Oversees the development, implementation, and management of all information technology systems that support the institution’s mission as a higher education leader in the Houston region. This role encompasses student, faculty, and staff technology services, in addition to the underlying hardware and software infrastructure. The CIO will provide strategic direction for IT services, cybersecurity, academic technologies, and institutional data management while ensuring that technology solutions are widely accessible, affordable, and aligned with the needs of a growing, diverse community.
Executive level staff at HCC are system-wide leaders that share the responsibility to collaboratively support the one-college vision articulated in our strategic plan – Embracing Houston’s Future – with college strategic priorities as measurable manifestations of our shared Mission, Vision, and Values.
Responsible for the design, execution, and effectiveness of a system of internal controls, which provides reasonable assurance that operations are effective and efficient, assets are safeguarded, and financial information is reliable and compliant with applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures.
Manages Talent Engagement activities for direct reports in regards to: recruiting and selection, hiring and termination, training, development, mentoring, counseling, and performance evaluations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Strategic IT Leadership – Develop and implement a comprehensive IT strategy that supports the community college’s academic goals, student success initiatives, and operational efficiency. Align technology planning with the overall mission of the institution, ensuring that technology resources help meet educational, administrative, and community needs. Provide advice and counsel to HCC leadership on best practices in IT services.
Student-Focused Technology Solutions – Oversee the management of student-facing technologies such as the Learning Management System(s), student portals, registration systems, and academic support tools. Ensure that technology supports student engagement, retention, success, including through mobile platforms, online learning, and virtual and smart classrooms. Work closely with Student Services and Finance to improve student experience through digital services (advising, career placement, financial aid).
Faculty and Academic Support – Provide leadership in the use of instructional technologies to enhance teaching and learning. Oversee the integration of educational technologies, digital classrooms, and tools for student collaboration and assessment. Support faculty with professional development in the use of technology for curriculum delivery, including hybrid and online learning environments.
Technology Infrastructure and Operations – Oversee planning, development, and maintenance of the HCC infrastructure, including networks, data centers, hardware, software, and cloud services. Ensure the availability, scalability, and reliability of IT systems that support the HCC mission and operations. Manage and optimize cloud-based infrastructure, campus networks, and storage solutions to meet both educational and operational needs.
Cybersecurity and Data Protection – Lead the development and implementation of robust cybersecurity policies to protect institutional data, personal student and faculty information, and IT systems both domestically and for international travel. Ensure compliance with privacy regulations, including FERPA, and any other state-specific guidelines. Regularly assess and improve disaster recovery and business continuity plans to safeguard against data loss or security breaches.
Technology Governance and Policy Development – Establish and enforce technology policies and best practices related to data management, security, hardware/software use, and intellectual property. Ensure that IT resources are allocated efficiently and responsibly across departments, within budget. Facilitate governance of technology-related decisions in collaboration with academic, administrative, and student leaders.
Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement – Serve as a key advisor to senior leadership on technology-related issues. Foster collaboration between IT and other departments to support technology needs such as administrative systems, HR, finance, and admissions. Collaborate with faculty, staff and student groups to understand and address technology challenges and opportunities.
Innovation and Adaptation – Stay current with trends in educational technology, evaluate their potential for HCC. Encourage and support the adoption of innovative technologies that improve educational delivery, administrative efficiency, and student success outcomes. Oversee pilot programs and evaluate emerging technologies for integration into the HCC portfolio.
Budget and Resource Management – Develop and manage the IT budget ensuring cost effective use of resources. Prioritize IT initiatives that support HCC’s strategic goals and ensure funding for mission-critical projects. Proactively seek funding through grants, partnerships and state/federal programs to support technology enhancements.
Perform other duties, tasks and assignments as required.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience
- • Master’s degree required
- • 10 years of IT leadership with at least 5 in higher education
Special Skills
- • MS Office Programs
- • Information Management Systems
- • Budgets Management
- • Learning Management Systems
- • ERP systems
- • Data privacy federal and state regulations
- • Strong vendor performance management skills
Competencies
- • Acting as a Champion for Change
- • Thinking like an Entrepreneur
- • Driving for Results
- • Leveraging Opportunities
- • Setting a Strategic Vision
- • Attracting & Developing Talent
- • Inspiring & Motivating Others
