Deputy CIO - Applications

Primary Responsibilities

The Deputy CIO (DCIO) of Applications provides executive leadership for the applications portfolio, including ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems, CRM platforms, Web Applications, and other enterprise solutions. This role is responsible for the strategy, architecture, development, operations, and support of Laboratory-wide business systems, requiring deep expertise in large-scale application transformations and strong engagement with C-suite leaders and stakeholders. The DCIO for Applications reports to the CIO, leads the Enterprise Applications Governance Board, works closely with the DCIO for Infrastructure and DCIO for Data, Analytics and AI, partners with business process owners, and is responsive to the Enterprise Capabilities Board for prioritization of projects. By driving innovation and delivering scalable, reliable platforms, this role ensures that applications operate efficiently, integrate seamlessly, and provide maximum value to Laboratory operations. 

The DCIO of Applications:

• Defines applications strategy, including vision, drivers and outcomes. Leads the creation (and assure the ongoing relevance) of the organization’s applications strategy in collaboration with the executive leadership, business and research domain leaders, and other relevant stakeholders and governance bodies.
• Institutes an operating model for applications that is consistent with the capabilities and competencies required to execute the strategy. The operating model includes the ecosystem, architectures and delivery model.
• Builds partnerships with executive leadership, business and research leaders to ensure that applications operate efficiently, integrate seamlessly, and provide maximum value to Laboratory operations.
• Communicates the tangible business value generated from applications initiatives to stakeholders and executives.
• Acts as the liaison between IT and business operations, ensuring applications meet end-user needs.
• Manages relationships with software vendors, negotiates contracts, and ensures service quality.
• Manages teams of application developers, analysts, and administrators.  
• Mentors IT staff and fosters skill development in new technologies.
• In direct partnership and collaboration with business process owners:
  • Manages the lifecycle of all applications—from selection and implementation to maintenance and retirement.
  • Ensures applications (ERP, CRM, Web Applications, etc.) support the organization’s strategic objectives.
  • Ensures applications are available, reliable, and meet performance SLAs.
  • Helps define the long-term vision for applications
  • Guides the modernization and integration of legacy applications with cloud and emerging technologies.
  • Introduces new platforms, tools, and automation solutions to improve business operations.
  • Evaluates application performance and eliminates redundancies to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
  • Leads initiatives that drive adoption of new systems and minimize resistance to change.
  • Translates technical issues into business language for executives and stakeholders
• Understands regulatory requirements associated with executing federal government R&D, ensures that applications comply with data standards, privacy, and security regulations.
• In partnership with the DCIO of Data, Analytics and AI, the DCIO of Infrastructure, and other IT leaders ensure cohesive IT strategy, comprehensive coverage and integration of the enterprise applications domain.
  
  

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree, master’s degree preferred, in computer science, engineering, business, or a related field.  
• Experience: Minimum of 15 years in IT applications roles with proven experience in a senior applications leadership role, with a track record of successfully implementing applications strategies in a complex organizational environment.  
• Technical Proficiency: Strong understanding of large-scale applications SDLC processes.
• Leadership Skills: Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels of the organization.  
• Analytical Mindset: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.