Information Technology Director – Joplin, MO

Introduction

Joplin is a growing community now home to over 54,000 people in the southwest corner of Missouri. The City anchors a metro area with a population of over 207,000 across Missouri and Kansas. Recently named one of America’s Best Affordable Places to Live by U.S. News & World Report, Joplin boasts housing prices half the national average and a cost of living 14% below the rest of the U.S.

City leadership has shown vision for a more modern government and has repeatedly earned community support for the tax funding needed to improve pay and expand services, amenities, and infrastructure. Organizational culture and improved technology continue to strengthen the municipal organization as Joplin builds a reputation for excellence.

The Information Technology Department manages and supports the operation of essential City computer systems, software applications, and networks. The department also provides IT project management and business analysis services to City departments for process improvement, hardware and software acquisition, and long‑term strategic technology planning. While the City of Joplin total budget is over $186.5 million, the IT department budget is nearly $3 million.

The department consists of four divisions:

• Computer Operations
• Technical Support
• Systems Administration
• Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

The City of Joplin is seeking an Information Technology Director (IT Director) who will be responsible for directing and coordinating the development, operation, and maintenance of the City’s technology systems. Directors help coordinate acquisition and implementation of a variety of CMS platform needs across departments and ensure compatibility with existing systems; manage strategic partnerships with software vendors and specialized implementation agencies.

This position will lead technical staff in the planning, development, and coordination of the City’s computing infrastructure, network, and applications. This is an executive management position that coordinates with all City departments, and other government and public agencies to maintain a secure environment for the City’s technology needs. The IT Director also prepares and makes recommendations for the annual operating and capital budgets for the IT Department.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic, insightful leader that naturally presents information in a clear, concise, and direct manner. A background in technology assessment and strategic technology planning is essential. The candidate should be proactive, have a background in developing comprehensive IT policies and procedures including acceptable use and cybersecurity policies and possess solid management and leadership experience. Additionally, the candidate must possess the technical acumen to provide strategic planning for the future and people skills to act as a coach and mentor to staff.

Strong candidates will have a substantial background in managing a comprehensive information technology department. Experience working in a complex government entity is preferred. Working in a fast‑paced environment, this position requires strength in multi‑tasking, excellent organizational skills, and a track record of collaborating with leadership to strategize and prioritize projects, programs, and issues. The City is seeking candidates who possess the following strengths and abilities:

• Strong skills in the assessment of current and future technology systems.
• Experience in Strategic Technology Planning.
• Strong leadership and decision‑making skills, as well as flexibility to adjust and support management to do what is right for the organization.
• Experience with cybersecurity including creating policies and procedures, technical expertise, and end‑user training.
• Willingness to collaborate and the ability to build positive relationships, embrace innovative ideas, and motivate a high‑performing team.
• Action and results‑oriented with the ability to create, implement, and communicate new processes and procedures effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner.
• Ability to oversee multiple…