Chief Information Officer

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) provides executive leadership and strategic direction for all information technology and technical functions within the County. The CIO oversees the County's IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, enterprise systems, and artificial intelligence programs and procedures. This position directly supervises the Director of Information Technology, Mapping & Applications, and Records Management, ensuring alignment of technology services across departments. The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary. Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processing employee concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining, and completing employee performance appraisals. Coordinates, assigns and reviews work and establishes work schedules; maintains standards; monitors status of work in progress; inspects completed work assignments; answers questions; gives advice and direction as needed. Develops and implements the County's IT and Mapping & Applications strategies and works closely regarding the technical broadcasting strategies aligned with countywide goals and statutory requirements. Advises the County Administrator, Deputy County Administrator, elected officials, and department heads on technology investments, risks, and implementation planning. Leads digital modernization initiatives that improve operational efficiency and enhance resident-facing services. Establishes IT governance policies, cybersecurity standards, and technology best practices for countywide consistency. Provides executive-level guidance during priority projects, major system upgrades, and countywide technology initiatives. Oversees the operation, maintenance, security, and modernization of the County's IT systems, including networks, servers, data centers, cloud platforms, enterprise applications, and cybersecurity programs. Develop and implements a County-wide artificial intelligence procedure, protocols, and processes for use for all County departments. Ensures high systems reliability to support public safety, emergency operations, and county government functions. Directs and approves large-scale IT projects, system implementations, and procurement of major technology solutions. Participates in the strategic planning by leading efforts to develop and apply technology solutions to the County's most critical needs. Ensures excellent customer service and technical support delivery across all county departments. Work closely with Beaufort County Broadcast Team and Public Information for all information technology issues, support and future expansion Supports leadership for live-streamed government meetings, public access channels, and digital media platforms while not directing content, messaging, or editorial decisions. Supports disaster recovery and continuity planning. Establishes countywide cybersecurity policies, risk mitigation strategies, and incident response protocols. Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local security requirements. Oversees data governance, privacy standards, disaster recovery, and continuity planning for IT across all County Departments. Develops and manages the technology operating and capital budgets. Oversees procurement of IT equipment, software, and services in accordance with county purchasing policies. Negotiates and manages contracts with vendors, service providers, and technology partners. Identifies cost efficiencies, revenue opportunities, and grant funding relevant to technology and broadcasting needs. Fosters a culture of accountability, innovation, customer service, and continuous improvement across all County Departments to ensure technology is being used to best serve both internal and external customers. Establishes the mission, goals and objectives for the IT, Mapping & Applications and Records Management Department. Develops and manages the operational and capital budgets for assigned departments. Provides mentoring, training opportunities, and succession planning for technology and broadcasting staff. Encourages cross-departmental collaboration to ensure effective use of technology resources. Performs related work as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Public Administration, or a related field. Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in information technology, computer science, information systems, computer engineering or a closely related field. At least five (5) years of experience in a senior management or executive leadership role. Government or public sector management experience preferred. All applicants tentatively selected for a position with Beaufort County Council will be required to submit to urinalysis to screen for the illegal use of drugs and to a background check prior to appointment. Employment is contingent upon clearing both the drug screening and background investigation.