Vice President of Information Technology

Fortera Federal Credit Union•Clarksville, TN

About The Position

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Vice President of Information Technology (VP, IT) provides leadership to the Technology department in the planning, implementation, and integration of all information systems to fully support the Credit Union’s corporate vision while serving key business partners, internal stakeholders and Fortera’s membership. This IT Leader will work with the IT organization to deliver reliable, high-performance IT systems and infrastructure. This role will be charged with identifying cost and productivity improvements, developing security frameworks for IT assets, increasing IT process maturity, and improving integration. The VP, IT will provide a balanced approach between the need for ongoing execution focused IT services, and the delivery of a data strategy and new tech-forward capabilities to drive the transformation across the enterprise. They will design and implement a modern IT environment that will enable Fortera to accelerate its achievement of ambitious business objectives focused on enhanced digital member experience and process automation efficiencies for internal stakeholders. The VP, IT promotes a transparent and collaborative spirit while using their expertise and vision in the planning, budgeting, evaluation and implementation of company-wide initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer information systems or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
CISSP (Certified Information System Security Professional), PMP (Project Management Professional), ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) CEHv8 (Certified Ethical Hacker) certification preferred.
Strong knowledge of financial services industry standards and best practices related to banking systems including Fedwire, ACH.
Experience with vendors/associations such as Fiserv, FIS, The Clearing House, Visa, MasterCard preferred.
Understanding of industry best practices for cyber security and scalable infrastructure.
Knowledge of IT systems and infrastructure, with a background in designing/developing IT systems and planning IT implementation.
Advanced analytical/technical knowledge pertaining to decision analysis and financial/budget administration.
Understanding of PCI compliance & overall system security settings needed for payment systems.
Minimum of 15 years of technology experience including at least 10 years in senior management and/or executive roles in the financial services, consumer retail, or regulated industry.
10 years of supervisory experience to include coaching, counseling, evaluating and motivating team members to success.
Significant prior experience in a banking or credit union environments and NCUA exams preferred.
Demonstrated experience using a digital platform to create seamless membership experience and to acquire new members.
Strong track record of delivering results and creating a positive, high performing culture.
Demonstrated experience with direct oversight of hardware, server, networking and enterprise-wide and business unit-specific software applications, and data governance and information security.
Proven record of accomplishment in working within a Senior Leadership Team to set priorities, uphold organizational values while retaining a corporate culture, and creating competitive difference.
Proven experience with systems selection/implementation, high level program and project management, and IT security.
Demonstrated experience leading large-scale post-merger technology system integration.
Accurately assesses cultural environment, exhibiting emotional intelligence and appropriate sensitivity while maintaining individuality.
Strong oral, written and interpersonal communication skills; ability to work in a collaborative and effective manner.
Must have unquestioned personal integrity, professionalism, a positive work ethic, and an overall commitment to excellence and member service.
Outgoing and personable with an inclusive management style. Forward thinker with the ability to lead with honesty, transparency and a clear vision.
Preference for working in organizations that place priority on personal humility, diversity, inclusion, equity, teamwork and collaboration.
Ability to analyze complex challenges, effectively communicate recommendations, and gain consensus/agreement.
Excellent investigative, analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to recognize control weaknesses and opportunities for process/operational improvements and develop viable risk mitigation strategies.
Proven use of authority, management of responsibility, accountability and sound decision-making skills. Able to collaboratively drive successful change throughout an organization.
Ability to build trusting relationships with internal and external partners including vendors. Strong commitment to teamwork.
Strong technical background; experience working at the intersection of new tech and legacy systems.
Ability to function effectively as a change agent and problem solver in an industry facing rapid change and increased competition from other financial institutions and non-banking entities.
Strong negotiation skills.
Ability and willingness to travel locally and out-of-state for training and to various company worksites as needed.
Able to keep a company provided cellular phone for use in emergencies and disaster recovery situations.
Regular and predictable attendance.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
CISSP (Certified Information System Security Professional), PMP (Project Management Professional), ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) CEHv8 (Certified Ethical Hacker) certification preferred.
Experience with vendors/associations such as Fiserv, FIS, The Clearing House, Visa, MasterCard preferred.
Significant prior experience in a banking or credit union environments and NCUA exams preferred.

Responsibilities

Performs all responsibilities in accordance with Fortera Competencies and Information Protection requirements.
Appropriately assesses risk when business decisions are made. Demonstrates consideration for Fortera’s reputation and members and assets by driving compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, adhering to policy, applying sound ethical judgment regarding personal behavior, conduct and business practices, and escalating, managing and reporting control issues with transparency.
Develops and implements operational plans, policies and goals which further strategic objectives.
Continually evaluates established policies and procedures and updates or modifies them as necessary.
Promotes outstanding partnership and transparency across the IT department to ensure strong working relationships exist with all departments/organizations.
Manages and builds positive relationships with vendors and identifies strategic alliances to meet present and future needs while ensuring maximum benefit for the organization.
Fosters and develops long-term performance, learning and development of a diverse staff, promoting teamwork, effective communication, empowerment, practical creativity and collaboration.
Ensures that equipment, peripheral devices, and software are set up and operated in accordance with prescribed instructions. Researches and recommends equipment, software, and system updates.
Ensures that Information services' systems are secure, properly backed up, and appropriately documented.
Successfully builds and manages an IT/IS team that can effectively support the complex technical needs of the organization while reinforcing the mission and culture that makes Self-Help successful.
Employs methodologies/disciplines related to change management and recommends changes in the technology environment. Directs solid project management practices within the CU.
Takes primary responsibility for program implementation, technical support of the operating departments, and troubleshooting implementation errors. Participates in major third-party Fintech client relationships.
Effectively manages outside technology vendors and their associated contracts. Establishes SLA’s and tracks performance.
Efficiently utilizes external technical resources when needed.
Ensures the effectiveness of the CU’s Business Continuity Plan for Information Technology. Participates in the planning, development, documentation and implementation of the CU’s Business Continuity Plan.
Ensures compliance with all state and federal regulations within areas of responsibility.
Provides day-to-day oversight responsibility for ensuring compliance with regulatory laws as they related to functions within their departments to include OFAC, Bank Secrecy Act/Anti-Money Laundering Act, and USA Patriot Act compliance.
Participates in community and civic events to promote awareness of the Credit Union in the community.
Attends and participates in all meetings, trainings and committees as required.
Performs additional duties as assigned by management.
Ensures work area and assigned equipment are clean, secure and well-maintained.