Managing Director, Information Technology

National Assoc of Counties•Washington, DC

1d•$170,000 - $185,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Managing Director of Information Technology plays a critical role in shaping and executing NACo’s long-term technology strategy in alignment with the organization’s mission and priorities. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role leads the IT function and is responsible for infrastructure, cybersecurity, enterprise applications, and data management. This position requires a strategic leader who can drive innovation while ensuring reliable day-to-day operations. The Managing Director will guide NACo’s use of cloud platforms, data, and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve internal operations and member services. The role also serves as a key advisor to senior leadership on technology investments, risks, and opportunities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or a related field (Master’s preferred)
8-10 or more years of progressive IT leadership experience Experience leading technology strategy and digital transformation
Proven ability to align technology strategies with organizational mission and OKRs, driving innovation and operational excellence
Deep knowledge in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity frameworks, cloud platforms (Azure) and enterprise data management (D365)
Expertise in managing cybersecurity risk, regulatory compliance and implementing proactive threat management solutions
Skilled in leveraging data analytics and governance to support member services, organizational insights and decision-making processes
Ability to collaborate across departments and with senior leadership to ensure that technology initiatives contribute directly to NACo’s top-line objectives
Experience managing IT budgets, vendors and cross-functional initiatives in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Experience managing teams of 5 or more IT professionals
Familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Power Platform
Proven track record in association, membership, or government/public sector organizations
Strong communication skills with ability to present technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and board leadership
Ability and willingness to travel to support NACo conferences and events

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a multi-year technology roadmap aligned with NACo’s mission and organizational goals
Serve as a strategic partner to senior leadership, ensuring technology supports operational and member-facing priorities
Lead digital transformation efforts, including responsible adoption of AI and automation
Establish clear priorities, performance expectations, and accountability within the IT team
Foster a culture of service, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Identify, evaluate, and deploy emerging technologies, including AI-powered tools to improve internal workflows and member-facing services
Guide the responsible use of AI tools, including governance, risk management, and appropriate use standards
Partner with internal teams to improve systems and workflows
Ensure new solutions are scalable, secure, and aligned with organizational needs
Oversee IT infrastructure, including cloud environments (Azure), networking, and endpoint management systems (e.g., MDM, ATP)
Ensure systems are secure, reliable, and scalable to support organizational growth
Direct the management of enterprise applications, including Microsoft Dynamics 365, the E-Index and data integration platforms
Maintain inventory of all materially significant technical equipment (e.g., laptops, input devices, peripherals, network equipment, digital equipment, cameras, external storage devices, etc.)
Develop and govern NACo’s data strategy to strengthen analytics, reporting and data-driven decision-making across the organization
Ensure data integrity, accuracy and effective integration across enterprise systems
Partner with NACo departments to align technology systems with operational needs and improve efficiency
Lead NACo’s cybersecurity program aligned with recognized frameworks such as NIST or CIS Oversee risk management, disaster recovery and business continuity planning
Conduct annual penetration testing and vulnerability assessments to ensure the integrity of NACo’s cybersecurity defenses and identify areas for improvement
Lead annual tabletop exercises to simulate potential cybersecurity incidents and test NACo’s incident response and business continuity plans
Ensure the organization remains compliant with industry standards while proactively addressing emerging security challenges
Oversee third-party and vendor security considerations
Establish and manage strategic vendor partnerships and oversee contract negotiations to optimize service quality and cost
Establish standards for technology procurement and evaluation
Develop and manage the IT budget to optimize performance, cost-efficiency and value
Oversee the technical integration of all NACo software applications and partners with unit business owners on their procurement and maintenance of these systems to ensure compliance with NACo software and development standards
Perform other duties as assigned