Executive Director of Technology Operations

Role overview

The Executive Director of Technology Operations leads the day-to-day functioning, governance, and delivery of the company’s technology function. The position exists to make sure technology platforms, infrastructure, development practices, and operational workflows support business goals, run efficiently, remain secure, and can scale with growth.

This leader acts as the connection point between technology strategy and execution, with responsibility for operational discipline, technology governance, digital transformation, and coordination across teams to help the business grow sustainably and innovate effectively.

Core responsibilities

Technology operations strategy and execution

• Create and roll out operational strategies for technology that support both corporate priorities and technology goals.
• Convert technology roadmaps into practical operating plans with clear, measurable outcomes.
• Improve execution across software development, infrastructure, cybersecurity, cloud operations, and IT service delivery.
• Set up governance structures that keep technology initiatives moving efficiently.

Program and portfolio management

• Direct the planning, execution, and delivery of enterprise-level technology projects and programs.
• Oversee technology portfolios, budgets, resources, and priorities so business value is maximized.
• Keep projects on schedule, within scope, and within budget.
• Create executive-level dashboards and reporting systems that show technology performance clearly.

Process optimization and governance

• Build and standardize operating procedures, policies, and processes for technology teams.
• Apply recognized practices across SDLC, DevOps, ITSM, Agile, and project management.
• Improve efficiency through automation and streamlined workflows.
• Maintain adherence to internal controls, governance standards, and regulatory obligations.

Infrastructure, cloud, and service operations

• Manage enterprise infrastructure, cloud environments, networks, and support services.
• Protect system availability, scalability, reliability, and performance.
• Lead service delivery improvements through monitoring, incident handling, and issue resolution.
• Own business continuity, disaster recovery, and operational resilience efforts.

Cybersecurity, risk, and compliance

• Work closely with cybersecurity teams to safeguard systems, applications, and data.
• Spot technology-related operational risks and reduce their impact.
• Ensure alignment with regulations, security frameworks, and governance requirements.
• Define escalation paths and risk management steps for critical operational issues.

Data, analytics, and performance management

• Set and track technology KPIs, SLAs, and operational metrics.
• Use analytics to strengthen efficiency and support better decisions.
• Prepare performance reports for senior leadership.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts using operational data and business priorities.

Cross-functional collaboration and business alignment

• Coordinate with product, engineering, IT, finance, HR, and business leadership to keep operations aligned with company needs.
• Serve as a communication bridge between technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Support transformation initiatives and tech-enabled business expansion.
• Ensure smooth coordination among global technology teams.

Leadership and team development

• Build and guide strong technology operations teams.
• Develop leadership strength, succession planning, and talent development pathways.
• Encourage accountability, innovation, operational discipline, and continuous improvement.
• Promote engagement and collaboration across technology groups.

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, Business Administration, or a closely related discipline is required. A master’s degree or MBA is preferred.

This role typically requires at least 18 years of experience in technology operations, IT management, engineering operations, or similar functions, including 8 or more years in senior leadership positions. Candidates should have experience leading large-scale technology organizations, digital transformation initiatives, and enterprise operations. A strong background in software development operations, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and technology governance is expected. Experience in multinational companies or fast-growing technology-led organizations is preferred.