Chief Information Officers

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities  

• Project management and organizational skills
• Ability to manage and plan for large-scale technology change in a dynamic environment, including the adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation.
• Ability to plan and monitor major projects with broad institutional impact, including AI-driven and data centric initiatives.
• Experience in major software and hardware systems procurement and implementation, including evaluation and selection of AI platforms, tools, and vendors.
• Ability to develop and manage departmental budgets, including funding strategies for innovative and AI-enabled solutions.
• Knowledge of and ability to draw from other disciplines (business, group dynamics, organizational behavior, data science, and analytics) to facilitate change and to support the work of information and instructional technology services.
• Knowledge of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and advanced analytics, and the ability to apply these technologies to improve operational efficiency, customer service, and decision-making.
• Understanding of data governance, data quality, and data lifecycle management to support analytics and AI initiatives.
• Ability to identify opportunities for automation and process optimization through AI, including applications such as predictive analytics, fraud detection, and intelligent document processing.

Communication Skills

• Ability to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to address technical issues in both technical and non-technical terms.
• Ability to develop and make presentations to a diverse audience. 

Technical Abilities

• Knowledge of current IT applications, methods, and standards.
• General knowledge of methods of modem information system design.
• Knowledge of state-of-the-art computer hardware and software.
• Knowledge of state-of-the-art data, voice and video communication network systems.
• Demonstrated ability to identify trends and exercise mature judgment about the role of information services in higher education.

Management and Social Skills

• Ability to establish effective working relationships at all levels of Cook County Government.
• Ability to inspire strong performance among colleagues and subordinates.
• Ability to lead staff and promote a strong service orientation.
• Commitment to diversity in the workplace and an ability to work effectively with people from a variety of backgrounds, ages, genders, and personalities.
• Commitment to creating and working in a collaborative and team-building environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or Engineering PLUS a minimum of three years' experience OR equivalent combination of professional work experience, training and education. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Five (5) years' experience in Computer Science, Information Technology or Engineering.
• Executive management "C" level experience such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Information Officer, and Chief Technology Officer.

• Provide leadership in the selection, design, implementations, integration, and ongoing support for all information systems throughout the county.
• Provide leadership and planning to enhance and support data, voice, and network infrastructures and services.
• Provide leadership to enhance access to, and security for, all networked resources and information systems.
• Provide leadership and support for the development of technology to support instructional needs, including media, libraries, and distance education.
• Provide leadership for the development and maintenance of county-wide technology standards, policies and service agreements.
• Develop and maintain a strategic technology plan and associated tactical technology plans.
• Develop internal IT policies and procedures designed to improve work procedures and service quality.
• Review IT staff skills and develop appropriate training plans.
• Develop and monitor technology budget and project budget.
• Provide leadership for competitive technology procurements, vendor negotiations, and vendor partnerships.
• Communicate frequently and thoroughly to the county officials about technology projects and issues
• Collaborate with colleagues from other government and private-sector institutions to achieve mutual benefits.
• Keep abreast of, and apply to the county, federal and state laws and policies that affect the management or use of technology or information.
• Ensure that the implementation of technology will occur in an integrated manner designed for the benefit of administrative purposes.
• Prepare state reports on county technology and distance learning programs and grants.
• Provide regular status reports to the Treasurer and Department heads regarding projects, policies and operations.
• Research best practices in the use and management of technology.