the applicant satisfies the minimum qualifications for the position. Applications must be complete to be considered including all related job duties, even if those are also listed on an attached resume. Additional required materials may be uploaded with the online application, submitted to the fax number, or mailed to the address listed.

If you are unable to apply online, paper applications can be obtained from the link below and be faxed to 410-333-8950 or mailed to MSDE Office of Human Resources, 200 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. If there is a supplemental questionnaire, this must be completed and sent in with your paper application. Postmarks will not be accepted.

Inquiries can be made to 410-767-0019, TDD 410-333-3045. Appropriate accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities. If you have difficulty with your user account or have general questions about this online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850. TTY Users: Call via Maryland Relay.

Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non-selection or termination of employment.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. Individuals with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.

All application materials must be received in our office by the Closing Date.

Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.

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