Chief Technology Officer
NYSERNet is a non-profit organization. Our mission is to advance the research and educational missions of our members by delivering a full range of customized, progressive, and affordable end-to-end data and networking technology solutions.
Job Summary
Under the supervision of the VP/COO, and in collaboration with the Chief Network Architect (CNA), the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is responsible for leading technical service development efforts, recommending technological solutions to address NYSERNet’s business needs, contributing to development and implementation of NYSERNet’s strategic vision, and promoting NYSERNet’s technological advantages and member services within and outside of our community.
The CTO is a New York City-based position. The CTO will occasionally be called upon to provide remote hands-on support at NYSERNet’s colocation facilities in Manhattan and at NYSERNet network Points-of-Presence on Long Island, in the Hudson River Valley, and other locations, generally, though not exclusively, within 200 miles of Manhattan.
The CTO plays a direct supervisory role relative to NYSERNet’s Network Operations Center and Information Technology department. NYSERNet’s Network Operations Center (NOC) Manager and IT Director/CISO report to the CTO.
Responsibilities
- Lead product and service development efforts, including identifying opportunities and member requirements, developing specifications, designing and evaluating technical solutions, piloting services with members, and working with staff and members to bring new services to market.
- Represent the interests of NYSERNet and its member community through service on national, state and regional technology-related working groups.
- Participate in sales engagements as a technical expert on NYSERNet’s product and service portfolio, serving as a sales and implementation engineer where appropriate.
- NYSERNet is a small organization that relies on its staff members’ flexibility regarding roles, responsibilities, and tasks. As such, the CTO is expected to embrace making contributions to our collaborative efforts, including the willingness to be hands-on with technology and to serve in the NYSERNet 24x7 on-call rotation.
- Identify opportunities to employ technology for business advantage, helping staff and departments within NYSERNet, and our members, deploy and use new technologies. Evaluate new technology and makes recommendations regarding technological solutions.
In addition, the CTO is expected to:
- Supervise system infrastructure to ensure functionality and efficiency
- Use stakeholders’ feedback to inform necessary improvements and adjustments to technology and services
- Represent the technological agenda in staff meetings and when making hiring decisions
- Maintain current knowledge of technology landscape and developments
- Take the initiative in thought leadership, innovation, and creativity
- Develop and direct safeguards to reduce the risk of outside breaches and protect sensitive information
- Oversee the IT budget to make sure there are no unnecessary expenditures
- Consistently evaluate the technical efficiency and makes changes as necessary
- Identify competitive advantages and technological trends
- Direct the development and possible implementation of NYSERNet’s disaster recovery plans and strategy
Requirements and Qualifications
Strategic thinking and strong business acumen are essential in this role. The CTO must be well-versed in current technological trends. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential. Other qualifications include:
- Proven experience as a CTO or similar leadership role
- Understanding of budgets and business-planning
- Ability to conduct technological analyses and research
- Leadership and organizational abilities
- Problem-solving aptitude
- BS/BA in Computer Science, Engineering or a related field; MBA or MS in Computer Science, Information Science or related fields is preferred.
Working Conditions
Must be available for occasional weekend and evening work to meet project deadlines, and on-call for escalated problems. Occasional travel to NYSERNet’s Syracuse office, to customer locations, and elsewhere is required.
For immediate consideration, interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, three professional references, and certifications.