Associate Director of Information Technology

Associate Director of Information Technology ERS is a national non‑profit consulting firm that empowers school system leaders to make transformative shifts in resources, structures, and practices so that all students—especially those with the greatest learning needs—can attend a school where they can learn and thrive. This leadership role within the Core Services team is responsible for shaping ERS’ strategy and execution across technology, data, and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance impact, consulting effectiveness, and internal operations. The Associate Director reports to the Chief Operating Officer & Managing Partner, Core Services, and operates as both a strategic business partner and technology leader, aligning systems, tools, and data with ERS’ consulting model and mission. Responsibilities include supporting the organization’s AI strategy and adoption, overseeing two technology team members, and managing the cloud environment that enables day‑to‑day operations. Salary range: $130,000 to $167,000. Key Responsibilities AI Enablement, Strategy and Data Architecture Maintain and evolve AI infrastructure (Copilot, Azure Cloud, Gemini, Claude), enhancing and aligning AI tools for organization‑wide use through connectors and infrastructure design. Support development and execution of ERS’ AI strategy, identifying opportunities to enhance consultant productivity, client delivery, insights, and internal operations. Partner with leadership to align technology and AI investments with organizational goals, growth priorities, and consulting delivery needs. Collaborate with the Data, AI, and Systems Innovation (DAISI) initiative to develop a Data‑to‑AI blueprint that aligns data systems, governance, and analytics, ensuring AI enablement is built on trusted, integrated infrastructure. Ensure AI infrastructure and governance frameworks include responsible use, permissions, and tools that adhere to strong data security, privacy, and compliance practices, including FERPA. Technology Vision & Organizational Alignment Set a clear vision for the technology function and drive a forward‑looking technology roadmap by defining priorities and sequencing work over time. Align technology investments and decisions with both day‑to‑day operational needs and longer‑term organizational goals. Ensure systems and tools are optimized for a consulting/partner‑based operating model, including knowledge sharing and reuse, cross‑project collaboration, data accessibility, and insight generation. Continuously evaluate and implement technologies that improve organizational effectiveness and scalability. Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on technology‑enabled organizational transformation. Overall Leadership of Technology Team and Function Provide strategic and operational leadership to the Technology team to ensure on‑time execution of key deliverables, balancing team goals with individual professional growth. Oversee all aspects of the technology function, including cloud infrastructure, enterprise applications, data systems, and end‑user support. Oversee core platforms—Microsoft 365, Azure cloud environment, and Salesforce—ensuring they are configured to support reliable access and clear permissions that enable consultants and cross‑functional teams to deliver innovative, data‑driven solutions to district partners. Maintain hands‑on understanding of systems and user workflows, stepping in to directly support users or troubleshoot technology issues when needed. Manage the team’s business needs, including procurement, contracts, negotiations, IT workforce planning, and strategic solution partners. Effectively manage the professional development of team members through skill development, coaching, and performance feedback. Lead an inclusive, high‑performing team by fostering belonging, clarity, ownership, and continuous feedback, ensuring colleagues feel valued, supported, and accountable for results. Project Management Lead cross‑functional initiatives to implement data‑driven technology and AI capabilities. Drive successful adoption through change management, training, ongoing user support, and feedback loops. Coordinate across internal teams, vendors, and stakeholders to deliver high‑quality results. Manage and balance competing priorities, leveraging data and functional expertise to allocate team resources for maximum impact. Organizational Stewardship Contribute as a member of the Extended Leadership Team, shaping organization‑wide strategy. Support talent development and performance management across the organization. Actively engage and contribute to culture‑building initiatives, rooted in learning and relationship building, including coaching, position groups, and quarterly ERS weeks. Qualifications Hybrid work schedule: must work from the Watertown, MA office at least three consistent days per week. Must be authorized to work in the United States; no sponsorship will be provided. Project Management and Leadership Experience 7+ years of experience across technology, data, or digital strategy roles. At least 3 years in a leadership role leading high‑performing teams. Experience as an internal technology professional within a consulting firm, professional services organization, or similar team‑based environment (preferred: 50–200 employees). Demonstrated success aligning technology initiatives with organizational strategy and outcomes. Experience leading AI, automation, and digital transformation initiatives. Experience leading teams, managing processes, and executing complex projects with a strong focus on process quality that consistently delivers strong outcomes. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet tight deadlines. Strong communication skills (oral and written) and interpersonal skills (ability to build and maintain relationships). Ability to work independently and cooperatively as part of a mission‑driven team. Commitment to ERS core values: impact, teamwork, learning, people first, and service. Technical Expertise Strong understanding of cloud platforms (Azure preferred), SaaS ecosystems (M365, Salesforce, etc.), data systems, APIs, and analytics tools. Experience with Power Platform (Power BI, Power Apps, Power Automate or equivalent), data modeling, and business intelligence. Familiarity with AI tools and enterprise applications (e.g., Copilot, generative AI platforms). Strong knowledge of cybersecurity, data privacy, and responsible management of sensitive information. Proven ability to identify and deploy new technologies that support continuous improvement efforts. Preferred: Experience with Python or R. Preferred: Working knowledge of security and compliance standards (e.g., FERPA, HIPAA, or equivalent). ERS is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, ancestry, pregnancy, or military service. #J-18808-Ljbffr Education Resource Strategies