Vice President, Information Technology and Chief Information Officer - Higher Education Jobs, University Jobs, HigherEd Jobs

Job description

Drexel University seeks a strategic and visible leader to serve as its next Vice President, Information Technology and Chief Information Officer (CIO). This is a unique opportunity to join one of the nation’s leading universities and play a key role in harnessing technology to drive Drexel’s continued evolution and innovation.

Drexel University is a comprehensive global R1 research institution, distinguished by its unique model of experiential learning that blends academic excellence with one of the nation’s top cooperative education programs. Established in 1891 in Philadelphia, Drexel spans six campuses in the Philadelphia Metro area and extends its reach worldwide through international research collaborations and Drexel Online.

The CIO will report to the Executive Vice President, Chief Operating and Financial Officer, and Treasurer and serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet. This executive will lead enterprise-wide information technology strategy and operations, shaping a forward-looking IT vision that amplifies the impact of Drexel University’s academic strategic priorities. Key responsibilities will include: creating, communicating, and executing a comprehensive IT strategic plan aligned with Drexel’s academic transformation; developing and empowering a high-performing IT organization and structure; assessing and optimizing IT governance to ensure effective prioritization of technology investments; advancing cybersecurity across the institution; developing and implementing artificial intelligence (AI) strategy; and enhancing academic and research computing to support innovation and excellence.

The ideal candidate will be a visionary and proactive leader with a track record of fostering consensus in complex, multi-stakeholder environments—preferably within higher education. They will bring exceptional relationship-building skills and promote a collaborative, inclusive culture. This individual must be a transparent communicator, a trusted partner, and a strategic team builder with the ability to attract and retain top IT talent. As a change agent, they will balance competing priorities and resources while driving innovation. Above all, the CIO will embody a deep commitment to Drexel’s mission, vision, and values.

How to apply

All applications, nominations and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the profile. Please direct all application materials to Nick Giannas, Hillary Ross, or Katie Mazzuckelli via the WittKieffer page here or via email at [email protected].

WittKieffer is assisting Drexel University in this search. The search will remain open until an appointment is made.

Drexel University is committed to fairness, equal opportunity, and a hiring process that ensures inclusive representation of faculty and professional staff members with a wide range of perspectives. We encourage candidates from varied backgrounds and lived experiences – who are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and welcoming working and learning environment for all students, faculty and staff – to apply. Our hiring strategies include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) careful selection of hiring committees so that they reflect a diversity of viewpoints; (2) strategic authoring of job advertisements to succinctly distinguish between required and desired qualifications; and (3) thoughtful placement of job advertisements through a wide range of websites and organizations.Drexel University and the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University prohibit discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry and ethnic characteristics), ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by law (referred to as “protected category(ies)”) in the educational programs or activities Drexel operates. Drexel University seeks to foster an inclusive and healthy educational and employment environment built on mutual respect and trust. do not discriminate against applicants, or employees based on race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, identity and expression, disability or veteran status. For additional information, please view the Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation.