Job Details

JOB SUMMARY:

The Director of IT at Skyward Credit Union is responsible for providing strategic leadership, direction, and oversight of all technology operations and initiatives. This role ensures that IT supports the credit union's growth objectives, regulatory compliance, member experience, and operational efficiency. The Director of IT will lead the organization on its Artificial Intelligence and data journey, leveraging emerging technologies and advanced analytics to enhance decision-making, improve member services, and drive innovation across the enterprise. The Director will chair the Technology Committee, manage a high-performing IT team, guide enterprise-wide technology strategy, and ensure robust cybersecurity and compliance frameworks that scale with the credit union's growth.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

IT Strategy & Governance

• Develop and execute IT strategy aligned with organizational objectives, regulatory requirements, and growth plans.
• Lead enterprise-wide technology planning, including AI initiatives, digital transformation, core banking systems, and member-facing platforms.
• Chair the Technology Committee, providing governance, oversight, and prioritization of IT initiatives across the organization.
• Establish IT governance practices, ensuring all initiatives are prioritized, resourced, and delivered effectively.
• Oversee business continuity, disaster recovery, and enterprise risk management related to IT systems.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the IT team, including Project Management, Support Specialists, and Systems Administration.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing culture focused on operational excellence, innovation, and member-centric solutions.
• Conduct performance reviews, set departmental goals, and manage succession planning for key IT positions.

Infrastructure & Systems Management

• Ensure high availability, reliability, and scalability of IT infrastructure, including core banking systems, cloud services, network, and enterprise applications.
• Oversee configuration, deployment, and ongoing support of technology systems across the organization.
• Evaluate emerging technologies, including AI and advanced analytics, to enhance operational efficiency and member experience.

Cybersecurity & Compliance

• Develop and maintain an enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategy to safeguard member data and IT assets.
• Ensure compliance with NCUA, FFIEC, PCI-DSS, and other regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with audit and compliance teams to implement and maintain IT policies, controls, and risk mitigation measures.

Vendor Management

• Manage relationships with technology vendors, consultants, and service providers, including contract negotiations, SLAs, and performance management.
• Evaluate and select new technology solutions to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Project Management

• Oversee IT projects from conception through execution, ensuring on-time delivery, budget adherence, and quality standards.
• Conduct cost-benefit analysis for IT investments, optimizing technology spend.

Budgeting and Resource Management

• Develop, manage, and monitor the IT department budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
• Provide input to capital planning for technology investments aligned with long-term organizational growth goals.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvement, and increased operational efficiency.

Digital Innovation and Member Experience

• Drive digital banking initiatives and technology solutions to enhance the member experience.
• Evaluate and implement emerging fintech solutions, AI applications, and data-driven technologies to support strategic objectives.
• Provide thought leadership on the application of technology to improve credit union operations, decision-making, and service delivery.

Executive Collaboration and Reporting

• Collaborate with the CFO and executive leadership team to align technology initiatives with business strategy.
• Provide updates to the board of directors as needed on strategic IT projects, cybersecurity posture, AI initiatives, and technology-related risks.
• Serve as the chair of the Technology Committee, guiding strategic decisions on IT governance, innovation, and resource allocation.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field.
• 5–8 years of IT experience, including team leadership or project management.
• Experience with IT infrastructure, cloud services, network management, and enterprise systems.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices and regulatory compliance.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
• Experience with AI, data analytics, or emerging technologies is a plus.

COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to manage IT projects and operations effectively.
• Strong team leadership and development skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving mindset.
• Adaptability to evolving technology and regulatory environments.
• Growth mindset and willingness to learn emerging technologies.
• Governance and committee leadership experience.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Office environment with occasional travel to branch locations.
• Flexibility in working hours may be required to accommodate system maintenance, project deadlines, or crisis management.
• Full-time position with on-call availability for critical IT incidents.

BENEFITS:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Performance-based annual bonus opportunity
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generously matched 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

Skyward Credit Union is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.