Chief Information Officer; EMS Band 04

Mission

Promote public safety, public health, and trust through fair administration, education, and enforcement of liquor, cannabis, tobacco and vapor laws.

Safe communities for Washington State.

We are hiring a Chief Information Officer (CIO) to guide our technology resources and inspire our teams. As a key member of the Agency Leadership Team, the CIO contributes to the agency strategy, sets short‑and long‑range plans for WSLCB’s technology strategy, and balances innovation, resource allocation, risk management, and alignment with the agency’s priorities.

The CIO leads a division of 46 staff, including six direct reports, and is accountable for a $16 million biannual operating budget, contract and vendor management.

The role ensures the strength and reliability of WSLCB’s technology infrastructure, applications, data and information management, security, and compliance program. The CIO provides executive IT sponsorship for major projects, including the agency’s custom licensing, education, enforcement and administrative data system (LEEADS).

• Develop and execute Information Technology strategic plans, resource allocation, and risk management to align services, products, and projects with agency and statewide IT policy.
• Oversee the design, development, operation and support of IT systems and programs that meet business needs, covering enterprise architecture, application management, security, infrastructure, and operations.
• Engage HR, Finance and stakeholders to design IT workforce transformation scenarios, develop IT workforce strategy and action plans, and maintain a skilled and balanced IT workforce.
• Set operational and strategic priorities, communicate them to staff and customers, and ensure technology and business standards are adopted.
• Implement and support operational compliance programs, analyze conformance to laws, rules, policies and standards, and collaborate with leadership to execute the digital business strategy.

Required Education, Experience, and Competencies

Education to experience equivalency (experience may be gained concurrently).

Associate’s degree = 2 years
Bachelor’s degree = 4 years
Master’s degree = 5 years

Experience

9 years of combined relevant experience and education in computer science, information technology, public administration, public affairs or closely related fields.

Experience Must Include

• Leading a team of senior IT managers and professional staff
• Advanced knowledge and expertise in managing diverse IT systems, solutions, and tools
• Expert, in-depth knowledge and experience making strategic and operational decisions considering employment laws, rules and policies
• Experience developing and delivering IT strategy, considering customer and external stakeholder needs
• Experience building and managing an operating budget
• Experience managing technology contracts, including strong vendor management
• Experience independently sponsoring IT projects using recognized methodologies such as PMI or PRINCE2
• Knowledge of the Legislative and rule making processes, performing bill analyses and preparing/reviewing fiscal notes
• Experience managing cybersecurity standards and practices and other IT policies and procedures

Leadership Qualities

• Accepts personal responsibility and delivers excellent results
• Develops innovative solutions and makes timely decisions with limited data
• Builds and maintains relationships based on trust, respect, and professionalism
• Communicates effectively with clarity, persuasion and plain talk; listens actively and asks clarifying questions
• Exploits sound judgment and advanced critical thinking in complex situations
• Upholds DEIB values and commits to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

• A comprehensive benefits package (Medical/Dental/Vision, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance, etc.)
• Paid Vacation, Leave, and Holidays
• Tuition Waiver and Reimbursement for state university courses
• Training and career development programs including online courses and Linked In Learning
• Healthy work/life balance with flexible schedules and telework options when possible
• Employee Assistance Program and generous wellness program
• On‑site exercise…