Chief Information Technology/Innovation Officer

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Chief Information Technology/Innovation Officer

City of Hyattsville, MD

The Director of Information Technology (IT Director/CIO) is a newly established strategic leadership position responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing all information technology functions for the City of Hyattsville. As the Citys technology footprint continues to grow, this position provides the executive-level guidance needed to integrate software platforms, evaluate and implement emerging technologies (including artificial intelligence), strengthen cybersecurity and operational security, and modernize the Citys data management practices.

The IT Director will serve as the Citys primary technology advisor to the City Administrator, City Council, and departmental directors. This position leads to the procurement and implementation of a new Organizational Management System (OMS) platform, manages the transition to a new managed services provider, and oversees implementation of recommendations from the Citys data management assessment. The IT Director will also develop and enforce a comprehensive citywide IT policy framework, including an AI use policy, and will represent the Citys technology program in public briefings and council presentations.

Organizational Relationships

Reports To: Deputy City Administrator

Example of Duties

Strategic Planning and Leadership

Develop and execute a multi-year IT strategic plan aligned with the Citys operational goals and growth

Serve as the primary technology advisor to the City Administrator, elected officials, and department directors

Prepare and present briefings to City Council and the public on technology initiatives, investments, and outcomes

Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive citywide IT policy, including an Artificial Intelligence (AI) use policy

Participate in budget development; identify, justify, and manage technology expenditures and contracts

Collaborate with department directors to assess technology needs, reduce information silos, and improve cross-departmental data sharing

ERP Selection and Implementation

Lead the development and release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new Enterprise Resource Planning (OMS) platform

Facilitate the evaluation, selection, and contract negotiation process with ERP vendors

Oversee OMS implementation, integration with existing systems, and staff training across all departments

Serve as the Citys primary point of contact for the OMS vendor throughout the project lifecycle

Managed Services and Vendor Oversight

Oversee all technology vendor contracts, service level agreements (SLAs), and performance accountability

Coordinate with external technology consultants and service providers to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with City goals

Data Management and GIS Integration

Implement data management recommendations, including records organization, retention, and accessibility

Advance integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) capabilities as recommended, supporting operational and planning functions citywide

Promote collaborative, cost-effective approaches to information access that break down departmental silos

Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technology

Evaluate, select, and oversee the implementation of an AI knowledge-based system that enables City Council members and directors to research City records and information independently

Develop governance frameworks, acceptable use policies, and staff guidance for AI and emerging technologies

Assess and advise on emerging technologies such as License Plate Readers (LPR), stop sign cameras, CCTV systems, audio/visual systems for council chambers and City facilities

Ensure all emerging technology deployments comply with applicable law, privacy standards, and City policy

Cybersecurity and Physical Security Technology

Assess and improve the Citys computer security, operational security, and physical security technology posture

Develop and implement cybersecurity policies, incident response plans, and staff training programs

Monitor for and respond to cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and incidents

Ensure compliance with applicable data protection regulations and best practices

IT Operations and Infrastructure

Oversee the Citys IT infrastructure including networks, servers, workstations, cloud services, and telecommunications

Direct and support the existing IT Manager and IT support staff in day-to-day operations

Establish technology standards, procurement guidelines, and lifecycle management practices

Oversee audio/visual technology for City Council chambers and municipal buildings

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong strategic thinking and the ability to align technology investments with organizational goals

Demonstrated ability to lead and manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously

Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences

Knowledge of current and emerging technologies including AI, cloud platforms, GIS, cybersecurity tools, and surveillance systems

Ability to build collaborative relationships across departments and with external stakeholders

Strong vendor management and contract negotiation skills

Sound judgment and the ability to make timely decisions in a dynamic public sector environment

Commitment to transparency, equity, and responsible use of public technology resources

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science or Information Systems, or a related field. Master's Degree preferred.

Experience:

Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible IT experience, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory or management role

Experience preparing and presenting technical information to non-technical audiences including elected officials or executive leadership

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in local or state government IT leadership

Certification such as CISSP, PMP, ITIL, CompTIA Security+, or Certified Government CIO (CGCIO)

Experience with OMS platforms commonly used in municipal government (e.g., Tyler Technologies, Munis, Neogov, SAP)

Familiarity with GIS platforms such as Esri/ArcGIS

Experience evaluating or implementing AI knowledge-based systems, including vendor selection and policy development

Ability to attain CJIS access

Knowledge of Maryland public records law, data retention requirements, and applicable privacy regulations

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in a professional office environment

Regular attendance at City Council meetings and public hearings, including evening sessions

Occasional travel for training, conferences, or vendor site visits

May require after-hours response to cybersecurity incidents or critical system failures

Must possess and maintain a valid drivers license

This job description does not constitute an employment contract and is subject to change by the City of Hyattsville as the needs of the City and the requirements of the job change.

The City of Hyattsville is an Equal Opportunity Employer.