Alberta Innovates is seeking an Executive Director, Information Technology to support work that advances research, innovation, and technology development in Alberta.

If you are looking for work that goes beyond a job description, Alberta Innovates/InnoTech Alberta offers the chance to contribute to research and innovation that has real impact.

**Employment Status:**Full-time – Permanent

**Location:**Edmonton| Work Model: Hybrid

The Opportunity

As an Executive Director, you will provide leadership and direction for the Information Technology and Data Management, including the strategic direction, delivery and execution of the information technology environment. You will support the realization of organizational strategic priorities, identify and drive innovative systems opportunities and building and leveraging strong business unit partnerships to enable the achievement of desired outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for duties that will include:

1. Provide Strategic Leadership and Oversight of AI IT Systems and Infrastructure

• Develop and implement short- and long-term IT strategies, including the strategic application of AI/ML capabilities across the organization, to advance organizational priorities and business objectives..
• Oversee the management and performance of IT systems infrastructure, software applications, and system support services.
• Establish and monitor performance indicators to ensure systems availability, reliability, integrity, and capacity.
• Ensure technology services and processes effectively support organizational operations and service delivery.
• Identify and address technology issues, risks, and improvement opportunities in a timely manner.

1. Provide Strategic Leadership and Oversight of AI IT Systems and Infrastructure

• Develop and implement short- and long-term IT strategies, including the strategic application of AI/ML capabilities across the organization, to advance organizational priorities and business objectives..
• Oversee the management and performance of IT systems infrastructure, software applications, and system support services.
• Establish and monitor performance indicators to ensure systems availability, reliability, integrity, and capacity.
• Ensure technology services and processes effectively support organizational operations and service delivery.
• Identify and address technology issues, risks, and improvement opportunities in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with established quality standards, licensing agreements, and regulatory requirements.

1. Ensure Effective Management of Technology Infrastructure, Vendors, and Service Providers

• Oversee the development, installation, and maintenance of database, server, and network infrastructures.
• Manage outsourced technology service providers to ensure contractual obligations and service levels are met.
• Monitor system performance, reliability, and service quality, addressing issues and implementing corrective actions.
• Negotiate and manage contracts, service agreements, and software licensing arrangements.
• Maintain strong working relationships with contractors, vendors, and technology partners.
• Evaluate new products, services, and vendor solutions to support organizational technology needs.

1. Enable Secure, Integrated, and Reliable Technology Solutions for Organizational Operations:

• Ensure secure and reliable business technology solutions support organization-wide transactional and service delivery activities.
• Translate business goals and operational priorities into viable IT plans, systems, and solutions.
• Identify opportunities for cross-organizational systems integration and technology efficiencies.
• Establish and maintain information governance standards, security protocols, and system access controls.
• Monitor compliance with security policies and address breaches or vulnerabilities.
• Develop and maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans to ensure critical systems can be restored quickly.
• Implement protocols to minimize operational disruption and address system outages or downtime.

1. Lead Technology Innovation, System Improvement, and Strategic IT Projects

• Identify opportunities to enhance system performance, streamline processes, and improve operational efficiency.
• Research emerging technologies, industry best practices, and innovative solutions.
• Develop business cases and recommendations for new systems, tools, or technology investments.
• Lead the planning and execution of strategic IT implementation projects and initiatives.
• Ensure technology solutions effectively support information management, research tools, and organizational operations.
• Evaluate and enhance existing systems to improve usability, functionality, and service quality.

1. Provide Leadership, Resource Management, and Stakeholder Engagement

• Provide leadership to the IT team by setting clear goals and monitoring performance.
• Drive effective performance management and professional development plans for team members.
• Offer ongoing feedback, mentorship, and training to build capability and high performance.
• Foster collaboration between IT teams to ensure integrated delivery of programs and services.
• Ensure adherence to policies and practice standards.
• Manage operational, capital, and staffing budgets, including forecasting, expenditure monitoring, and variance analysis.
• Approve expenditures within delegated authority and ensure financial accountability.
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of internal and external reports and financial documentation.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and leadership to support technology initiatives and organizational priorities.
• Build and maintain relationships with external stakeholders, industry colleagues, and business partners.
• Facilitate collaboration across departments to leverage resources, resolve issues, and support successful technology initiatives.

Qualifications and Skills

Required

• Diploma in Computer Science, Engineering or a related field. Equivalences will be considered.
• Minimum 10 years system development and implementation and strategic/project/operational planning experience.
• Minimum 5 years progressive management experience at a senior leadership level.
• In-depth knowledge of technology systems and infrastructures and hardware and software solutions and applications.
• Ability to manage key/strategic stakeholder relationships and generate respect and trust from a diverse group of external stakeholders.
• Strategic planning and priority management skills.
• Leadership and influencing skills.
• Facilitation and presentation skills.
• Business management oversight and acumen and business case development skills.
• People management, coaching, and career development skills.

Preferred

• Experience in use of AI/ML and automation of processes for an organization preferred.

• Experience in implementing and maintaining organizational cybersecurity controls to protect systems, networks, and sensitive data from cyber threats preferred.

• Information Systems Professional (ISP), Certified Governance Enterprise IT (CGEIT), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and/or other relevant professional certifications in IT governance and security preferred

• Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) certification or relevant service management certifications preferred.

• What We Offer

Alberta Innovates offers a total rewards package designed to support both professional growth and personal wellbeing. Depending on employment status, this may include:

• Competitive compensation aligned with internal classification and pay bands
• Comprehensive benefits, including health and dental coverage and pension benefits
• Vacation starting at three weeks, plus paid time-off programs that support balance
• Opportunities for learning and professional development
• A respectful, inclusive work environment that values collaboration and diverse perspectives
• Flexible work arrangements, where operationally feasible

You will work in a professional, collaborative environment where accountability, curiosity, and continuous improvement are valued, and where your work supports outcomes that matter to Albertans.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified applicants are encouraged to submit:

• A cover letter
• A resume
• Any additional supporting documents that demonstrate suitability for the role

Applications must be submitted by April 10, 2026.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo a security clearance and provide credible references.

Privacy Statement

The personal information collected in the application process is for recruitment and hiring purposes only. This collection is authorized under section 4(c) of the Protection of Privacy Act.

Employment Equity

Alberta Innovates is committed to the principle of equity in employment and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.