Director of Innovation & Technology

City of Sioux Falls•City of Sioux Falls, SD

About The Position

The Director of Innovation and Technology bears ultimate responsibility for the overall operation, planning, development, and administration of the City’s Innovation and Technology department. The role fosters a culture of innovation, operational excellence, and continuous improvement through the effective use of data and technology across City departments. It is responsible for the Information Technology, Communications, and Civic Analytics divisions. The Director oversees citywide technology planning and implementation, communications strategy and channels, and civic analytics and data initiatives. The position also leads the City’s enterprise artificial intelligence strategy, including governance, policy development, risk management, and implementation of AI solutions intended to improve municipal services and operational effectiveness. The role supervises employees, exercises specified personnel authority, and is responsible for departmental budgeting and financial controls.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in business administration, public administration, public relations, computer science, or a related field.
At least eight years of experience in one or more of the specified fields.
At least five years of experience at a division manager level, or an acceptable combination of education, experience, and training.
Ability and experience leading, motivating, and managing personnel.
Ability and experience in conflict management and resolution.
Ability to think creatively and innovatively to positively affect City operations.
Knowledge of how technology can advance organizational objectives and improve processes and business operations.
Knowledge of media relations, public information practices, social media strategy, crisis communications, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach principles.
Knowledge of digital accessibility standards, ADA requirements, and inclusive technology practices.
Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills.
Ability and experience in project management.
Ability to collaborate effectively with departments, divisions, and staff.
Ability to work effectively with, advise, and inform legislative bodies, citizen groups, media, employees, and the general public.
Ability to manage financial activities, including short- and long-range planning, analysis, and budget functions.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Strategic planning skills and ability to promote and effect change.
Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.

Nice To Haves

Possession of a valid driver’s license is desirable.

Responsibilities

Direct the planning and management of the Information Technology Division, including system analysis and design, network security, project management, programming, computer operations, training, equipment maintenance, software and hardware selection, and vendor management.
Lead development, adoption, and implementation of a citywide information technology roadmap that balances initiatives with available resources.
Direct the planning and management of the Communications Division, including internal and external communications, document and desktop publishing, government access channels, website and intranet administration, social media, citizen engagement and inquiry systems, and related communication vehicles.
Direct the planning and management of the Civic Analytics Division, including developing citywide data policies, procedures, and standards to support analysis and data-driven decisions.
Oversee citywide Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the City’s Enterprise Asset Management Systems (EAMS).
Lead City efforts to collect, analyze, and disseminate appropriate data to the public and across City departments.
Promote accessible, open data systems and related applications.
Lead the City’s enterprise artificial intelligence strategy, including governance, policy development, risk management, and implementation of AI solutions.
Identify and deploy high-value AI initiatives, promote responsible and ethical AI use, and foster cross-departmental collaboration to advance innovation, efficiency, and data-informed decision-making.
Supervise employees and make final decisions concerning hiring, discharge, layoff, suspension, disciplinary action, grievance adjustment, and employee performance evaluations.
Submit an annual departmental budget request and ensure departmental spending and obligations do not exceed appropriations, except as specifically provided.
Maintain professional awareness of technological advances to ensure innovative, efficient, productive, and cost-effective practices.
Perform other duties and functions necessary or incidental to the proper performance of the position.