Manager of Information Technology (IT)

The Des Moines Art Center is a museum, art school, and sculpture park that welcomes on average 350,000 visitors annually. One of the oldest cultural organizations in the state and a beacon of inspiration, innovation, and learning in the capital city of Iowa, the Art Center stewards an exceptional collection of art and architecture, stimulates profound conversations about art, ideas, and society, and inspires the creativity of new generations of artists. It exists to catalyze meaningful encounters with art and people and build creative, empathetic communities.

Position Summary

The Manager of Information Technology (IT) at the Des Moines Art Center is responsible for overseeing the organization's entire IT infrastructure and operations. This includes managing/supervising the IT/Database Specialist, defining and implementing IT strategies, and ensuring the efficient and secure operation of all technology systems and services. The Manager of IT will interact closely with other departments to understand their technological needs and develop innovative solutions to support business objectives. Additionally, the Manager of IT will stay on top of of emerging technologies and industry best practices to drive continuous improvement and innovation within the organization's IT environment.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader who is comfortable working with all departments and building strong, trusted relationships throughout the organization. This role offers the opportunity to engage in a wide range of IT functions, from strategic planning to hands-on problem-solving, making it well-suited for someone who enjoys variety and staying close to the work. The successful candidate is approachable, proactive, and able to translate technical concepts into practical solutions that support the organization.

Reporting Relationship

This role reports to the Chief Financial Officer, works closely with colleagues across the organization, and provides leadership to the IT Specialist.

Essential Functions

Strategic Planning

• Develops and implements IT strategies aligned with the organization's goals and objectives.
• Identifies opportunities for technological improvements and cost savings.

Leadership

• Leads and mentors IT-Database Specialist, including hiring, training and performance management.
• Fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement within the IT department.

IT Operations Management

• Oversees the day-to-day operations of the IT department, including hardware, software, networks, and systems administration.
• Ensures IT systems and infrastructure availability, performance, and security.
• Identifies opportunities for process improvement and efficiency gains within the IT department.
• Implements best practices and standards to optimize IT operations.
• Maintains accurate records and documentation of IT systems, activities, and procedures.
• Generates regular reports for management on IT performance, projects, and initiatives.

Budget Management

• Plans and manage the IT and Database budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Procures necessary hardware, software, and services within budgetary constraints.

Security and Compliance

• Ensures the security of IT systems, networks, and data and compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
• Develops and enforce IT security policies and procedures.

Technology Evaluation and Implementation

• Assesses new technologies and tools and recommend upgrades or enhancements as needed.
• Oversees the implementation of new IT systems and solutions.

Troubleshooting and Support

• Provides top-tier technical support to users, troubleshoot IT issues, and ensure timely resolution of problems
• Performs installation of new equipment, as well as performing corrective and preventive measures on existing equipment.

Vendor Management

• Manages relationships with IT vendors and service providers, negotiating contracts and ensuring service level agreements are met.
• Evaluates vendor performance and make recommendations for improvements or changes.

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

• Develop and maintain plans for disaster recovery and business continuity, ensuring IT systems can be quickly restored in the event of a disruption.
• Conduct regular tests and drills to validate the effectiveness of these plans.

Education, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or related field
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in a related field
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as interpersonal and customer service skills
• Strong technical skills in IT systems, network infrastructure, and enterprise technologies with hands-on proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Fortinet security solutions, and Aruba networking platforms.
• Knowledge of applicable data privacy practices and laws
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from peers, managers, and personnel from various departments within the organization.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

The Des Moines Art Center offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package supporting employee health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) and employer Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions; a generous retirement match; paid time off and holidays; and hybrid work options for some roles. Additional offerings include life and disability insurance, as well as voluntary accident and critical illness coverage.

Employment at the Art Center is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check, which we conduct in compliance with all Federal, State, and Local laws.