Senior Director of Technology Strategy

Summary

Join Common App, a national non-profit organization, as their Sr. Director of Technology Strategy! This leadership role contributes to the development and execution of Common App's technological vision, modernizing systems and aligning technology initiatives with organizational goals. You will oversee a team, define architectural standards, and partner with various departments to develop software and technical solutions. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in technology strategy, architecture, and leadership, along with expertise in cloud environments and emerging technologies. Common App offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and a virtual-first work environment.

Requirements

• Live in the United States
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• 10+ years of experience in technology strategy or architecture roles
• 8+ years in a leadership position
• Proven experience in managing technology roadmaps and overseeing enterprise-scale system implementations
• Exceptional leadership skills to set direction and enable strong collaboration across functional areas
• Strong organizational and management skills, preferably in a collaborative, team environment
• Expertise in enterprise architecture frameworks (e.g., TOGAF) and contemporary technologies such as cloud environments (AWS), SaaS applications (Salesforce, Data Bricks), and microservices
• Extensive understanding of cloud-native architectures and serverless technologies, with experience in modernizing legacy systems
• Proven track record in driving digital transformation initiatives and guiding organizations through complex technology changes
• Extensive background in emerging technologies such as AI/ML and big data platforms, with the ability to drive innovation within the organization
• Proven experience in managing large-scale software development projects, particularly in cloud environments such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform
• Expertise in Tech Strategy best practices, including microservices, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), and API-driven development
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts into business strategies and outcomes

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development and execution of Common App's technological vision, driving the modernization of its systems and aligning technology initiatives with organizational goals
• Define architectural standards to ensure systems are secure, scalable, and aligned with industry best practices
• Oversee a team and lead the adoption of robust architectures, designs, and technology to advance Common App’s services
• Partner with product strategy, constituent engagement, divisions of technical services and other areas of the organization to define and develop software and technical solutions in existing and new services

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field
• Previous experience in higher education, education technology or college admissions and enrollment
• A passion for higher education is a plus

Benefits

• Work-Life balance
• Virtual-first office
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Seven company-wide holidays
• Nine floating holidays*
• Sick leave
• Monthly mental health day
• Virtual-first support
• Choice of PC of MAC laptop
• May choose an external monitor, keyboard, mouse, and/or headset
• One-time office set-up stipend
• Monthly remote work stipend
• Monthly mobile stipend
• Market-based salaries
• Performance-based bonus
• 403(b) retirement plan
• 5% company contribution
• Additional 5% company match
• 3-year vesting schedule
• Participation may begin immediately
• Choice of two health insurance plans
• Health Savings Account, depending on health plan selection
• Medical Flexible Savings Account, depending on health plan selection
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance
• Insurance coverage begins on the date of hire
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
• Maven virtual clinic for women’s and family health
• Company provided life and ad&d insurance
• Opportunity to purchase additional life insurance for self, spouse, and dependents
• Company provided short and long-term disability insurance
• Budgeted annual funds for professional development
• Growth opportunities within the company
• Mutual of Omaha Employee Assistance Program
• Mutual of Omaha will preparation services
• Mutual of Omaha travel assistance
• Payroll dedication pet insurance through PinPaws
• 1Password family account