Executive Director Remote

Position Summary

The Executive Director of Applications within Information Technology Services at the University of California Office of the President (UCOP) provides strategic and operational leadership for a large, complex portfolio of enterprise applications supporting both UCOP and systemwide initiatives. The role directs a highly technical unit, collaborates with senior IT and business leaders, and leads modernization of legacy systems, alignment with enterprise architecture, and adoption of emerging technologies such as cloud-native platforms, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI).

• Strategic and Technical Leadership (50%) – Provides vision and direction for the Application organization, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and IT strategy. Leads modernization and lifecycle management of enterprise applications, leveraging cloud technologies, automation, AI, and emerging tools to optimize value, cost, and performance.
• People and Partnership Management (25%) – Leads a diverse, high-performing team, fosters an inclusive and collaborative culture focused on accountability and results. Builds strong relationships with stakeholders, partners, and external vendors to support organizational priorities and effective service delivery.
• Operational Excellence and Governance (20%) – Ensures delivery of secure, reliable, and cost-effective application services through strong governance, standards, and performance management. Drives operational consistency, compliance, and continuous improvement while managing budgets, vendors, and technology investments.
• Reporting and Data-Driven Decision Making (5%) – Develops and maintains reporting and analytics tools that provide meaningful insights into team performance and project delivery. Defines key metrics and dashboards to track progress, identify trends, and support informed decision making.

• Over 10 years of experience managing an Information Technology organization and/or equivalent experience.

• Proven experience leading large‑scale system implementations and legacy system transformations while leveraging modern development and testing technologies.
• Demonstrated experience creating a diverse team and cultivating an innovative, inclusive, and supportive work environment.
• Highly developed people‑management and leadership skills with experience building high‑performing teams.
• Skilled in adapting and integrating existing systems and vendor solutions within a complex technical environment.
• Comprehensive knowledge of subject matter and broad IT knowledge sufficient for strategic planning and technology assessment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including presenting technical topics to large groups and senior management.
• Experience working with senior management for IT planning and budgeting.
• Knowledge of ERPs, SaaS, and cloud infrastructure (AWS).

• Knowledge of Agile, SDLC, and the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL).
• Experience with Information Security and Privacy best practices.
• Understanding of disaster recovery and business continuity capabilities.

• Required:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in a related field and/or equivalent experience/training.
• Preferred:
  Advanced degree.

Job Title: Information Systems Manager 3
Job Code: 000669
Salary Grade: 29
Payscale: $240,000 – $270,000

California residency requirement: California residents or those willing to relocate, who wish to work onsite, hybrid, or fully remote, will be considered.

Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer.

Application Requirements: Please attach a cover letter and resume with your application.

Application Review Date: 2/4/2026 – The position will be open until filled.

• Background Check Process:
  Successful completion of a background check is required.
• Smoke Free Work Environment:
  The University of California is smoke & tobacco‑free as of January 1, 2014.
• Vaccination Policy:
  Compliance with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs.
• Disciplinary Disclosures:
  Finalists must disclose any final administrative or judicial decisions related to misconduct within the last seven years.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

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