McDermott + Bull has been engaged to lead the search for Vancouver Island University’s Chief Information Officer. This search will be led by McDermott + Bull Principal Alex Verdecchia and Consultant Christiana Chan.

Vancouver Island University acknowledges and thanks the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Snaw-Naw-As, Tla’amin and Qualicum First Nations on whose traditional lands they teach, learn, research, live and share knowledge. 

Vancouver Island University is located in one of the most beautiful places in the world, within the traditional territories of the Coast Salish Peoples along the rugged coastline of the Salish Sea. Vancouver Island University (VIU) plays a vital role in the educational, cultural, and economic life of the area. With its main campus in Nanaimo and regional campuses in Duncan, Powell River, and Parksville, VIU enriches its growing student body and faculty by connecting coastal beauty and a culture of community with high-quality education. 

Reporting to the Vice President, Finance and Administration the Chief Information Officer (CIO) directs the planning and implementation of enterprise-wide IT systems in support of institutional operations to improve cost effectiveness, service quality, and institutional development. The CIO is responsible for all aspects of the University’s information technology and systems and has overall responsibility for educational and information technology, and for the delivery of reliable and responsive customer service to faculty, staff, students, and all other client groups at the University.

The ideal candidate is an experienced technology leader who possesses a lifelong commitment to learning and the power of education and a keen understanding of the role information technology plays in the effective operation of a large, complex organization. They possess a supportive leadership approach and the ability to lead in complex situations, working collaboratively and with confidence, to balance the needs of diverse partner groups and customers. A degree in computing science, information technology, or a related field is required. A master’s degree is preferred, and additional formal education in business, commerce and project management is highly desirable.

If you know anyone who might be a good fit for the role, please contact Christiana Chan at cchan@mbexec.ca or Alex Verdecchia at averdecchia@mbexec.ca in McDermott + Bull’s Vancouver office.