"EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, APPLICATIONS - REMOTE IN CALIFORNIA"

Department Overview

The UC Information Technology (UC IT) department is a security-first, innovation-driven organization committed to delivering high-impact digital services. Through collaboration with partners, we serve as the digital impact engine for UC driving efficiency, enhancing experiences, and advancing the UC's mission. We foster an inclusive and supportive work environment, empowering our teams to develop forward-thinking solutions that shape the future of digital services across UC.

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 position directs a large, highly technical unit through subordinate supervisors/managers/directors who are responsible for development and testing of Enterprise, Web, and SaaS applications supporting all UCOP functions (e.g., administrative, payroll, pension, financial, student, and data services). Reporting to the Deputy Chief Information Officer, the Executive Director collaborates with senior IT and business leaders to define strategic goals, deliver high-quality, cost-effective technology solutions, and drive UC's digital transformation. This role leads modernization of legacy systems, alignment with enterprise architecture and data standards, and the adoption of emerging technologies including cloud-native platforms, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance development efficiency, improve service delivery, and support data-informed decision-making. The Executive Director leads a diverse team of employees and contractors, providing mentorship, strategic direction, and performance management while fostering an inclusive, collaborative culture focused on excellence in execution. Decisions in this role directly influence UCOP's operational effectiveness and the success of major systemwide technology initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• 50% Strategic and Technical Leadership | 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.
• 25% People and Partnership Management | Leads a diverse, high-performing team, fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture focused on accountability and results. Builds strong relationships with all stakeholders, systemwide partners, and external vendors to support organizational priorities and effective service delivery.
• 20% Operational Excellence and Governance | 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.
• 5% Reporting and Data-Driven Decision Making | 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. Encourages the team to use data to improve efficiency, code quality, and overall development outcomes.

Experience

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

Skills and Abilities

Required Qualifications

• 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 and foster outstanding teamwork.
• Skilled in adapting and integrating existing systems and vendor solutions within a complex technical environment, and in driving change initiatives with effective management of organizational and cross-location impacts.
• Comprehensive knowledge of subject area and broad knowledge of all IT areas sufficient for strategic planning, technology assessment and direction.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively present technical topics to large groups and senior management with potentially varied levels of technical sophistication.
• Experience working with senior management for IT planning and budgeting.
• Knowledge of ERPs, SaaS, and cloud infrastructure (AWS).

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

Education

Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced degree preferred.

Job Title

Information Systems Manager 3

Salary

$240,000 - $270,000

Additional Information

California residency requirement: California residents, or those willing to relocate*, who wish to work onsite, hybrid, or fully remote, will be considered.
This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer.

How to Apply

Please be prepared to attach a cover letter and resume with your application.

Application Review Date: The first review date for this job is 2/4/2026. The position will be open until filled.