Chief Technology & Innovation Officer

Position SummaryThe Chief Technology and Innovation Officer (CTIO) will lead the Bank's digital transformation and technology-driven growth strategy. The incumbent will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and implementing emerging technologies including AI, automation, and digital banking platforms that enhance customer experience, improve operational efficiency, and position us as a leader in innovative financial services.Key ResponsibilitiesInnovation Strategy & LeadershipDevelop and execute a comprehensive innovation and technology roadmap aligned with the Bank's strategic goalsIdentify emerging trends in fintech, AI, and digital banking that create competitive advantageServe as an internal champion for innovation, fostering a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement across the organizationTechnology & Digital TransformationLead evaluation, selection, and implementation of new banking technologies, platforms, and digital toolsPartner with IT, Operations, and Product teams to modernize core banking systems and customer-facing platformsOversee the integration of AI and automationData & AnalyticsChampion the use of data analytics and AI-driven insights to improve decision-making across lending, risk, and customer engagementPartner with the Chief Information Officer to ensure innovation initiatives align with the Bank's data governance and security standardsProject & Program ManagementOwn the enterprise innovation and technology project portfolio, establishing governance, prioritization, and intake frameworks for new initiativesBuild and lead a project/program management office (PMO) function to standardize delivery methodology, reporting, and resource allocation across innovation initiativesDefine and track key project metrics (scope, budget, timeline, risk) and provide regular status reporting to executive leadership and the BoardManage dependencies and sequencing across concurrent innovation initiatives to ensure coordinated deliveryDrive change management and stakeholder communication plans for each major initiative, ensuring smooth adoption across business linesEstablish post-implementation review processes to capture lessons learned and measure ROI on completed initiativesCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with Credit, Lending (SBA, Ag, Mortgage), Retail Banking, Marketing, and Operations leadership to identify pain points and innovation opportunitiesPartner with Compliance, Risk, and Legal to ensure new technologies meet regulatory, security, and governance requirementsPresent innovation initiatives, technology investments, and ROI projections to executive leadership and the BoardTeam LeadershipBuild and lead an innovation/technology team, including hiring, mentoring, and developing talentManage budget and resource allocation for innovation initiatives and technology investmentsSpecificationsRequired:Bachelor’s degree in computer science, or related field, Master's degree preferred10+ years of progressive experience in technology, innovation, or digital transformation roles, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership capacityProven experience in banking, financial services, or fintech, with a strong understanding of regulatory requirementsDemonstrated success leading digital transformation initiatives, including AI/automation adoptionDemonstrated experience building and running project/program management functions, including PMO governance frameworksExcellent communication and executive presentation skills, with experience presenting to senior leadership and/or a BoardPreferred:PMP certification or equivalent project/program management credentialExperience with AI/ML implementation in a regulated industryFamiliarity with lending technology platforms, core banking systems, digital banking platforms, and fintech partnershipsBackground in change management and organizational transformation