Directs the strategic development and/or procurement of all software, hardware and applications enterprise-wide. Drives and oversees software innovation, architecture, application development, 3rd party management (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS), integration, data and analytics, application support, testing, and software vendor management as it relates to their specific area of responsibility. Participates in the ongoing development of a 3-5 year roadmap using Agile methodologies to offer innovative, dependable, adaptable and balanced solutions. Keeps current on supported systems and works to maximize the outcomes of all IT/D&A investments.

- This is a Salary Exempt position.

Develops, implements and maintains a cost-effective technology strategy in support of current and future corporate goals and objectives. Provides leadership and direction to IT staff for implementation of the strategy. Communicates priorities and develops commitment to approved goals and plans among other business leaders, teams and personnel.

Directs enterprise-wide development and/or procurement. Oversees the architectural design, management and execution of existing and new applications or platforms. Oversees the selection, testing, integration, and support of third party purchased applications or platforms. Budgets, tracks and forecasts spend; evaluates new technologies and development efforts to inform make vs buy decisions. Manages software vendor relationships, contracts, licensing and outsourcing relationships in partnership with procurement. Ensures that proper policies, procedures and processes are in place to monitor, protect and recover the infrastructure and information.

Leads their respective technical organization (PMO, Applications, Infrastructure, Support, Security, or D&A) to accomplish quality performance and deliver on expectations regarding functionality, timeliness and cost in a manner that meets or exceeds customer expectations. Counsels with the leaders to validate comprehensive implementation plans and work schedules. Effectively monitors the execution, control, and reporting of projects. Directs managers regarding day to day priorities related to business systems, operational issues and continuous improvement in services to business systems customers. Advises on resource changes or additions to support projects. Ensures all company software licenses up to date and in compliance.

Leverages software capabilities to increase company productivity. Stays informed about latest technology trends, new technologies and advises on what future systems could enhance Simmons Foods. Continually strives to improve company productivity by identifying new technologies, upgrade initiatives, software replacements and new vendors that will provide increased productivity and overall benefit to the firm.

Works closely with IT and other teams. Provides leadership to make certain all IT / D&A teams work collaboratively with each other and business teams to ensure adherence to architecture and security standards, tracking metrics and continuous improvement standards.

Builds a world class organization. Ensures leadership development and employee training that is focused on achieving both technical excellence and behaviors that are consistent with the values of the company. Focuses on ensuring that appropriate succession plans / bench strength are maintained. Conducts regular one-on-one coaching and support sessions with all direct reports. Assists in staff skill development and develops a team-based customer service oriented organization focused on goals and objectives.

Manages employees. Directs and supervises employees' work activities and monitors work performance. Collaborates with Human Resources to screen, interview and hire candidates. Administers disciplinary actions and recommends performance improvement actions in collaboration with the HR Manager. Monitors work performance and recommends compensation decisions based on guidelines. Follows Simmons values to develop and maintain a favorable working relationship with all employees. Promotes a cooperative and harmonious environment in order to facilitate positive employee morale, productivity, and continued improvement.

Participates as a member of the Team . Participates in the ongoing development, communication and implementation of team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues; e.g., direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforce actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger organization.

Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons' established operating systems (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies, LEAN); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position's role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas.

Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to guide the activities of the person in this position and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person as to the work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position.

Physical Activities: Enters and locates information on a computer. Visually verifies information, often in small print. Communicates with Customers, Vendors, or Employees via telephone, in person, and/or electronic mail. May present information to small or large groups. Must be able to work in various temperatures. Move about in a manufacturing environment and surrounding property. May travel via car or plane to various work locations.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): As required by visiting facility.

Travel: Approximately 20% travel, including travel to Simmons facilities, one to two offsite classes or conferences per year, and to Toronto Office monthly. Must have or be able to obtain a passport.

Technical Experience: 10 years progressive software and/or application development technical experience. At least 5 years in a senior leadership role. Advanced knowledge of the software and applications necessary to run a large company. Excellent interpersonal, listening, oral and written communication skills. Excellent analytical skills, as well as accuracy and attention to details.

Industry Experience: Preference for food processing organization.

Minimum Education : Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or related field, or 4 years related experience.

Preferred Education : Related Master's degree.