Vice President, IT Operations & Architecture

Being a Country Bank team member has a lot of perks! Our competitive total compensation package and comprehensive benefit package include:

• Medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) Plan with a generous employer contribution plus match;
• Income protection benefits;
• Educational assistance and tuition reimbursement benefits;
• Hybrid work and flexible scheduling options;
• Generous total paid time off, and more!

Country Bank is a growing mutual community bank with locations in Hampden, Hampshire and Worcester counties. We are Made to Make a Difference in the lives of our customers, our communities, and for our team members every day since 1850. It is our people that drive our success and create our inclusive and engaging culture. We're excited to meet you to discuss our career opportunities and how you can make a difference as a part of our growing IT team!

About the Job:

We're excited to announce an opportunity for the position of Vice President, IT Operations & Architecture ! This position supervises the daily operations of the Bank's Information Technology functions, including Service Desk and user support functions, network support, telecommunications support, project management, security and other critical IT activities. Directs the development and maintenance of schedules to ensure efficient operation and timely introduction of new IT products and services.

The hiring range for this position is $130,000 to $170,000. Starting pay determined based on candidate's qualifications and experience.

This position is Full Time, 40 hours weekly.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Other Duties May be Assigned):

• Coordinates and supervises all operational activities of the IT Department, including all activity related to network and telecommunications operations.

• Responsible for ensuring continuous and timely access to all Production Systems, including all network hardware and operating systems, and application software installed in all Bank locations.

• Oversees design and architecture of IT Networking and Infrastructure and coordinates changes in a manner that ensures their safe and efficient operation.

• Supports the First Vice President of Information Security in developing and maintaining the highest security standards available for the Bank.

• Coordinates the installation of new computer hardware and/or software when necessary and works closely with other IT support staff to resolve problems involving both network and application software problems.

• Develops, monitors and maintains schedules for all IT projects. Assists with the annual IT project and corporate strategic plans.

• Oversees the IT Service Desk, which provides IT support for end-user problems, including IT infrastructure issues, IT application support and other end-user issues.

• Assesses and makes recommendations for the improvement of network infrastructure and other IT-related functions.
• Participates in the selection, design, installation and implementation of new network and telecommunications equipment. Also participates in the selection of application software to be purchased or leased.
• Oversees the installation and implementation of new application software or updates to existing application software. Designs, recommends, plans and implements network upgrades and enhancements.

• Assists with the development, maintenance and testing of a comprehensive disaster recovery plan for all IT and Telecom systems.

• Liaison between IT and technology vendors and related projects and performance.

• Assists with all Bank IT audits by collecting auditable evidence and/or executing recommend remediation. Participates in the review of the Bank's Information Security Program. Suggests recommended changes/updates.
• Serves as back-up to the Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer in their absence.

• May require after-hours involvement to maintain Production Systems and related ancillary applications

• Responsible for building long-lasting relationships with customers, community and colleagues through the embodiment of our Core Values: Integrity, Service, Teamwork, Excellence and Prosperity.

• Other job duties, as assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

It is required that the employee in this position can work independently, interpreting ideas and facts, while also analyzing and interpreting federal and state laws and/or regulations. This employee should have strong customer service skills, as well as strong written communication skills and the ability to make effective presentations in a group setting. An individual with exceptional verbal and numerical aptitudes is required. This role requires an individual who is process and metrics-oriented in order to measure progress in the way in which the environment is managed, in terms of overall efficiency and service objectives. This employee must have strong supervisory and the ability to understand, prioritize and resolve problems involving all facets of the Bank's technology environment and to work well with people at all levels of the organization is necessary.

This position requires intermediate knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, and Access. The ability to evaluate, implement, and support new technology products, along with maintaining a strong knowledge of IT best practices is important. An advanced understanding of PC's networks and communications, especially in relation to Windows OS and 20XX server exchange, active directory, virtual infrastructures, SAN technologies and MS Office products, Cloud Solutions, CyberSecurity, as well as client server, browser- based and thick client applications is required.

Education and Work Experience

A Bachelor's degree, or equivalent experience in Information Technology or related field is required. A Master's degree and relevant network and industry certifications are preferred. Five to eight years of related information technology work experience is required, with at least three years of maintaining a management or supervisory role. Experience providing network and end user support in a highly-regulated, complex, multi-vendor and multi-location IT environment is required. Previous Financial Services industry experience preferred.


Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

This position is in an office environment, which means the physical surroundings are generally pleasant and comfortable with minimal exposure to injury or other hazards, with a moderate level of noise. Prolonged periods of sitting and looking at a computer screen with freedom of movement on a regular basis is expected. Minimal physical effort is required but could include: repetitive motion of wrists and fingers; talking and hearing; and the handling and lifting of computer supplies. This position may require some travel between offices.

Country Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Diverse applicants encouraged to apply.