SUMMARY:

NUC University is embarking on a technology transformation program to enhance operational efficiencies and growth, using innovative technology and modern processes. We are creating an AI-focused Center of Excellence to accelerate digital transformation across teaching, research, and administration. As Head of IT Innovation, you will own the strategy and execution of technology initiatives that advance student success, operational efficiency, and the university’s AI vision. You’ll lead cross-functional teams, champion emerging technologies, foster industry partnerships, and ensure that innovation efforts align with institutional goals and regulatory standards.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related fields
• Fully bilingual (English and Spanish). Must be able to read, write, and talk in both languages
• 12 + years in IT leadership, including 3 + years driving digital or AI transformation programs
• Proven success in higher-ed or similarly regulated environments; familiarity with FERPA, accessibility (WCAG Section 508), and research data compliance
• Demonstrated track record converting proofs-of-concept into enterprise-scale deployments
• Budget ownership ($5 M +) and vendor-selection expertise (RFPs, SLAs, renewals)
• Relevant professional certifications as PMP, ITIL, SAFe, AWS Solutions Architect, or equivalent)
  Applicants must meet the minimum requirements to be considered.
  “Employer with Equal Employment Opportunity for Women, Minorities, Veterans, and Persons with Disabilities

• Define an innovation roadmap that balances quick wins with long-term capability building
• Establish policies, KPIs, and funding models for evaluating and scaling pilot projects
• Chair the university’s AI Steering Committee and report progress to the CIO
• Oversee a portfolio of AI, data, and cloud initiatives—budgeting, resourcing, and de-risking each workstream
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate enterprise licenses, always prioritizing data privacy and academic freedom
• Lead enterprise vendor evaluations, contract negotiations, and renewals, ensuring cost optimization while safeguarding FERPA, WCAG Section 508, and data-privacy compliance
• Partner with faculty to embed AI into curricula and research agendas
• Coordinate with Student Affairs, Enrollment, and Institutional Effectiveness to ensure solutions address real-world pain points
• Serve as the public face of NUC’s innovation efforts at conferences and within professional associations
• Build and mentor a multidisciplinary team (engineers, data scientists, product owners)
• Promote a culture of experimentation, continuous learning, and ethical AI use