IT Director

About On Board Experiential (OBE)

OBE is a global marketing agency specializing in bringing brands to life through culture-shaping experiences. For over 30 years, we've partnered with iconic brands like Nike, the NFL, and Meta to build community, create cultural relevance, and achieve significant business impact. With offices in Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and London, we operate globally and are a proud member of The ADD Collective. We are recognized as a top workplace in the events industry, prioritizing our people, their well-being, and their unique contributions.

Summary of Position

The IT Director is a senior leadership role responsible for the strategic direction, management, and security of OBE's entire technology ecosystem, including the integration of emerging AI capabilities. This position ensures that all global offices and remote personnel have secure, reliable, and scalable systems to support efficient data processing, collaboration, and communication. The IT Director will oversee IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and enterprise technology strategy, identifying opportunities to leverage AI, automation, and advanced analytics to boost operational efficiency and business results.

Essential Job Functions

IT Strategy, Operations & AI Enablement (30%)

• Develop and implement organization-wide IT policies, standards, and best practices.
• Establish and execute the IT and AI strategy, aligning it with business objectives.
• Identify and implement AI, automation, and data-driven solutions to enhance operational efficiency and decision-making.
• Oversee daily IT operations, including infrastructure, systems, cloud services, and enterprise applications.
• Plan and manage technology upgrades, migrations, and system implementations.
• Maintain departmental operational documentation and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
• Develop and manage the IT department budget, ensuring cost-effective technology investments.
• Evaluate, select, and implement enterprise technology solutions to support business growth.
• Establish timelines and governance for major IT initiatives.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, cybersecurity trends, and AI advancements.

Cybersecurity, Risk & Compliance (20%)

• Lead the information security management program to protect data, systems, and networks.
• Conduct technical risk assessments across security, privacy, disaster recovery, infrastructure, emerging technologies, and vendors.
• Identify security gaps and lead remediation efforts.
• Maintain incident response, disaster recovery, and business continuity plans.
• Establish and conduct security policies, training, and awareness programs.
• Perform regular system audits and vulnerability assessments.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory and security frameworks (e.g., PCI, vendor security).

Help Desk/In House Technical Support (20%)

• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of network, server, cloud, and endpoint infrastructure.
• Evaluate technology needs and recommend scalable solutions.
• Manage hardware lifecycle planning, procurement, and deployment.
• Oversee email systems, identity management, and access control.
• Maintain accurate technology asset inventories and system documentation.

Service Delivery & Internal Support (15%)

• Oversee IT service delivery and support for all employees, globally.
• Manage the IT help desk ticketing system (ServiceNow) for timely issue resolution.
• Oversee employee technology onboarding, provisioning, and support.
• Provide escalation support for complex technical issues.

Vendor & Technology Partner Management (10%)

• Manage relationships with IT vendors, service providers, and technology partners.
• Negotiate contracts, review agreements, and ensure vendor performance.
• Evaluate and select external partners for IT services.

Client & Project Technology Support (5%)

• Provide technical oversight and consultation for project-specific technology needs.
• Manage hardware and software deployment for client or project initiatives.
• Support project teams in configuring devices and systems.

Desired Skills and Experience

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Advanced technical certifications or graduate-level education in technology, cybersecurity, or AI are preferred.

Experience

• 8-10 years of progressive experience in IT leadership roles.
• Proven experience developing IT strategy and managing enterprise infrastructure.
• Experience with cybersecurity risk management, compliance, and disaster recovery.
• Experience implementing AI, automation, or advanced data solutions is preferred.
• Demonstrated success in evaluating, selecting, and implementing enterprise technology platforms.
• Experience managing vendor partnerships and negotiating service agreements.
• Experience working in collaborative, cross-functional environments.

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, risk management, and IT governance.
• Knowledge of AI technologies, automation tools, and data-driven systems.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, able to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to prioritize initiatives and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• High attention to detail and documentation practices.
• Self-motivated with leadership capabilities in a fast-paced environment.

Software

• Experience with IT Support Helpdesk ticketing systems (e.g., Service Now).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Products (Microsoft 365), Adobe Creative Suite, and Quickbooks.
• Knowledge of encryption (file and machine level).
• Ability to maintain software inventory and ensure compliance.
• Knowledge of Active Directory configuration.
• Proficiency in diagramming software (e.g., Visio).

Networking

• Network architecture (VLANs, secure wireless).
• Firewall configuration, policies, and monitoring.
• Intrusion detection and prevention systems.
• Cloud-based infrastructure and hybrid environments.
• Backup, recovery, and data protection systems.

Other Qualities and Skills

• Strong intellectual curiosity and commitment to continuous learning, especially in emerging technologies and AI.
• Ability to support and communicate effectively with non-technical stakeholders.
• High adaptability and flexibility, including potential evening/weekend work.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule (minimum two in-office days) and travel periodically.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, creative, and collaborative environment.
• Strong customer service orientation and leadership mindset.

Compensation and Benefits

• Compensation Range: $150,000 - $185,000 annually.
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision insurance; employer-paid basic life and personal accident insurance; Annual Profit Sharing/Bonus Plan; 401(k); Healthcare Flexible Spending Account; Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account; PTO; STD/LTD insurance.