Director of IT

IT Director

The IT Director will be responsible for overseeing the technology strategy, infrastructure, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) and operations of the Providence Housing Authority (PHA). This role will lead the IT Department, ensuring all technology systems are reliable, secure, and meet the needs of the agency's current and future public housing programs. The IT Director will work closely with senior leadership, consultants and Managed Service Providers (MSP) to support operational goals and ensure that technology is effectively utilized to enhance service delivery, efficiency, security and regulatory compliance.

Essential Tasks of the Position

Leadership & Strategic Planning

• Develop and implement an IT strategy aligned with the PHA's mission and goals, ensuring technology systems meet current and future business needs.

• Provide leadership and direction for a team of IT professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for IT services and projects, ensuring high levels of service and accountability.

IT Infrastructure & Operations Management

• Oversee the management, maintenance, and upgrade of all IT systems, including hardware, software, infrastructure, licenses, networks, and cloud solutions.

• Ensure the PHA's IT infrastructure is scalable, secure, and compliant with federal, state, and local regulations governing public housing and data privacy.

• Collaborate with department heads to optimize the use of technology to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.

Cybersecurity & Compliance

• Develop, implement, and enforce cybersecurity policies and procedures to safeguard sensitive data, including resident information, financial data, and operational records.

• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, including HUD requirements, regarding IT systems and data management.

• Regularly assess risks and vulnerabilities and implement strategies to mitigate them.

AI Governance, Policy and Security

• Must balance AI adoption with risk management.

• Define guidelines for utilizing AI, establishing acceptable-use policies to protect sensitive data and prevent unapproved "shadow AI" usage.

• Evaluate, negotiate, and manage third-party AI platform vendors, ensuring their tools meet internal security standards and total cost of ownership expectations.

• Monitor AI systems for data leaks and regulatory compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing public housing and data privacy.

Project Management & Budgeting

• Lead IT projects from conception through execution, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and on budget.

• Manage the IT department's budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources for hardware, software, infrastructure, licenses, networking, staffing, and training.

• Evaluate emerging technologies and tools that could enhance the agency's service delivery or streamline operations.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Manage relationships with external vendors and service providers to ensure contracts and services meet the agency's needs and deliver value.

• Work closely with other departments and external stakeholders (e.g., local government agencies, HUD representatives) to ensure technology systems are aligned with public housing initiatives.

Staff Development & Support

• Provide training and professional development opportunities for IT staff to enhance skills and capabilities.

• Offer technical support and troubleshooting for staff, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations of IT systems.

• Ensure consistent training for all staff related to cyber security risks, monitor staffs training results.

Technology Advocacy

• Serve as the primary advocate for technology within the organization, promoting its role in driving innovation and improving the effectiveness of public housing services.

Position Requirements and Qualifications:

Education Level

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Administration, or related field is required. Master's degree preferred.

Certifications (Preferred)

• Certified information Systems Security Professionals (CISSP)

• Certified Information Technology Manager (CITM)

• CompTIA Security+ and SecurityX

• Certified information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL)

• Project Management Professional (PMP)

• Microsoft certifications, such as 365, Azure and Microsoft role-based certifications.

Experience in Related Field

• Minimum of 8-10 years of IT experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial role.

• Proven experience in IT infrastructure, Cloud management, project management, and cybersecurity.

• Strong understanding of IT systems in the public sector or housing authority environment preferred.

• Knowledge of AI, public housing operations and regulatory compliance, including HUD standards and guidelines, is highly desirable.

Knowledge, skills, abilities, licenses and certifications

Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Extensive knowledge of IT systems, including cloud computing, VMware, cybersecurity protocols, networking, databases, and enterprise software solutions.

Experience managing IT budgets, vendor contracts, and procurement processes.

Expertise in project management methodologies and tools.

Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable strategies for non-technical stakeholders.

Working Conditions:

Work Schedule

• Ability to work in an office environment

• Ability to work 35-hours/week based in Providence, RI with occasional travel (using personal vehicle) to various PHA remote offices within the city

• Attend monthly Board Meetings

• Occasional evenings or weekend hours are required for critical system updates or project deadlines

Physical Demands

• Type: sedentary and manual work

• May require some physical activity, including setting up equipment and troubleshooting technical issues on-site and at PAH remote offices

• Strength: Ability to lift up to 50 lb.

• Ability to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move an object

Equipment Used:

• Competency in operating computers, switches, firewalls, printers, scanners and general office equipment

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

The requirements for this position are indicative of the physical and mental capacities needed to satisfactorily perform the duties for the position. Reasonable accommodations, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act will be granted wherever possible.