Vice President of Administration and Chief Information Officer

Walsh University invites applications for the position of Vice President of Administration and Chief Information Officer (VP of Administration/CIO). Reporting to the President, the VP of Administration/CIO is responsible for overseeing information technology, physical plant operations, and capital projects for the institution. This dual-titled position plays a crucial role in integrating planning and service delivery while leading the ongoing commitment to support and promote the strategic use of information technology, facilities management, and infrastructure development to advance the overall mission of the organization.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Information Technology:

• Oversee the IT and computer systems that support enterprise goals.
• Manage IT staff and develop department goals.
• Develop and oversee the IT budget.
• Plan, deploy, and maintain IT systems and operations.
• Manage the organization’s software development needs.
• Develop IT policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Stay updated on IT trends and emerging technologies.
• Ensure IT strategies and processes support organization-wide goals.
• Oversee relationships with vendors, contractors, service providers, and other colleges/universities.
• Oversee the data security and cyber-exposure of the University.

Physical Plant:

• Develop and implement long-term plans for facility maintenance and renovations aligned with organizational goals.
• Oversee all aspects of physical plant operations, including maintenance, custodial services, utilities management, and groundskeeping.
• Prepare and manage the physical plant’s annual operating budget.
• Monitor expenditures to ensure cost-effectiveness and adherence to budgetary constraints.
• Evaluate opportunities for energy efficiency and cost savings in facility operations.

Capital Projects:

• Lead and provide oversight for planning and executing all small and large capital building projects, including new construction and renovation.
• Work closely with Project Management/Capital Planning in project design, planning, and implementation.
• Oversee the entire project lifecycle, from conceptualization to completion.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, and construction teams to ensure projects are completed within established budgets and timelines.
• Ensure that capital projects align with the organization’s strategic goals and programmatic requirements.
• Oversee the bidding process and contractor selection for capital projects.
• Monitor project progress and provide regular updates to senior leadership.

General Administration:

• Develop and implement policies and procedures for IT, physical plant, and capital projects.
• Manage budgets and resources across all areas of responsibility.
• Provide recommendations on prudent investments in technology and infrastructure.
• Coordinate the integration of multiple technologies and systems across the organization.
• Develop, implement, and monitor readiness of security, emergency response, and back-up plans.

Required Qualifications

Must understand and support the Mission, Vision and Code of Ethical Conduct of Walsh University, as a Catholic higher education university as expressed in Ex Corde Ecclesiae, and possess the following:

• Proven leadership experience in applying computing and information technologies in support of administrative and/or academic objectives.
• Demonstrated experience with computer and network security in a large organizational environment.
• Strong understanding of facilities management and capital project planning.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and strategic planning skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Experience in budget management and resource allocation.

Education: Master’s degree in Business Administration, Information Systems, or a related field.

Work Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in information technology, facilities management, and capital project oversight. At least 3-5 years of experience in senior leadership or executive level positions within IT-departments preferred.

Skills and abilities: Professional demeanor and ability to interact with charity towards students, staff and faculty. Positive attitude a must.

Walsh University is located in North Canton, Ohio. Walsh University is an independent, coeducational Catholic, liberal arts and sciences institution. Founded by the Brothers of Christian Instruction, Walsh University is dedicated to educating its students to become leaders in service to others through a values-based education with an international perspective in the Judeo-Christian tradition.

Walsh University believes in the desirability of a small university that promotes academic excellence, a diverse community and close student-teacher interactions. The University provides its students a higher education that fosters critical thinking, effective communication, spiritual growth, and personal, professional and cultural development. Walsh University encourages individuals to act in accordance with reason guided by the example and teachings of Jesus Christ.

Walsh University is being assisted by Hyatt – Fennell, Executive Search. Applications should be submitted via email to WalshCIO@hyatt-fennell.com and will be reviewed as they are received. Applications include a letter of interest, a current résumé/cv, and contact information for five professional references, submitted in separate documents. The position will remain open until filled. All applications and nominations will be considered highly confidential.

Walsh University is committed to principles of equal opportunity and is an equal opportunity employer.