Chief Data Officer (Data Systems Administrator)

Illinois Secretary of State • Springfield, IL

32d • Onsite

About The Position

Leads and directs a statewide enterprise data program through subordinate supervisory staff, overseeing technical, professional, and analytical teams responsible for data governance, data architecture, data quality, and enterprise data management activities. This role is responsible for establishing a vision and strategy for data across the organization, ensuring its alignment with business goals, compliance requirements, and enterprise architecture standards.

Requirements

• Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to completion of four years college preferably with courses in computer science, management information systems, mathematics or statistics supplemented by a master's degree in computer science or a related field and two years of managerial experience in a computer-based management information system.
• Requires thorough knowledge of management information system, data base administration, systems analysis and computer communication systems.
• Requires thorough knowledge of the principles of organization, management and administration.
• Requires extensive knowledge of research and statistical procedures, program budgeting and systems modeling.
• Requires ability to implement program evaluations or system assurance.
• Requires ability to anticipate and resolve managerial problems.
• Requires willingness to travel and possession of a valid Illinois driver’s license as required by individual positions within the class.
• Requires the ability to lift, carry, and push/pull 0-50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Program Leadership and Oversight - Through subordinate supervisors, plans, organizes, directs, and evaluates the work of data analysts, data stewards, architects, and technical staff supporting enterprise data initiatives, including data quality assessment, metadata management, master data management, and governance policy enforcement. Participate in hiring and workforce planning activities for the Enterprise Data Management team.
• Enterprise Data Governance Frameworks and Standards - Develops and implements procedures, policies, and governance frameworks for enterprise data use across all departments. Establishes standards for data stewardship, metadata, lineage, and classification. Approves or refines recommendations from subordinate staff regarding department-specific data governance implementation, ensuring consistency and scalability across the organization.
• Strategic Planning and Policy Development - Analyzes and recommends data strategy enhancements and enterprise-wide data management policies to the Department Director. Leads the creation of long-range data plans that support enterprise goals and digital transformation efforts. Identifies data architecture enhancements, oversees enterprise data integration planning, and ensures alignment with statewide technology initiatives.
• Consultation and Advisory Services - Serves as the enterprise advisor to division managers statewide regarding data strategy, governance adoption, data-driven decision-making, and compliance with regulatory and internal standards. Provides guidance on organizational readiness for advanced analytics, data modernization efforts, and new data technologies.
• Budgetary and Investment Planning - Provides expert consultation on the development of proposed budgets related to enterprise data systems, platforms, and tools. Reviews and advises on strategic investments in data technology and services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and alignment with data strategy and business needs.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Communication - Maintains ongoing communication and engagement with department leaders across all divisions to advocate for enterprise data initiatives and educate teams on data governance practices. Leads forums, working groups, and training initiatives to foster a data-literate culture. Maintains contact with external data platform vendors, regulatory bodies, and industry peers to stay informed of data management advancements and opportunities for the Office of the Secretary of State.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager