CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER I

Date: Jul 15, 2026

Req ID: 58577

Location:

Little Rock, AR, US, 72201

Category: AR TEACHER RETIREMENT SYSTEM

Anticipated Starting Salary: 97,301

Position Number: 22158493
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: July 29, 2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: $97,300.94

Position Information

Job Series: IT Administration

Classification: Chief Information Officer I – Competitive

Class Code: IIA01C

Pay Grade: IST10

Salary Range: $97,301 - $158,753

Job Summary

The Chief Information Officer I is a senior leadership position within a small department/agency responsible for overseeing the development, management, and execution of the state’s information technology strategy. This role ensures that the state’s IT systems and infrastructure support the delivery of government services in an efficient, secure, and innovative manner. As the CIO, you will collaborate with state agencies, senior leadership, and external stakeholders to align technology initiatives with state priorities, optimize IT resources, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Primary Responsibilities

Lead the development and execution of the state’s IT strategy, aligning technological initiatives with the overall goals of the state government. Provide vision and direction for long-term IT planning to ensure the state’s technology infrastructure is future-proof, efficient, and innovative. Oversee the creation and enforcement of IT policies, procedures, and governance structures to ensure consistency, compliance, and security across all state systems. Ensure that all IT operations align with state, federal, and industry-specific regulations. Supervise the department/agency IT infrastructure, including hardware, software, cloud platforms, and network systems. Ensure that IT infrastructure is secure, scalable, and capable of supporting the demands of state government operations. Oversee the development and implementation of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. Ensure that the department/agency’s IT systems are protected from cyber threats and that the state’s data is secure. Manage IT risk assessment and mitigation strategies to reduce vulnerabilities. Develop and manage the IT budget for the state, ensuring resources are allocated effectively. Monitor spending, evaluate cost-effective solutions, and identify opportunities for financial efficiency while maintaining high-quality IT services. Lead and manage the IT department/agency, providing mentorship and professional development opportunities to IT staff. Ensure that the department/agency is staffed with skilled professionals and create a work environment that promotes collaboration and high performance. Oversee the planning and execution of large-scale IT projects, including the deployment of new systems, software, and infrastructure upgrades. Ensure that all projects are completed on time, within scope, and on budget.

Knowledge and Skills

Ability to think strategically about how technology can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of state government operations. Experience in aligning IT strategies with broader organizational goals and objectives. In-depth knowledge of IT systems, infrastructure, and applications. Expertise in areas such as cloud computing, enterprise resource planning (ERP), cybersecurity, data management, and emerging technologies. Strong skills in managing complex IT projects, including planning, execution, resource allocation, and risk management. Familiarity with project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall). Advanced understanding of cybersecurity principles, practices, and tools. Proven experience in managing IT security and risk mitigation strategies in large-scale organizations. Experience in managing IT budgets, allocating resources, and optimizing IT spending to achieve maximum efficiency. Ability to identify cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or security.

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related field is required, plus five (5) years of experience in IT management, including experience in system administration, project management, and team leadership.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Contact Information: ATRS Human Resources
Name: Stephanie Lilly-Palmer
Phone: 501-682-1517
Email: stephaniep@artrs.gov

Since 1937, the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System has been fulfilling its mission of providing retirement security for Arkansas's past, present, and future public education professionals. The vision of ATRS is to be a model retirement system that sustains the trust of its members and the people of Arkansas through prudent financial stewardship and exceptional customer service.

Only completed applications will be accepted. Applications must include complete work history and references. List ALL work and/or volunteer experience in the "Employment Work History" section. "See attached resume" is not an acceptable entry for any section. A resume may accompany the state application but will not be substituted for any part of the application. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Employment in this position is subject to a background check and six (6) month initial period for employment review. If a college degree is required for the position for which you are applying, bring a copy of your transcript with you if you are selected for an interview.

Veteran Preference: A copy of a DD-214 must be submitted to the Hiring Official at the time of interview to be considered for Veteran Preference.

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9. For more information on E-Verify, or if you believe that your employer has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact DHS at (888) 897-7781 or dhs.gov/E-Verify.

Method of pay is direct deposit. Checking or savings account is required if hired.

7% Mandatory contribution to AR Teacher Retirement System is required if hired.

Employees hired or rehired in 2014 or later will be automatically enrolled into the Arkansas Diamond Deferred Compensation 457 Plan with a 3% automatic deduction. If you do not wish to participate, you have 90 days from your first deduction to opt out.

This position offers a full benefit package including paid holidays, annual and sick leave, health insurance and retirement pension.

ATRS is an equal opportunity employer.

Applicants must meet or exceed these qualifications

Applications accepted online ONLY: www.arcareers.arkansas.gov

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.