Vice President, Information Technology

at  Vortex Aquatic Structures International

Montreal, QC, Canada
As we continue to innovate and expand our technology-driven solutions to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction, Vortex is seeking a visionary leader to join our executive team as the Vice President of Information Technology (IT). This pivotal role will be instrumental in driving our digital transformation initiatives to deliver exceptional customer experiences through technology. The VP of IT will optimize IT operations, spearhead the development of innovative IT solutions, and ensure seamless integration of technology to elevate our customer interactions.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Proven experience in Gap Analysis, Requirements Analysis, including scope modeling, business process modeling, data requirements, business rules analysis, functional and non-functional requirements, acceptance testing, and evaluation criteria definition
• Excellent knowledge of manufacturing business processes and IT related tools and software.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and French, including the ability to explain technology solutions, build relationships, and persuade others.
• Service-oriented self-starter capable of working independently and prioritizing workload.
• Strong collaboration skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Knowledge of ERP and CRM system implementation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools.
• Natural inclination to stay updated with evolving technologies (technology watch).

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology.
• A master’s degree MBA, in IT management) is nice to have.
• Proven track record of 10+ years in progressively responsible IT leadership roles, with at least 5 years of experience in senior management or executive positions.
• Strong leadership skills to drive projects and incidents to resolution with internal and external resources.
• Experience in leading digital transformation, IT modernization, and adoption of emerging technologies (e.g., AI, IoT, cloud computing).
• In-depth knowledge of IT infrastructure, systems architecture, network security, cloud computing, and enterprise software solutions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and drive continuous improvement in IT operations.

• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing IT team.
• Develop and implement IT systems policies and procedures.
• Ensure the integrity and security of company systems and data.
• Develop and manage the IT budget.
• Foster good business relationships with all stakeholders and users
• Collaborate with key business and technology stakeholders to perform business requirements analysis.
• Define short, medium, and long-term IT strategies and objectives.
• Ensure projects are aligned and prioritized with the company’s objectives.
• Oversee innovative technology adoption and infrastructure projects.
• Optimize integration and utilization of Independent Software Vendor (ISV) solutions such as Expert Logic, SolidWorks, Unreal to increase overall efficiency and provide best in class customer experience.
• Lead the development of proprietary software for the company’s electronic products including the integration of IOT.
• Translate ideas into market-ready products that meet customer expectations and business objectives.
• Optimize the company’s information system, including hardware, software infrastructures, and business tools.
• Provide problem resolution and ongoing support related to the company’s IT systems.
• Ensure proper functioning and efficiency of the ticket management system, including approval levels and prioritization.
• Manage internal and external resources, licenses, and consultants.
• Negotiate and manage agreements with IT partners.
• Anticipate company needs, identify risks, develop, and implement contingency plans, and provide innovative solutions to business challenges.
• Define project requirements by identifying milestones, phases, and project elements; forming project teams; establishing project budgets.
• Monitor project progress, resolve issues, publish progress reports, and recommend actions.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing publications, establishing networks, benchmarking practices, and participating in professional societies.
• Implement and manage performance indicators to drive continuous improvement of processes and systems.