Component Director, Information Systems Services

Description

JOB SUMMARY: Provide leadership, direction, and management for the administration and implementation of the ESC-20 Information Systems Services component. Services include: ASCENDER Enterprise Software and support, Public Education Information Management Systems (PEIMS), Texas Student Data Systems (TSDS), and related services for ESC-20 clients. Ensure compliance with applicable program regulations, ESC-20 Board Policies, and Administrative Procedures.


POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS/ABILITIES

Knowledge
• Master's degree required from an accredited university in business administration, information management systems, or related field.
• Five years of relevant experience in leading school administration services.
• Thorough knowledge of public education student and business accounting guidelines for the state of Texas.
• Knowledge of school procedures and processes related to school administration.
• Five years of PEIMS administration, TSDS, or related experience preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of software enterprise systems and their impact on Local Education Agency (LEA) operational efficiencies.


Skills/Abilities
• Demonstrated competency in leadership and supervision.
• Demonstrated use of effective critical thinking skills and analysis.
• Demonstrated knowledge, expertise, and ability to lead and manage multiple programs, budgets, and staff.
• Ability to produce high quality, professional communications, documents, and programs through strong organizational skills, project management, attention to detail, ability to meet deadlines, and prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated use of effective interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and sound judgment in resolving challenges.
• Proficiency with standard functions within applications such as Microsoft 365/Google, (word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software), e-mail, web browsers, and databases.
• Proficiency with computers (PCs and/or MACs) to include file and desktop management and operations, and working in a cloud-based and/or networked environment.

• Exceptions to these requirements will be considered based on exemplary skills, training, and record of success.

PRODUCTS/OUTCOMES
• Ensure the delivery of high-quality programs and services which advance the Center's mission are made available to LEAs.
• Interpret state and federal rules and laws pertaining to school administrative operations and assist staff in their interpretation.
• Ensure support for implementation of state mandates, state initiatives, and locally identified priorities related to school business and student administrative support products and services.
• Develop thorough understanding of ESC-20 products and services and promote their use by LEAs.
• Ensure that all problems are handled in a timely basis, and that emerging client needs are defined and communicated through the defined procedures.
• Develop an in-depth understanding of Texas Computer Cooperative (TCC) products, PEIMS, and TSDS.
• Develop and nurture positive business relationships with school administrators.
• Develop system implementation plans for new systems or new clients.
• Market products and services regionally and support TCC statewide marketing efforts.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of TCC product development initiatives.
• Ensure appropriate LEA personnel are trained and understand the requirements for the PEIMS.
• Ensure timely submission of PEIMS and TSDS data to the Texas Education Agency.
• Ensure software releases, documentation and training are available to clients in a timely manner.
• Ensure reported system problems and special requests are handled by the appropriate staff in a timely manner.
• Ensure participation in regional and state committees to provide input and feedback on strategic plans for TCC.
• Serve as a TSDS Executive Sponsor and ensure appropriate staff are certified per TSDS requirements.
• Provide professional development experiences for staff to contribute to and maintain high-quality programs and services for clients.
• Coordinate efforts of Information Systems Services programs with other Center products and services to maximize benefits to clients.
• Ensure users groups for ASCENDER Business and Student clients are functioning effectively to assess client needs and facilitate best practices across LEAs.
• Coordinate visits of assigned personnel and self to ensure maximum availability of staff to clients.

INITIATIVE
• Demonstrate initiative, persistence, and a proactive approach to assigned responsibilities.
• Demonstrate the use of sound judgement and ingenuity in problem solving to meet the needs of the Center and clients served.
• Seek, participate, and engage in job-related learning and development experiences that provide professional growth.
• Remain current with industry standards, developments, and applicable laws/regulations; implement accordingly.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability to new situations and assignments.
• Set challenging goals and reach a high standard of performance despite barriers encountered.
• Perform duties with awareness of broader organizational impact, ensuring actions and decisions support department and organizational success.
• Promote and support continuous improvement and organizational change.
• Work under minimal supervision.

COMMUNICATION/HUMAN RELATIONS
• Model the Principles of Public Service (Policy AD LOCAL).
• Communicate in a timely and effective manner and interact professionally.
• Build professional relationships with colleagues and clients, maintaining regular interaction to meet shared outcomes.
• Demonstrate self-confidence, professionalism, and a high level of customer service skills (e.g., courtesy, patience, diplomacy, etc.) at all times and, in particular, when under stressful or unprecedented situations while working with colleagues and clients.
• Demonstrate professional-level written and oral communication skills.
• Work collaboratively in a team setting.
• Keep supervisors informed.
• Regularly handle and maintain confidentiality of sensitive communications and information at all times.

SUPERVISION AND ORGANIZATION OF STAFF
• Ensure that a comprehensive system of supervision, substantive performance evaluation, and staff development is provided to staff members.
• Recommend a staffing pattern for the department which ensures efficiency and effectiveness in all areas.
• Recruit individuals who best match he requirements for the position and the culture of the Center.
• Provide leadership, direction, and support to assigned staff to ensure timely achievement of department goals and outcomes.

BUDGET RESPONSIBILITY
• Develop, monitor, and manage assigned budgets in a timely, efficient, and fiscally responsible manner.
• Monitor program expenditures to ensure use of funds in accordance with program guidelines and Center policies and procedures.
• Be aware of and follow Center guidelines of allowable costs when recommending use of public funds for expenditures for supplies, equipment, and facilities in area of assignment.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS & ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer, peripherals, copy machine, phone, etc.
• Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional standing, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting.
• Motion: Repetitive hand motions including frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching.
• Lifting: Light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); occasional heavy lifting/carrying (15-50 pounds).
• Environment: This role primarily operates in an in-person, dynamic office setting, characterized by frequent verbal communication, movement, and collaboration among team members (small to large in-person gatherings/meetings); exposure to low or intense illumination; exposure to office equipment noise; may work prolonged or irregular hours; frequent travel; and, occasional remote work (after pre-determined length of employment).
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
• Champion and model the Center's Mission, Vision, Core Values, and Service Standards.
• Function within the policies and procedures of ESC-20.
• Accept other responsibilities as assigned.
• Dress and groom appropriately for the ESC-20 work setting.
• Travel independently to fulfill responsibilities of the position.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance, majority in-person/onsite.
• Serve at the will of the Executive Director.