Chief Innovation & Technology Officer (CITO)

Makwa Global, LLC • VA

116d

About The Position

The Chief Innovation & Technology Officer (CITO) will serve as a strategic executive leader responsible for driving innovation, technology strategy, and digital transformation initiatives across the enterprise. The CITO will ensure the alignment of emerging technologies with organizational goals, oversee IT operations, and foster a culture of innovation that enhances mission success, growth, and competitive advantage. This role will report directly to the CEO and work closely with the executive leadership team. Must have prior experience working directly with Department of Defense (DoD) agencies, with proven knowledge of federal contracting processes, compliance, and mission support.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 15 years of progressive leadership in IT, innovation, or digital transformation, with at least 7 years in an executive role.
• Proven track record of leading enterprise-wide technology and innovation initiatives in a federal contracting, defense, or highly regulated environment.
• Must have prior experience working directly with Department of Defense (DoD) agencies, with proven knowledge of federal contracting processes, compliance, and mission support.
• Deep knowledge of IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, data management, and emerging technologies.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to align technology initiatives to strategic business outcomes.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and change management skills.
• Experience managing large-scale budgets, technology investments, and vendor relationships.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a forward-looking innovation and technology strategy aligned with business growth objectives.
• Advise the CEO and executive team on emerging technologies, digital transformation opportunities, and competitive positioning.
• Lead cross-functional innovation initiatives to identify, test, and scale new ideas, solutions, and processes.
• Oversee IT systems, cybersecurity posture, and infrastructure to ensure secure, reliable, and scalable operations.
• Drive the adoption of advanced technologies (AI/ML, automation, cloud, data analytics, etc.) to improve efficiency, resilience, and customer outcomes.
• Modernize enterprise systems, ensuring compliance with federal contracting requirements (FAR, DFARS, CMMC, etc.) and industry best practices.
• Establish an innovation framework that encourages employees to contribute ideas, pilot projects, and continuous improvement.
• Partner with business development and operations leaders to identify technology-driven opportunities for new markets and services.
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with industry, academia, and government to enhance innovation capabilities.
• Lead and mentor IT, engineering, and innovation teams; foster a high-performing and collaborative culture.
• Ensure effective workforce planning, succession planning, and professional development within technology teams.
• Champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in technology leadership.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees