IT Operations Manager at Hillsdale College

We are seeking an experienced IT professional with a strong business mindset and a drive to optimize technology operations. This role works directly with the AVP for Information Technology Services (ITS) to implement strategic initiatives, assist with managing complex projects, and improve departmental processes. The ideal candidate will have at least three years of experience in a technology-focused IT role and excel at collaborating with directors, customers, vendors, and other stakeholders to streamline operations and service delivery. This is not a traditional help desk or programming position, but rather a high-level operations role focused on enhancing overall IT effectiveness. This position will work in person on the Hillsdale, MI campus.

Project and Operations Management

Assist with managing complex, cross-functional projects and initiatives

Identify and assist with resolving operational inefficiencies and bottlenecks within ITS

Assist in budget planning and resource allocation

Assist with driving continuous improvement initiatives within the ITS department

Communication and Vendor Management

Assist with preparing reports, presentations, and communications for stakeholders

Represent the AVP for ITS in meetings and committees as needed

Review and negotiate contracts with technology vendors throughout the College

Assist with routine vendor due diligence reviews to ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of vendor-supplied systems and services

Research and Analysis

Conduct technology-related research and analysis related to new initiatives and technologies

Stay informed about emerging technologies and their application within the Hillsdale College environment

Coordination and Strategy

Support the AVP for ITS and department directors, coordinating efforts and ensuring alignment with departmental and organizational goals

Assist with developing and implementing strategies to efficiently deliver services to the College through collaboration among clients and teams within ITS

Assist with coordinating project and operational work to ensure it is completed in alignment with the Colleges strategic and operational priorities

Assist with managing key performance indicators (KPI) to measure the performance and overall success of IT initiatives

A bachelors degree in Business Information Systems, Management Information Systems, Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related technology discipline is ideal. Candidates with a Bachelors degree in other disciplines with at least five years of IT experience are also encouraged to apply.

Minimum three years of experience in a corporate IT role is required.

IT Operations and Service Delivery: Working understanding of IT service management principles and best practices, particularly with ITIL 4

IT Project Management: Experience managing complex IT projects, including planning, execution, and monitoring

Communication: Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences

Problem-solving and Critical Thinking: Exceptional ability to analyze complex situations and develop effective solutions

Strategic Planning and Execution: Proven ability to understand and assist with implementing IT strategies aligned with organizational goals

Stakeholder Management: Expert in managing relationships with diverse stakeholders, including executives, vendors, and team members

Data Analysis and Reporting: Strong skills in analyzing data and creating reports to inform decision-making using tools like Excel, PowerBI, Python, and other data visualization tools and programming languages

Agile Methodologies: Working knowledge of agile project development approaches, particularly in the area of software and new technology development

Vendor Management: Experience in managing vendor relationships and contracts, including negotiation and due diligence

Process Improvement Techniques: Proficient in identifying and implementing process enhancements

Emerging Technologies Research: Ability to stay abreast of new technologies and their potential applications, including a strong ability to present new technology solutions to non-technical audiences

Risk Management and Compliance: Basic familiarity with IT risk management principles and relevant compliance requirements is helpful, particularly in the areas of cybersecurity and regulatory compliance (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, and privacy laws)

Budgeting and Financial Management: Experience in IT budget planning and financial management, including cost projecting

Higher Education IT Experience: Familiarity with IT operations within higher education is helpful

Change Management: Experience in understanding and successfully navigating the complexities and challenges involved in organizational change initiatives is helpful

Generative AI: Experienced with the appropriate use of generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT or Claude, for data analysis, data visualization, code generation, and to expedite routine administrative chores

IT Service Management Tools: Proficiency in using ITSM tools such as Service Desk or similar platforms

Project Management Software: Experience with project management tools like Microsoft Project, Teamwork, or Trello

Data Analysis and Visualization: Skilled in using Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables) and basic Python for data analysis and reporting would also be helpful

Cloud Platforms: Familiarity with major cloud service providers (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and their basic services

Networking: Understanding of basic networking concepts in a corporate or campus environment

Cybersecurity: Knowledge of fundamental cybersecurity principles, best practices, and common threats

Virtualization: Familiarity with virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V)

Database Management: Understanding of database concepts and basic SQL queries

IT Infrastructure: Knowledge of server hardware, storage systems, and enterprise IT infrastructure components

Enterprise Software: Familiarity with common enterprise software systems (e.g. SIS, CRM, LMS) used in higher education

Code of Commitment

Be a good representative of Hillsdale College to promote the liberal arts, the Colleges original Articles of Association and operating principles stated in the Staff Code of Commitment. The Mission Statement should be considered in all aspects of the position. The teaching of Christian faith shall remain a conspicuous aim of the College.