Chief Operating Officer

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Chief Information Officer (CIO), the Chief Operating Officer (COO) serves as a senior executive responsible for the strategic coordination and operational oversight of the OCIO for approximately 300 employees. This role functions as a trusted advisor to the CIO as an operational leader with delegated authority to ensure execution of enterprise IT strategies. The position integrates strategy, governance, and operations across multiple OCIO divisions, ensuring alignment with agency priorities, effective service delivery, and organizational accountability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field
Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in IT, operations, or enterprise program management
At least three years in a senior leadership role
Regular and reliable attendance required
Knowledge of Enterprise IT operations, including infrastructure, applications, cybersecurity, etc.
Knowledge of IT governance frameworks and best practices
Knowledge of Strategic planning, performance management, and organizational leadership
Ability to translate strategy into actionable plans and results
Ability to lead and influences across the large OCIO organization
Ability to balance strategic priorities with operational demands
Ability to analyze complex issues and implement effective solutions
Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-visibility environment
Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree (MBA, MPA, or related field)
Experience in a large public sector or government IT environment
Experience in as a Chief of Staff, COO, Deputy Director, or similar executive role
Relevant certifications (e.g., ITIL, PMP, Certified Government CIO)

Responsibilities

Serves as an advisor to the CIO, providing strategic guidance, executive-level coordination, and decision support on OCIO IT priorities.
In conjunction with C-Level staff, executes the organization's strategic plan.
Oversees day-to-day operations of the OCIO enterprise, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and service expectations.
Leads OCIO governance processes, including project prioritization and decision-making.
Coordinates cross-functional IT activities across infrastructure, applications, cybersecurity, etc.
Establishes and monitors performance metrics, including KPIs and SLAs, to drive accountability and improvement.
Provides oversight of major OCIO projects and initiatives to ensure delivery scope, schedule, and budget.
Supports the IT budget through resource allocation across the organization.
Identifies risks and implements strategies to ensure continuity and effectiveness of IT services.
Leads process improvement efforts to increase efficiency and service quality.
Facilitates communication between OCIO high level leadership, agency leadership, and stakeholders.
May supervise senior managers and support workforce planning and organizational design.
Other duties as assigned and within the scope of the classification.

Benefits

13 paid holidays
Vacation and sick leave that begin accruing immediately
Military leave
156% state-matched retirement
Tuition reimbursement
Employee assistance program
79% employer paid health insurance plans
Dental and vision insurance plans
Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
Training and Development based on your career aspirations
Fun, inviting teammates
A safe and secure environment