Director of IT Operations and Cybersecurity

Vantage•Deerfield, IL

About The Position

The Director of IT Operations and Cybersecurity is a senior technology leader responsible for global IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, desktop support, and service desk functions. This role ensures secure, resilient, and scalable IT services across the enterprise, including management of cloud platforms, network operations, OT environments, and end-user computing. The role leads global teams and partners cross-functionally to align IT operations with business priorities.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; Master’s degree or equivalent experience preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in IT operations and/or Infrastructure, with at least 5 years in a leadership role across a global organization.
Proven expertise in: Global Azure administration and hybrid cloud operations
Microsoft 365 platform (Exchange, Teams, SharePoint, Intune, Defender)
Global Enterprise networking, including SD-WAN, firewalls, and VPN technologies
Operational Technology (OT) networks and integration with IT systems
Data security best practices, including encryption, DLP, access controls, and compliance
Strong understanding of cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001) and IT governance.
Experience with ITSM tools, infrastructure monitoring platforms, and identity/access management solutions.
Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

Infrastructure & Cloud Operations Lead global IT infrastructure including Azure cloud, Microsoft 365 administration, on-prem systems, storage, and hybrid environments.
Oversee networking strategy, including enterprise LAN/WAN, SD-WAN architecture, VPN access, and remote workforce enablement.
Ensure stability and scalability of systems supporting both corporate IT and operational (OT) environments.
Drive automation, standardization, and modernization initiatives across infrastructure platforms.
Develop and execute a global cybersecurity roadmap covering identity, access, network security, and endpoint protection.
Oversee vulnerability management, threat detection, incident response, and compliance with frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001, and CIS Controls.
Establish data security standards across cloud and on-prem platforms, including encryption, data loss prevention (DLP), and classification policies.
Oversee governance of data residency, retention, and privacy compliance (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).
Manage threat detection, incident response, vulnerability management, and third-party risk across both IT and OT systems.
Lead global service desk and desktop support teams, ensuring high user satisfaction and adherence to SLAs.
Define ITSM processes and drive continuous improvement through metrics and automation.
Standardize device management, patching, and support tooling across regions and business units.
Build and lead a global, high-performing IT operations team; mentor direct reports across infrastructure, security, and support.
Collaborate with enterprise architects, application owners, and business stakeholders to ensure infrastructure supports digital initiatives.
Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and enterprise licensing for platforms including Microsoft 365, Azure, SD-WAN providers, and cybersecurity tools.
Own and evolve the disaster recovery and business continuity strategy