Chicago Fire Football Club is a Major League Soccer team that was founded in 1997 and is Chicago’s ambassador to the global sport of soccer. The Club recently returned to Soldier Field as well as opened a new 50,000 square foot office in the heart of the city. With tremendous growth and expansion, the Club is laying the foundation for an audacious and ambitious vision that will transform the brand and the success of the Club in the coming years.
Position Overview:
Chicago Fire Football Club is looking to bring in a strong professional to lead our Information Technology (IT) team with all major technology needs. This role will spearhead IT operations, streamline processes, and fully optimize IT infrastructure and support. The Director of IT will oversee all technology functions for four locations (1ND, SeatGeek Stadium, Fire Pitch and the new Performance Center) as well as supporting matchday functions at Soldier Field.
Job Responsibilities:
- Manage and troubleshoot information technology systems including Azure environment, network and endpoint hardware, printers, software malfunctions and connectivity at all Chicago Fire FC locations, including remote connectivity for users to the Chicago Fire’s servers
- Manage and configure employee technology support with onboarding and offboarding technology provisions
- Develop and lead strategic initiatives to optimize the organization's IT infrastructure (computer and information systems, security, communication systems)
- Create and implement the framework for IT policies including those related to data privacy and security, disaster recovery and acceptable use
- Supervise and invest in the professional development of the organization’s IT team
- Manage department budget allocation for hardware and software acquisitions
- Perform hardware and software installations and/or configuration changes for network and server equipment
- Assist in the evaluation of needs and recommendation of hardware and software solutions for all departments
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to implement various technology initiatives
- Own vendor relations to fully optimize service, resolve complex problems and maintain partnership relations
- Work with MLS to complete league-wide technology projects and comply with minimum technology standards set by MLS
- Assist with event execution. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Event set-up (phone, credit card lines, broadcast, data connections, etc.)
- Assist with technology, Audio/Visual during Fire events
- Event tear-down
- Identify areas for and assist in the development and presentation of user training
- Other duties may be assigned
Required Qualifications:
- 6+ years of experience specializing in networks and IT troubleshooting
- 2+ years managing an IT department
- Familiar with the principles and techniques of supervision, training, budget preparation and purchasing
- Excellent leadership and decision-making skills
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to effectively communicate with teams across the entire organization
- Proficient in latest technology for IT systems and security standards
- Ability to work non-traditional hours, in non-traditional settings, including all home games (or other work events) that fall on nights, weekends, and/or holidays
- Knowledge of Microsoft technologies such as Azure cloud services, Windows server, Office 365
- Proven knowledge of TCP/IP, Voice Over Internet Protocol, and use of Cisco network hardware
- Ability to organize and prioritize work to meet deadlines and work effectively under pressure and/or a stringent schedule and produce accurate results
- Solid project management skills and the ability to handle multiple projects concurrently and thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working for an organization with 150+ staff members
- Familiarity with the sports and entertainment industry or relevant sectors
- Experience with third-party vendors (MSP & Crowdstrike EDR)
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or other related field
Please note:
- Chicago Fire FC is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. Our diversity initiatives start with the recruitment and selection process; therefore, we’d like to welcome all diverse candidates to apply to opportunities within our Club.
- CFFC is committed to providing equal employment opportunity and maintaining a workplace for employees and applicants for employment that is free from discrimination. The Company does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, citizenship, age, veteran or military status, disability, sexual orientation, sexual orientation or expression, marital status or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.
- If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact the Human Resources Department at [email protected] to let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.
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