Chief Information Officer (CIO)

About Us: At WinSouth Credit Union, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality financial services that foster financial well-being for our members. We pride ourselves on our member-first approach and continually evolve to meet the needs of our community. In keeping with this commitment, we seek an experienced and motivated Chief Information Officer (CIO) to join our dynamic team.

• Position Summary:

  The Chief Information Officer (CIO) is responsible for the strategic direction, management, and hands-on oversight of all information technology functions at WinSouth Credit Union. This role ensures that technology systems are secure, efficient, and aligned with the credit union's operational goals and member service expectations. In a mid-sized environment, the CIO plays both a strategic and operational role, actively participating in day-to-day IT functions.

  
  Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  Strategic & Executive Leadership

  • Develop and execute the credit union's IT strategy in alignment with organizational goals.
  • Serve as a key advisor to the CEO, executive team, and Board on technology initiatives, risks, and investments.
  • Participate in ALCO, management, and strategic planning meetings as needed.

  IT Operations (Hands-On Oversight)

  • Oversee and support core processing systems, digital banking platforms, and internal networks.
  • Provide direct support or supervision of system upgrades, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
  • Ensure high system availability and performance across all locations and services.

  Vendor & Core System Management

  • Manage relationships with core processors and IT vendors.
  • Negotiate contracts, monitor performance, and ensure service levels are met.
  • Coordinate system conversions, integrations, and enhancements.

  Information Security & Compliance

  • Lead the credit union's information security program, including cybersecurity monitoring and incident response.
  • Ensure compliance with NCUA and FFIEC IT/security guidelines.
  • Oversee audits, IT examinations, and remediation of findings.
  • Maintain and test Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery plans.

  Digital Banking & Member Experience

  • Oversee online banking, mobile banking, and payment technologies.
  • Recommend and implement technology solutions to enhance member experience and accessibility.

  Data & Reporting

  • Ensure data integrity, reporting accuracy, and system controls.
  • Support departments with reporting tools and data needs.

  Project Management

  • Lead IT-related projects, including system upgrades, new product implementations, and process improvements.
  • Balance project priorities with daily operational needs.

  Team Leadership

  • Supervise IT staff and/or coordinate with third-party IT providers.
  • Provide training, guidance, and performance management.
  • In smaller teams, serve as a working manager contributing directly to IT tasks.
  
  Qualifications:

  Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (preferred).
  • 2-5+ years of IT experience, with leadership or senior-level responsibility.
  • Experience in a financial institution preferred but not required; credit union experience a plus.

  Knowledge & Skills

  • Strong understanding of core processing systems and financial institution operations.
  • Working knowledge of cybersecurity practices, audits, and regulatory expectations (NCUA, FFIEC).
  • Ability to be both strategic and hands-on in a mid-sized environment.
  • Strong vendor management and project management skills.
  • Effective communication skills with the ability to present to leadership and the Board.
  
  Key Attributes for WinSouth
  • Hands-on leader willing to "roll up sleeves" when needed
  • Strong risk awareness and security mindset
  • Practical, cost-conscious decision maker
  • Focused on improving member-facing technology and internal efficiencies
  
  Working Conditions:
  • Primarily office-based with occasional after-hours support for system issues or upgrades.