Head of IT & Security - Remote

Chief Information Officer (CIO)Location: Onsite – Houston, TXEmployment Type: Full-TimeAbout BigRio: BigRio is a remote-based, technology consulting firm headquartered in Boston, MA. We deliver software solutions from custom development and implementation to data analytics and machine learning/AI integrations. As a one-stop shop, we attract clients from a variety of industries due to our proven ability to deliver cutting-edge, cost-effective software solutions.About the Client: BigRio is recruiting on behalf of a Houston-based leader in healthcare delivery services. The organization is focused on scaling its digital and data capabilities to support rapid growth, operational efficiency, and innovation in the healthcare and life sciences.We are seeking an on-site Chief Information Officer (CIO) to lead enterprise-wide IT strategy and execution. This strategic leader will oversee technology modernization, applications engineering, cloud infrastructure, and enterprise data platforms, including AI/ML initiatives. This role is based full-time in Houston, TX, and is essential to driving a company-wide digital transformation initiative.The ideal candidate has deep experience in enterprise application development, modern IT infrastructure, data engineering, and healthcare technology platforms such as Epic/Aura, with a hands-on leadership style and a bias for innovation and operational excellence.Technology & Application Strategy:Define and lead the enterprise technology roadmap, overseeing CRM, ERP, and custom application development teams.Ensure alignment between business goals and technology investments, delivering scalable, secure applications.Manage software development lifecycle, QA, DevOps, and vendor coordination.Cloud Infrastructure & IT Operations:Lead modernization of infrastructure, leveraging cloud-native platforms (AWS or Azure).Oversee IT operations, security, and network architecture to ensure compliance, availability, and performance.Establish SOPs and best practices across infrastructure, device management, access control, and business continuity.Data Engineering & Governance:Architect and operationalize a Lake House model for enterprise data.Drive data governance frameworks for compliance, lineage, access, and quality.Support analytics, BI, and data integration with key systems (e.g., Epic, Salesforce, LIMS).AI Strategy & Innovation:Guide the organization's AI/ML roadmap, focusing on automation, insight generation, and GenAI solutions.Lead experimentation and production deployment of AI models using LLMs and advanced analytics tools.Oversee integration of enterprise platforms (ERP, CRM, LIMS, finance systems) for end-to-end visibility and workflow automation.Ensure systems interoperability and a scalable data infrastructure to support both clinical and back-office functions.Build and mentor teams across software development, DevOps, IT infrastructure, and data engineering.Collaborate with executive stakeholders to align IT priorities with strategic business objectives.Preferred Qualifications:10+ years in senior IT or technology leadership roles (CIO, CTO, VP of IT/Engineering) in healthcare, biotech, or life sciences.Expertise in enterprise application development and architecture; SAPIO, LabVantage, Labguru, Scispot, eLabNext, and QBench), ERP, and CRM platforms.Proven experience with cloud environments (AWS or Azure), data governance, and secure data pipelines.Background in leading AI/ML or LLM-based innovation programs.Experience integrating with EHR/EMR systems, especially Epic or Epic Aura.Deep understanding of regulatory requirements in healthcare (HIPAA, SOC2).Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field.Why This Role:Strategic leadership position in a rapidly growing healthcare company at the forefront of genetics and diagnostics.On-site collaboration with a forward-thinking executive team in Houston, TX.Opportunity to lead a robust, modern IT function that supports clinical, operational, and R&D needs.