DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY

Columbia Power & Water Systems (CPWS) is a public utility proudly serving the citizens of Columbia and Maury County Tennessee since 1939. CPWS is seeking an experienced Director of Technology to guide our technology strategy through a rapidly evolving landscape. This strategic leadership position will drive innovation, providing direction and expertise needed to ensure our technology infrastructure not only meets today’s needs but anticipates tomorrow’s challenges.
 
Primary duties & responsibilities:
We are seeking candidates with demonstrated experience in designing, communicating, and implementing long-term technology roadmaps that align with company objectives. Successful candidates will translate complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders and executive leadership, bridging the gap between IT and business strategy.
The Director of Technology will manage all IT staff and external vendors, building a cohesive team that delivers excellence. This position is responsible for preparing, managing, and forecasting the organization’s technology budget, evaluating ROI, and ensuring strategic investments drive measurable business value.
The Director will oversee the entire technology infrastructure, building reliable systems that keep our organization running smoothly. Qualified candidates will have proven experience implementing and maintaining enterprise infrastructure, including on-premise, hybrid, and cloud environments (e.g., AWS, Microsoft)—while ensuring reliability, stability, and continuous improvement across the board.
Security and resilience are paramount responsibilities. The Director will establish and maintain robust security protocols, develop comprehensive disaster and crisis recovery plans, and ensure organizational compliance with data protection regulations. This includes managing daily backup procedures, monitoring data integrity, establishing CPWS’ IT policies and standard operating procedures, and overseeing maintenance and improvement of the Broadband network and data center facility.
Beyond infrastructure, The Director will champion employee success by developing and implementing technology training programs that build proficiency across our software platforms—including CIS (NISC) and Microsoft Office and other emerging platforms. The Director will also evaluate and test software changes before implementation, safeguarding system quality and stability.
 
Physical Requirements:
 
This position requires the ability to sit for extended periods of up to 4 hours at a time and to talk, see, hear, reach, handle, and feel. Must be proficient in using eyes, hands, and fingers to operate a computer keyboard quickly and accurately. Able to lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 20 pounds for up to 4 hours a day, occasionally lifting up to 30 pounds.
 
Education, Experience, and Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• 15 years of progressive work experience in Information Technology, with at least 5 of those years’ experience managing an IT department required; Degree in lieu of some experience will be considered. 
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity or a related field preferred
• Additional consideration will be given for industry certifications, enhanced training classes, or related certifications.