Job Description
CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Open to the Public
Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until the needs of OCERS have been met. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply immediately.
OCERS offers a competitive benefits package, a defined benefit pension plan which has reciprocity with the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), and a deferred compensation 457 plan. OCERS offers up to an annual $10,000 Educational and Professional Reimbursement, a $4,500 taxable optional benefit plan, annual leave, and a flexible/hybrid work schedule.
OCERS also offers an additional 5.5% certification pay for staff with the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSO) certification.
DESCRIPTION:
The Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) invites you to join our team! We are now accepting online applications to fill the position of Chief Technology Officer.
WHO WE ARE:
Established in 1945, OCERS provides retirement, death, disability and cost-of-living benefits to retirees of the County of Orange and certain County districts. Serving approximately 55,000 members, OCERS is governed by a ten-member Board of Retirement that is responsible for managing a $24 billion fund.
Mission: OCERS' mission is to provide secure retirement and disability benefits with the highest standards of excellence.
Vision: OCERS' vision is to be a trusted partner providing premier pension administration, distinguished by consistent, quality member experiences and prudent financial stewardship.
Values:
Open and Transparent
Commitment to Superior Service
Engaged and Dedicated Workforce
Reliable and Accurate
Secure and Sustainable
THE OPPORTUNITY:
Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is an at-will senior executive role responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of OCERS technology strategy, including the integration of cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. The CTO will lead OCERS digital transformation efforts, ensuring that AI and technology are used ethically, efficiently, and in alignment with governmental priorities. The role includes managing technology infrastructure, driving innovation, and working closely with internal and external stakeholders to shape OCERS technological landscape.
CORE COMPETENCIES:
The Chief Technology Officer position reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer and is expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability, professionalism, customer service, and excellence. The CTO will oversee the Information Technology and Information Security departments, with the Director of Information Technology and Director of Cyber Security reporting directly to the CTO.
This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of emerging technologies, AI ethics, and government regulations, as well as the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Technology and AI Strategy Leadership: Lead the design, development, and execution of OCERS technology and AI strategy, identifying and implementing innovative AI, machine learning, and data-driven solutions to enhance operations and service delivery.
Information Security Oversight: Oversee the continuous improvement, implementation, and management of OCERS information security program, aligning with industry best practices and regulatory requirements. Collaborate with the Information Technology and Information Security departments to ensure the protection of data, infrastructure, and critical systems against cybersecurity threats. Stay abreast of ongoing industry threats, as well as trending issues.
Governance and Compliance: Establish and oversee AI and technology governance frameworks to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, data privacy laws, and ethical standards. Ensure that all AI and technology initiatives comply with relevant laws, regulations, and agency policies. Provide regular updates to the CEO and other senior leadership on progress, challenges, and risks.
Digital Transformation and Innovation: Champion OCERS digital transformation efforts, overseeing the adoption of new technologies that streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance the member experience. Stay apprised of technology trends in both public and private sectors.
Quality Assurance and Data Protection: Build quality assurance and data protection processes by implementing information security standards and policies, including running audits and documenting security procedures.
IT Operations Management: Align with IT teams on the oversight of the day-to-day operations of the IT department, ensuring reliable and efficient IT services. Ensure the IT infrastructure, enterprise applications, and systems teams are positioned appropriately with the right teams and tools to support business operations and growth. Ensure industry standards, foundational operations, processes and frameworks are established to create a stable and scalable environment. Work with teams on continuous improvement efforts to ensure the business and end users have a positive and productive experience.
External Collaboration and Advocacy: Work closely with internal teams, government partners, and the private sector to promote the use of technology and AI in public service, and act as OCERS spokesperson for technology-related matters.
Team Leadership and Development: Build and mentor high-performing IT and Information Security teams, promote a culture of collaboration, innovation and accountability within the IT and Information Security Departments, supervise IT and Information Security staff, evaluate performance, and coordinate training and development for current and future needs of the organization.
Budget and Resource Management: Manage all technology and Information Security budgets, ensuring optimal allocation of resources for both short-term projects and long-term initiatives.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, Data Science, Engineering or a related field.
AND
Seven years of experience in leading technology teams with a proven track record of transformation and innovation to include digital transformation, AI and Machine Learning, preferably in the public or large-scale enterprise sector.
Highly Desirable:
Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Information Technology, Data Science, Engineering or a related field.
Certifications: Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL), Certified in Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT), Certified Information Technology Manager (CITM), and/or Six Sigma.
Completion of an AI certificate program.
Special Notes, Licenses, or Requirements:
A valid driver’s license or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel.
The use of a personal vehicle may be required.
A complete background investigation is required; a felony or misdemeanor conviction may be a disqualifying factor from employment.
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:
The Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities necessary to perform essential duties of the position:
Knowledge:
In-depth understanding of federal and state regulations governing technology, AI, and data privacy.
Expertise in analytical tools and techniques for evaluating AI performance, technology trends, and program effectiveness.
Management and best practices for software research/recommendations, improvement, implementation, and integration.
Familiarity with technology governance frameworks and risk management principles.
Skills/Ability to:
Plan, organize, and manage technology infrastructure development, operations, and support for OCERS.
Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Lead and mentor teams, with a proven ability to foster collaboration across departments and external partners.
Make data-driven decisions and to drive technology innovation that aligns with public sector priorities.
Prepare complex correspondence, reports, narratives, and fiscal and budget documents for the Board of Retirement, executive staff, and managers and present them both orally and in writing so they are understood by all audience levels.
Exhibit strong public speaking skills and the ability to present to a public board.
Manage and prioritize multiple projects while maintaining a high standard of professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical conduct.
Exhibit exemplary interpersonal skills and exercise sound judgment and professionalism in business matters.
Communicate information security and risk-related concepts to technical and nontechnical audiences at various hierarchical levels, ranging from board members to technical specialists.
PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
Physical and Mental Requirements:
Ability to communicate clearly and understandably in person and over the telephone, both one-on-one and in small groups.
Ability to operate a telephone, keyboard, computer, and calculator.
Ability to access a standard office environment.
Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time.
Environmental Conditions:
The primary workplace is in an office environment, working with standard office equipment.
Peripheral office equipment generates a quiet to moderate noise level.
Operates in an environment that includes elected officials, non-elected officials, government agencies, community interest groups and the general public in the development and coordination of OCERS affairs.
Out of area travel may be required to attend professional conferences and other meetings.
#J-18808-Ljbffr Orange County Employees Retirement System
Job Tags
Temporary work, Immediate start, Felony friendly, Flexible hours,