| Description: |
Whitworth University, Spokane, Wash., seeks a Director of Information Technology. The director works collaboratively with an information resources team that includes the director of the library, the director of instructional resources and the director of university communications. This team collaboratively guides the University’s robust network, website presence and related information management systems. The director’s primary role is to advance the mission and strategic goals of Whitworth University through the leadership of information technology for the entire campus, including off-site locations. The director is responsible for the support of technology systems used by faculty, students, and staff; the acquisition and support of academic and administrative applications; and the development and support for infrastructure services, such as networking, telecommunications, and web site hardware and applications. Current Reality: Whitworth’s information technology director is retiring after 19 years with the University. During this tenure, the development of the network and the current state of technology applications was developed in collaboration with colleagues in academic and support services components of the university. Whitworth’s primary information management system utilizes Datatel software. The University has focused on the PC format as a standard base of operations and utilizes Microsoft products extensively for communication, administrative and other functions. The campus expectation for high levels of knowledge and technology performance in a team-oriented environment makes this position an important role in the University. The director serves on the Presidential Planning Commission and, through the Vice President for Finance and Administration, advises the President’s Cabinet. A presidential search is underway to replace President Bill Robinson who is completing his 17th year leading Whitworth’s impressive development. It is expected that Whitworth new presidential leadership will expect to continue to grow and evolve the University’s uses of technology to support a vibrant, collaborative and engaged community of inquiry. Although candidates should have abachelor’s degree, an advanced degree in a field appropriate to technology management serving higher education purposes is desired. The successful candidate will have a significant track record of successful, progressive, and applicable experience in the leadership and management of information technology services with at least five years of senior-level management experience, working with a broad array of technologies; prior experience in an educational environment and with Datatel software systems is desirable; must have a clear vision of the comprehensive role of information technology in higher education, including academic programs, student and alumni services, and administrative functions; excellent organizational, administrative, and project management skills, including the ability to assess and diagnose critical areas for attention, develop strategies, and translate them into concrete action; and must be analytical and creative, capable of finding and implementing fresh and effective solutions. A personal commitment to the Christian faith is required. Background and credit check required on our finalist. Review of applications will begin on December 11, 2009, and continue until the position is filled. For a link to information on the application process and access to the full position announcement, please visit our website at http://www.whitworth.edu/jobs. With our commitment to building a diverse community, we encourage applications from women, persons with disabilities, and members of under-represented ethnic groups. Whitworth University does not discriminate in its educational programs on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin or physical disability. Since 1890, Whitworth has held fast to its founding mission of providing "an education of mind and heart" through rigorous intellectual inquiry guided by dedicated Christian scholars. Recognized as one of the top regional colleges and universities in the West, Whitworth University has an enrollment of 2,700 students and offers 55 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Under the strong leadership of President William P. Robinson, Whitworth enjoys record levels of student enrollment and retention, the strongest financial position in the university's history, and increased external visibility. Whitworth University's 200-acre campus of red-brick buildings and tall pines offers a beautiful, inviting and secure learning environment. More than $60 million in campus improvements have been made recently, including several new and renovated academic buildings, an expanded athletics complex, and two new apartment-style residence halls. A new center for the visual arts opened in fall 2008, and plans are under way for a major addition to the science facilities. In all of these endeavors, the university seeks to advance its founder's mission of equipping students to "honor God, follow Christ and serve humanity." |