IT Senior Manager/Director

Umbra builds next-generation space systems that observe the Earth in unprecedented fidelity. 

Our mission: Deliver global omniscience.

To stay ahead of climate change, geopolitical risk, and other major crises and issues, we need a global understanding of what is changing, where, and how fast. Umbra provides easy access to the highest quality commercial satellite data available, which is an indispensable tool for the growing number of organizations monitoring the Earth. We empower our customers to create solutions that inform, inspire, and address our planet’s most pressing needs. We’re helping to create a brand-new industry that has never meaningfully existed before.

We are on the lookout for a dynamic and experienced IT Senior Manager/Director to become a key member of our leadership team. In this essential role, you will take charge of crafting and executing our information technology strategy, systems, and processes that align with our ambitious objectives. As an innovative leader, you will spearhead the creation and deployment of cutting-edge IT solutions that enhance our mission and promote collaboration throughout the organization. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring our IT infrastructure remains secure, dependable, and scalable to meet the demands of our rapidly expanding satellite operations and data processing requirements.

This role will be located onsite in Santa Barbara, CA. Note: our offices will be moving to Goleta, CA in ~May/June 2025.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership

• Develop and execute Umbra's IT strategy, aligning it with business objectives and driving digital transformation initiatives.
• Lead the IT department, mentoring and managing IT staff to ensure optimal performance and professional growth fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and results-driven performance.
• Foster an environment of collaboration and continuous improvement, implementing feedback loops to enhance planning processes and improve team performance.
• Facilitate professional development opportunities and promote skill enhancement among staff.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration between IT, business, and organization group teams to drive alignment and ensure shared understanding of objectives and deliverables.

IT Operations Management

• Oversee infrastructure management, data security, and IT compliance to safeguard sensitive information and maintain regulatory adherence.
• Ensure the reliability, availability, and performance of IT systems and services, monitoring service levels and report on performance metrics to identify areas for improvement.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to identify and implement technology solutions that enhance operational efficiency and data integrity.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies, bringing innovative ideas to the organization and contributing to the evolution of the IT strategy.

IT Portfolio Management

• Collaborate with senior leadership to establish portfolio priorities and allocate resources effectively across multiple programs and projects.
• Develop, implement, and continuously refine portfolio management processes, ensuring effective tracking, reporting, and communication of project statuses, risks, and financial performance.
• Manage portfolio risk management efforts, proactively identifying and mitigating risks that may impact project success or alignment with business needs.
• Manage IT budgets and ensure cost-effective IT spending.
• Oversee the budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation for IT portfolio initiatives, ensuring projects are delivered within financial constraints.
• Prepare and present portfolio status reports, financial analysis, and risk assessments to senior management, providing insights on portfolio health and strategic alignment.

Other Professional Duties as Assigned

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; a Master's degree is preferred.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in Information Technology.
• 5+ years of leadership experience.
• Proven track record of developing IT strategies that align with business objectives and drive organizational success.
• Strong knowledge of IT infrastructure, data security, and compliance standards.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills, with experience in managing teams.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with executive leadership and technical teams.
• Experience with budgeting and financial management in an IT conte