Director of IT Operations and Cybersecurity

THIS ROLE IS ONSITE IN HOLSTEIN, IA

The Director of IT Operations and Cybersecurity provides enterprise-wide strategic leadership for all aspects of IT infrastructure, operations, and cybersecurity. This role is accountable for the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of a robust, business-aligned IT operations and security program that protects VT’s systems, data, and digital assets while enabling operational excellence and business growth. The Director directly manages the Manager of Help Desk Services, the Manager of System and Network Administration, the Cybersecurity team, and associated staff. The position ensures high-performing, secure, and resilient IT services across all manufacturing facilities, corporate offices, and cloud environments. The Director partners closely with the Chief Information Officer and executive leadership to align technology strategy with VT’s business objectives, risk tolerance, and regulatory requirements. The Director is accountable for meeting or exceeding published Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and for driving measurable improvements in IT service delivery, security posture, and operational efficiency. Essential responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

•Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for IT Operations and Cybersecurity, including direct oversight of the Help Desk Services, System & Network Administration, and Cybersecurity teams.

•Design, implement, and maintain a comprehensive enterprise Cyber Security program that encompasses endpoint security, network security, data security, cloud security, and customer portal security.

•Develop and execute a multi-year IT Operations and Cybersecurity strategic roadmap that aligns priorities with business objectives, manufacturing needs, IT infrastructure requirements, and the evolving threat landscape.

•Oversee the daily operations of IT infrastructure, networks, systems, and help desk services to ensure maximum uptime, performance, scalability, and user satisfaction.

•Recommend, develop, and enforce IT and cybersecurity policies, standards, and procedures to protect VT’s systems, data, and intellectual property.

•Collaborate with development, applications, and infrastructure teams to embed security-by-design principles into all solutions and projects.

•Establish and maintain robust auditing, compliance, and monitoring processes, including 24/7 network and data monitoring, threat detection, and incident response playbooks.

•Lead the development and ongoing maturity of the Business Continuity / Disaster Recovery program in partnership with the Infrastructure team.

•Develop and implement enterprise-wide security awareness training programs and foster a culture of cybersecurity accountability across all employees and third-party partners.

•Establish and enforce security requirements for all third-party service providers, vendors, and cloud platforms.

•Manage security incident response plans, conduct regular drills, and continuously improve emergency response capabilities.

•Review and approve all major IT requests, projects, and technology acquisitions to ensure appropriate security and operational requirements are incorporated.

•Develop, track, and publish meaningful IT Operations and Cybersecurity metrics and dashboards to provide executive leadership with clear visibility into service delivery, risk posture, and program effectiveness.

•Build and develop high-performing IT and cybersecurity teams through mentoring, talent development, and continuous improvement initiatives.

•Manage the IT Operations and Cybersecurity budget, vendors, and technology investments to maximize value and control costs.

•Drive digital transformation and innovation initiatives that enhance manufacturing operations, supply chain resilience, and overall business competitiveness.

•Other duties as assigned.

Professional Characteristics

•Strong executive presence with the ability to influence and partner effectively at all levels of the organization.

•Accepts full responsibility and holds self and teams accountable for performance and results.

•Self-starter with exceptional initiative, strategic thinking, and a strong work ethic.

•Creative problem solver, visionary, detail-oriented, and solutions-focused.

•High aptitude for learning and applying new technologies, processes, and industry best practices.

•Outstanding written and oral communication skills, including the ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences.

•Collaborative team player who builds trust and drives cross-functional alignment.

•High level of integrity, sincerity, and honesty.

•Business-oriented with a client-service mindset focused on enabling VT’s operational and strategic goals.

Qualifications

•Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field required; Master’s degree or relevant certifications (CISSP, CISM, CCISO, or equivalent) strongly preferred.

•Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive experience in IT, with at least 5 years in cybersecurity leadership and 3+ years managing multiple IT teams or managers in a manufacturing or industrial environment.

•Proven track record leading IT operations (help desk, systems, networks) and cybersecurity programs in complex, multi-site environments.

•Demonstrated experience with Microsoft operating systems, Active Directory, Group Policy, Oracle, SQL Server, cloud platforms (Azure/AWS), EDR tools, Sophos or equivalent security solutions.

•Deep knowledge of industry standards and frameworks such as ISO 27001, NIST, CIS Controls, and regulatory requirements applicable to manufacturing.

•Experience developing and managing budgets, vendor relationships, and service level agreements.

•Excellent leadership, mentoring, and team-development skills with a passion for building high-performing, engaged teams.

•Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers, employees, direct reports, and executive management.

•Models VT’s Mission, Vision, and Values.

•Must follow the Code of Conduct to the highest standards and adhere to VT Industries’ Attendance Policy.

Physical Requirements

Tolerance for sitting long periods of time. Possess finger dexterity to write, type, and use a calculator. Maintain adequate vision to view small print and computer terminal. Ability to speak and hear, walk throughout facilities with occasional light lifting (25 pounds), stooping, kneeling, crouching, and reaching with hands and arms required. Ability to travel between multiple facilities as required to perform core job duties.

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.