Job Summary       

The Vice President, Innovation & Technology Services is responsible for the overall technological direction of the organization, arena operations, and affiliated locations that support the overall vision of creating a world-class plus fan experience. This position is part of the leadership team and serves as a strategic business partner to all areas of the organization.

Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesProvide strategic vision to the Infrastructure, AV & Production, and Software Development teams to ensure current and future projects focus on delivering solid foundations with competitive advantagesDevelop and position overall innovation and technology vision that aligns with stakeholders and organizations growth both in arena and other properties/venuesDevelop strong relationships with all VSG team members and provide innovation and information technology support to entire organizationBuild and manage a dynamic and customer focused technology team to support the mission and visionCreate overall technology standards, policies, and practices and ensuring adherence that supports the business needs of the organizationLead the strategy for technology platforms, partnerships, and external relationshipsOverseeing research and development initiative to keep organization at the forefront of innovative trendsCollaborating with the executive team to assess and recommend technologies in support of organizational needsFinancially manage resources and budgets to align with business needs and expectationsPrepares systems cost estimates and cost-benefit analysesLead and manage special projects and initiatives from inception to completion assuring quality control and financial projections are metMake recommendations to senior management through presentations and advocacyManage data systems implementation and monitoring their effectiveness in meeting business goals and objectivesSupervise software testing, and information systems security and maintenanceManage staff in functional areas such as LAN/WAN architecture, systems operations and administration, telephony, access control & CCTV, audio/video services, help desk, and hardware support, and software development and supportDevelop strategic relationships with vendors and contractors that support projects and operationsAnticipate and react to major technology changesDevelop technology contingency plans to keep systems operational in the event of a disaster and keep projects on trackActively participate in resources reduction, energy optimization and good sustainable practicesGenerate new innovative products and facilitate their entry to market when applicableOther duties as assignedSupervisory & Management ResponsibilitiesHire and lead full-time staff and manage their workflowOversight of part-time game/event staff and USF Fellows (as applicable)Responsible for ongoing coaching and development of staff and timely performance feedbackGame/Event ResponsibilitiesGame/Event Night responsibilities: YesApproximate number of events worked per year: 60-100QualificationsAt least ten (10) years progressive experience in the technology field with experience at the Director or VP level as well as experience serving as a member of the business leadership teamExperience preferably in arena/stadium/venue/sports and entertainment industry or other related innovative technology industry that focuses on the customer experienceRelevant and updated certifications required for project management, system implementation, maintenance and management (Cisco, Microsoft, CPM, PMP etc.)Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in Computer Science or related field requiredProven strategic leadership ability including the ability to plan, organize, coordinate, assign, direct, and evaluate the work of professional and administrative staffAbility to build strong and collaborative relationships with their team, the executive team, and ownershipAbility to think proactively and a confident decision maker who will challenge the status quo finding creative financial solutions, while remaining sensitive to the complexities and multi-dimensional aspects of VSGOriented toward long-term strategic successStrong business acumen and operational instinctsExcellent communication skills (oral and written); excellent analytical and abstract reasoning skills; excellent organization skillDemonstrated experience managing departmental and organizational technology budget and fiscal management including creation of strategic business plansAbility to deal with others in a variety of situations using tact and diplomacyAbility to appropriately handle confidential matters and informationAbility to work in a fast-paced changing environment and as part of a team, taking on tasks at all levelsPrior experience building an effective IT infrastructure to meet business requirementsTrack record of data driven and analytical decision makingWorking ConditionsAbility to work efficiently and effectively in office and arena environment that can be exciting, loud and distractingThis is an onsite role; flexibility to work a minority of time remotely.Ability to work extended hours including late nights, holidays, and weekends as neededAbility to work prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.Ability to use hands and fingers on office and mobile technologyAbility to listen and speak on phone, in meetings, and in one-on-one conversationsAbility to move comfortable throughout the arena with minimal accommodationsAbility to stand on feet for long periods of time, walk long distances and climb stairs.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.