Supervisor, IT Operations

SUMMARY   

This position will be responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of a multi-functional IT department, by providing direct guidance for process improvements, standardization efforts, technology deployment, customer support and strategic and tactical implementations.  This position will report to. In collaboration with the IT leadership team, this position will be responsible for implementing the IT operations strategy for systems planning, networks, database management, data processing, information and data security, and applications support.  The Supervisor is responsible for ensuring that technology risks are identified and managed according to the risk culture of the enterprise and advises senior management about risks to the business due to the implementation of technology used to operate the business.  Exchanges information with professional staff and offers assistance in addressing workflow needs.  Aids the senior management in department strategic planning. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Responsible for understanding and managing risks associated with information systems, which may include, databases and application platforms and networks, establishing policies and procedures, developing a comprehensive, integrated architecture, monitoring practices surrounding the availability of company data, coordination of disaster recovery and business continuity plans for the infrastructure and will increase security awareness across the organization and the business.
• Oversees the Company infrastructure, applications, systems, desktops, storage to ensure proper uptime and availability.
• Effectively coordinate the efforts of staff with other departments in Information Technology to ensure highest level of cooperation and efficiency of team members while instilling a cohesive team environment.
• Participates in planning, development, and management of all aspects of the IT Operations team.
• Engage in and support strategy discussions.  Proactively identify opportunities to reach business goals, assess scope, and identify where challenges may exist. 

• Keep manager informed of sensitive and complex issues.  Provide alternatives and recommendations for management consideration and decision-making.

• Serve as manager designee in the absence of the manager. 

• Participates in development of annual departmental budget, monitors budget, and identifies budget discrepancies.  Research cause and makes recommendations.
• Coordinates project activities including project charter development, project plan development, monitoring and reporting.
• Manage external vendor relationships, contracts and service levels pursuant to assigned area.
• Stay abreast of trends and regulations to ensure effectiveness and compliance.
• Communicate, clearly and concisely, the technical direction of the department in terms of supporting departments in on-going problem resolution and operational enhancements, business purpose and benefit.
• Develop and maintain operational documentation related to configuration and provisioning for use by other staff.
• Develops and implements presentations concerning IT Operations and company information.
• Participate in the development of programs as a strategic partner that supports the enterprise plan.
• Participate in development of annual departmental budget, monitor budget and identify budget discrepancies.  Research cause and make recommendations.
• Responsibility for balancing workload to optimize the effectiveness of the department.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Relevant combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of degree

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or related field required. 
• Continuous learning, as defined by the Company’s learning philosophy, is required.  Certification or progress toward certification is highly preferred and encouraged. Completion of industry recognized professional designations, advanced degree, and training in business and/or systems highly desirable.
• Five (5) years of progressive responsibility in an IT environment with demonstrated technical knowledge which provides the necessary skills, knowledge and abilities. 
• One (1) year of management, supervisory or lead experience in IT required.   
• Experience within the insurance industry highly preferred. Multi-faceted experienced in the insurance industry, information technology field, or relevant business preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of computer systems, software, and database structure/application.
• Must demonstrate leadership ability and team building skills to effectively supervise professional and non-professional staff and interact with all levels of management.
• Ability to understand business needs and conceptualize and implement information systems that support those business strategies.
• Thorough knowledge of departmental procedures, processes and work flows.
• Ability to comprehend the consequences of various problem situations and address them, or refer them for appropriate decision making.
• Ability to interact with others to build consensus and get decisions implemented.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Ability to make competent, independent decisions.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality as appropriate.
• Ability and proficiency in the use of computers and company standard software specific to position.
• Ability to perform other assignments at locations outside the office.
• Ability to work with and empower others on a collaborative basis to ensure success of unit team.
• Ability to effectively exchange information, in verbal or written form, by sharing ideas, reporting facts and other information, responding to questions and employing active listening techniques.
• Ability to effectively present budgetary and/or cost information, and respond to questions as appropriate.
• Ability to establish workflows, manages multiple projects, and meets necessary deadlines.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Directly supervises a varied number of employees in the designated department(s). Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring and training employees; planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. This job description does not constitute a contract for employment.