Director of Information Technology

Panthera is the only organization in the world that is devoted exclusively to the conservation of the world’s 40 wild cat species and their ecosystems. Utilizing the expertise of the world’s premier cat biologists, Panthera develops and implements global strategies for the most imperiled species. Representing the most comprehensive effort of its kind, Panthera partners with local and international NGOs, scientific institutions, local communities, governments around the globe, and citizens who want to help ensure a future for wild cats. Panthera Corporation consists of Panthera Corporation- USA and several foreign legal entities and foreign branch offices.  For more on Panthera, visit www.panthera.org. 

Overview

The Director of Information Technology (IT) leads Panthera’s global technology strategy and operations, overseeing a secure and efficient digital environment that enables organizational success and mission delivery. This role manages all IT strategy, procurement, systems, and services across headquarters, regional hubs, and field operations. The Director provides leadership on IT governance, vendor management (including global Managed Service Providers), and information security, while supervising the IT Procurement Manager.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Strategy and Planning

• Lead the development and execution of Panthera’s global IT strategy and roadmap.
• Establish and oversee IT governance, project planning, and IT policy frameworks.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align IT investments with strategic goals.
• Formulate and manage department budgets, resources, and long-term planning.

2. Acquisition and Deployment

• Oversee IT procurement, vendor negotiations, and contracts in partnership with the IT Procurement Manager.
• Evaluate and select enterprise solutions, hardware, and software across global locations.
• Direct the design and deployment of cost-effective technology initiatives.
• Authorize hardware and software upgrades and ensure efficient system integration.

3. Operations and Infrastructure Management

• Manage global IT operations including cloud infrastructure, network security, enterprise applications, and user support.
• Lead IT system performance reviews, SLAs, service delivery, and cost controls.
• Monitor performance metrics and drive continuous improvement across IT infrastructure.
• Oversee MSP’s help desk operations and ensure high-quality end-user support globally.
• Direct research and implementation of emerging technology solutions to support business growth.

4. Policy Development and Compliance

• Develop and implement IT policies and procedures (architecture, security, disaster recovery, data protection, purchasing, acceptable use, etc.).
• Ensure global compliance with regulations such as GDPR, LGPD, and other relevant standards.
• Manage IT audits, risk assessments, and disaster recovery planning.

5. Team Leadership and Communication

• Supervise, develop, and evaluate IT staff and contractors, including the IT Procurement Manager.
• Foster collaboration across departments and ensure clear communication of IT initiatives.
• Establish regular reports and touchpoints with executive leadership and department leads.

Qualifications and Skill Set

• 7+ years of IT leadership experience, preferably in multi-site or international settings.
• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proven success managing MSPs, enterprise platforms, and IT implementations.
• Strong understanding of IT governance, cybersecurity, and cloud-based systems.
• Strategic thinker with busine