Chief Technology Officer

CHAMPION CREDIT UNION•Canton, NC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is the executive leader responsible for the strategic direction, technology innovation, and performance of the credit union’s information technology, information security, digital banking, data management, and technology infrastructure functions. The CTO ensures technology investments, systems, and digital capabilities support exceptional member experiences, operational excellence, organizational growth, and long-term business objectives. Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Leadership Team, the CTO executes organizational strategy, strengthens cybersecurity and information security programs, advances digital transformation, promotes data-driven decision-making, and positions the credit union to meet evolving member, regulatory, and business needs. The role provides executive leadership and oversight for assigned functions, including departmental strategy, resource allocation, talent development, and achievement of organizational objectives. The position is based at the Administrative Office in Canton, North Carolina. It is full-time, day shift, and requires a four-year degree or equivalent experience. Travel and overtime may be required as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, Cybersecurity, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
At least 10 years of progressive experience in information technology, digital banking, cybersecurity, or related technology functions.
At least 5 years of executive or senior leadership experience.
Demonstrated experience leading technology strategy, cybersecurity programs, digital transformation, and enterprise technology initiatives.
Ability to think strategically and align technology functions with business objectives.
Ability to lead through senior leaders and build accountability across multiple functions.
Strong understanding of financial services technology and digital banking ecosystems.
Knowledge of cybersecurity, information security, and technology risk management practices.
Strong business acumen and decision-making ability.
Ability to lead enterprise-wide technology and digital transformation initiatives.
Understanding of data governance, business intelligence, and data-driven decision-making.
Demonstrated ability to lead organizational change and drive adoption of strategic initiatives.
Ability to build relationships and collaborate with executive leadership, managers, employees, community partners, and external stakeholders.
Strong project and priority management skills, including the ability to balance multiple strategic initiatives.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and manage sensitive organizational matters.
Ability and willingness to travel and work overtime as needed.
Physical ability to regularly sit and/or stand; frequently use hands for handling, typing, and operating standard office equipment; walk, hear, and communicate verbally; occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds; and perform tasks requiring close vision and adjustment of focus.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Experience in financial services or another highly regulated industry preferred.
Professional certifications related to high-level management and strategic leadership are desirable.

Responsibilities

Align technology investments, systems, and departmental resources with organizational goals and long-term business needs.
Provide strategic oversight of technology infrastructure, systems architecture, enterprise applications, network operations, telecommunications, and technology support.
Ensure technology systems and infrastructure remain secure, reliable, scalable, and able to support current operations and future growth.
Direct technology modernization and digital transformation strategies to improve operational efficiency, employee capabilities, and member experiences.
Evaluate emerging technologies and industry developments to identify opportunities for innovation, automation, and competitive advantage.
Establish technology governance and prioritization processes that align projects, system enhancements, and investments with organizational objectives.
Establish digital banking strategies that support evolving member expectations, organizational growth, operational efficiency, and financial performance.
Assess emerging technologies, industry trends, and member needs to identify opportunities to enhance or expand services.
Ensure systems and processes are scalable, resilient, and appropriately integrated with the credit union’s broader technology environment.
Ensure safeguards, governance structures, policies, and controls protect organizational systems, payment platforms, data, and member information.
Monitor emerging cybersecurity, payment, operational, regulatory, and third-party risks and guide mitigation strategies.
Ensure business continuity and disaster recovery capabilities support timely restoration of critical technology and payment services.
Ensure technology and payment initiatives deliver measurable organizational value and achieve intended business outcomes.
Establish an enterprise approach to data governance, data quality, and information management.
Promote effective use of data, reporting, and analytics to support organizational decision-making.
Oversee departmental budgets and resource allocation within assigned areas of responsibility.
Lead and develop direct reports, including performance evaluation, coaching, and succession planning.
Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, including the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), OFAC and the Patriot Act, and state and federal laws.
Perform additional duties as assigned.