Executive Director

The Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services (ITS) is hiring a new Executive Director to steer its comprehensive IT and telecommunications initiatives. As a catalyst for effective planning, deployment, and operation of innovative technologies, ITS enhances state government operations through dynamic partnerships with both public and private sectors. In this leadership position, you will manage and optimize resources to advance Mississippi’s technological infrastructure, ensuring efficient and accessible public services and aligning these technology strategies with broader state objectives.

As Executive Director, you will spearhead transformative projects that elevate the delivery of government services, implementing statewide communication networks and cutting-edge data solutions. Your efforts will establish more streamlined and secure operations across all state agencies, facilitating a digital transformation that benefits every stakeholder and integrating these systems to foster a unified approach to state technology management.

Your visionary approach will redefine how technology enhances daily life in Mississippi. By advancing strategic initiatives and forging strong partnerships, you will significantly improve public service delivery, playing a key role in aligning these technology strategies with broader state objectives. Are you ready to lead the transformation of Mississippi’s state government technology landscape with ITS?

About ITS

Established in 1970, ITS is a trusted leader in providing cost-effective IT and telecommunications solutions for Mississippi’s government stakeholders. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative technologies, ITS optimizes resources to enhance the delivery of government services, ensuring efficient and accessible public services.

Recognized nationally for its excellence, ITS drives efficiency and effectiveness in state government technology solutions. ITS has garnered accolades for its innovative approach, earning recognition for its role as a catalyst for effective planning, deployment, and operation of cutting-edge technologies. With oversight of a $50 million annual budget and technology procurements exceeding $450 million, ITS plays a pivotal role in shaping Mississippi’s technological landscape, continually striving to provide proven and cost-effective solutions to its stakeholders.

ABOUT THE POSITION

Summary of Responsibilities:

Lead the agency’s development and implementation of strategic IT initiatives to support the state’s long- term technological goals and objectives.

Oversee the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning into government operations to enhance efficiency and decision-making.

Collaborate with key stakeholders to develop and implement IT policies, procedures, and standards that align with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.

Provide oversight and direction for the management of IT projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.

Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of IT systems and infrastructure, identify areas for improvement, and implement solutions to enhance performance and security.

Serve as a liaison between ITS and other state agencies, public universities, and local governments to facilitate collaboration and coordination on IT-related initiatives.

Develop and maintain strong partnerships with technology vendors and service providers to leverage resources, negotiate contracts, and ensure the delivery of high-quality services.

Lead efforts to promote IT innovation and digital transformation across state government, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in IT service delivery.

Represent ITS in legislative and regulatory matters related to technology and telecommunications, advocate for policies that support the state’s IT goals and priorities.

Provide strategic guidance and leadership to ITS staff, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages professional growth and development.

Preferred Qualifications

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in engineering, business administration, telecommunications, information technology/systems, computer science, or a related field.

Advanced degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE

Minimum ten (10) years in information technology, telecommunications, or a related field.

Minimum five (5) years in a high-level management position with a demonstrated record of management expertise in the application of information technology and electronic communications.

Executive or equivalent experience with a span of control similar to this position.

LEADERSHIP

Demonstrated leadership experience in the successful management of large IT organizations, projects, and initiatives with multiple stakeholders.

Exhibit a proven track record in developing and implementing strategies for best-practice applications of technology to address customer requirements.

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE

Broad knowledge of current platforms, solutions, and best practices for a wide range of information technologies.

STATE GOVERNMENT

Previous experience and knowledge of public administration and the legislative process in state government.

Experience in Mississippi state government is highly preferred.

BUDGET MANAGEMENT

Business acumen as demonstrated by successful management of multi-million dollar technology and administrative budgets.

Compensation

SALARY $157,000 to $200,000 annually

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Health and Life Insurance

Prescription Insurance

Optional Supplemental Insurance (Vision, Dental, etc.)

Paid Leave and Holidays

Defined Benefit Retirement Plan (PERS)

Flexible Spending Account

Deferred Compensation

Career Development

Wellness Benefits

State Employee Discount Program and more agency-specific benefits

How to Apply

ITS has retained Kinetic Staffing, a Mississippi-based executive recruiting firm, as the exclusive search consultant for this position.

Please submit the following:

State of MS Application: Complete the required form here.

Resume: Submit in Word or PDF format.

References: Three references, with at least one professional reference.

Send documents in confidence to, addressed to Alan Lange, CEO. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and prompt submission is encouraged. References will not be contacted without prior consent from the applicant.

ITS follows equal employment guidelines and employs personnel without regard to race, creed, color, class, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability (as prescribed by the Americans with Disabilities Act), veteran status or marital status.