Chief Technology Officer

The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is selected by and accountable to the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) Deputy Executive Commissioner for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer (DEC/CIO). The position is responsible for establishing current and long-range direction of technology aimed at keeping the organization on the forefront of innovation. The CTO's role is to align technology vision with business strategy by integrating agency processes with the appropriate technologies.

The CTO has broad oversight of development and implementation technology initiatives within the organization. This individual provides direction in all technology-related issues in support of information operations and core agency values. The CTO performs highly advances managerial work providing direction and guidance in strategic operations and planning; plans, assigns and supervises the work of others.

The CTO is responsible for the management of technology strategic plans and overall technology architecture. The CTO provides strategic direction for technology by identifying the roles that specific technologies play in the agency's business improvement and future growth. The CTO provides architectural consultation by championing a data-driven culture within the organization, promoting the use of AI and analytics to drive business value.

Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement.

Essential Job Functions:

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

Provides technical oversight for all activities related to HHS data and its use for business intelligence, data analytics, strategic planning, and program assessment. Develops creative strategies to use existing data assets, identifies emerging methods and technologies, and develops transition plans for future data analytics systems. Approves technical recommendations, data architecture designs, data acquisition strategies, proposed solutions, data models, and deliverables from vendors. Ensures the alignment of data designs with business requirements as both the data designs and business requirements change over time. Advises the DEC/CIO on IT strategy, operations, projects, and initiatives. (25%)

Provides guidance on data design and acquisition strategies for the development and implementation of data analytics, master data management, data warehouse, and data mart solutions. Oversees the management of data-related policies, controls, and standards. Analyzes database implementation methods to ensure compliance with HHS policies and relevant federal and state regulations. Manages high priority, complex projects, and initiatives. (25%)

Drive the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies into our products, services, and operations. Lead AI initiatives, including developing AI strategies, overseeing AI projects, and ensuring the ethical and responsible use of AI. Work closely with our data scientist, engineers, and other stakeholders to leverage AI capabilities for business insights, automation, and decision-making. Evaluate AI vendors, platforms, and tools to identify opportunities for innovation and efficiency. (25%)

Coordinates with all areas of the HHS system to assess data analytics, performance measurement and reporting needs to ensure technology and tool recommendations will meet the State's business needs. Represents the DEC/CIO on ad hoc workgroups and committees. (10%)

Ensures that reports of enterprise data used for decision making and strategic planning consistently use authorized business intelligence and analytics data systems appropriately. Oversees the controls on data quality and integrity, including the deployment of data quality monitoring systems and processes. Reviews policies, procedures, and controls for the appropriate protection of enterprise information assets through a defined life cycle. (10%)

Participates in the development of procurement documents (RFPs, RFIs, SOWs, etc.) and QAT Framework documents (particularly the Execution Capability Assessments and Technical Architecture Assessments). Participates as an evaluator and negotiator for procurements related to data analytics activities. (5%)

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Extensive knowledge of technology environments, including telecommunications, networks, programming, media, and desktops.

Extensive knowledge of data processing, hardware platforms, enterprise software applications, and cloud service models.

Excellent knowledge and understanding of project management principles.

In-depth knowledge of applicable laws and regulations as they relate to technology issues.

Knowledge of state and federal rules and regulations and how they apply to the IT environment.

Knowledge of evolving technologies and their applicability to HHS operations and applications.

Knowledge and ability to negotiate and monitor complex contracts, service levels agreements and performance metrics.

Advanced knowledge of information technology computer systems and software.

Advanced knowledge of technology strategic planning and execution methods.

Skill in building and promoting effective working relationships with user and stakeholder communities' operating in a large enterprise environment.

Demonstrates leadership and management skills required for a large complex and sophisticated technical and professional workforce.

Demonstrates skills to applying information security standards in defining a strong security architecture in a large IT organization.

Superior communication skills, both verbal and written as well as superior leadership skills.

Ability to apply technology solutions to business problems.

Proven leadership ability.

Ability to set and manage priorities judiciously. Ability to articulate ideas to both technical and non-technical addressees.

Superior analytical, evaluative, and problem-solving abilities.

Exceptional service orientation abilities.

Ability to identify problems, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions.

Ability to effectively translate and present complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical management through presentations and written media.

Ability to serve as a thought leader and successfully communicate the benefits technologies provide to the agency.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:

Candidate with industry certification(s) preferred (Certified Data Professional, Certified Professional in Business Intelligence, Certified Big Data Professional, Hadoop). Able to obtain two or more certifications within 18 months of starting position. Security+ or CISSP certification also preferred. Initial Selection Criteria:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in information technology, computer science, business administration or related study preferred. Experience can be substituted for a degree on a year-to-year basis. Ten (10) years of progressively responsible professional experience.

Experience in technology strategic planning and execution methods, overall technology architecture preferred.

Experience with a Texas State agency and/or knowledge of Texas Health and Human services programs preferred.

Experience with state and federal rules and regulations and how they apply to the IT environment and evolving technology preferred.

Experience in strategic governance, data design and acquisition strategies for the development and implementation of data analytics, master data management, data warehouse, and data mart solution preferred.

Experience in management of data-related policies, controls, and standards preferred.

Additional Information:

This is a hybrid position with in-office attendance at least two days a week.

Learn more about benefits. MOS Code:

There are no direct military occupation(s) that relate to the responsibilities, and registration or licensure requirements for this position. All active duty, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if they meet the qualifications for this position.

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

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