Position: Director, IT

Organization: AAI (American Association of Immunologists)

Location: Rockville, MD

About AAI

The American Association of Immunologists (AAI) is one of the world’s largest organizations of immunologists and scientists in related disciplines. Our mission is to improve global health and well-being by advancing immunology and elevating public understanding about the immune system. AAI members are responsible for some of the most significant biomedical discoveries of the past century, including the development of life-saving cancer immunotherapies, antibody therapies, transplant technologies, and vaccines. We support scientists across the field of immunology through knowledge dissemination, community building, advocacy, and public outreach.

Reporting Structure:

The Director of IT will report directly to the Chief Finance & Operating Officer (CFOO) and work collaboratively with various internal departments and vendors. Exceptional communication skills and strong leadership capabilities are essential for success in this role.

Role Overview:

The Director of IT is responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight of the organization’s technology systems, infrastructure, and cybersecurity. This role combines strategic oversight with operational responsibility and governance. The Director ensures that technology effectively supports the mission, staff productivity, and operational needs of the nonprofit. 

The Director serves as the primary internal technology leader and systems owner, managing IT vendors and an external managed service provider responsible for staff help desk support. The position focuses on technology planning, security, system administration, vendor oversight, and continuous improvement of the organization’s technology environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define the IT vision and align it with business goals
• Lead IT strategy for digital transformation, cloud, and automation
• Represent IT within leadership discussions and long-term planning
• Support executive teams with technical guidance and reporting
• Oversee key projects, implementations, and system architecture
• Collaborate across departments to optimize technology usage
• Develop IT team through leadership and mentoring
• Develop and maintain the organization’s IT strategy, roadmap, and annual technology budget.
• Recommend technology solutions that improve productivity, security, and scalability.
• Advise leadership on technology risks and opportunities.
• Ensure IT supports overall organizational goals and operational needs.
• Manage and maintain company infrastructure, including:
• Cloud platforms (Microsoft 365)
• Network infrastructure (routers, switches, firewalls)
• Endpoint devices (laptops, mobile devices).
• Maintain system reliability, uptime, and performance.
• Implement and monitor backup and disaster recovery processes.
• Develop and enforce IT security policies and procedures.
• Coordinate security audits and compliance initiatives.
• Lead incident response if security events occur.
• Serve as the primary liaison with the organization’s IT managed service provider (MSP).
• Monitor help desk performance and service levels.
• Evaluate vendor performance and negotiate contracts.
• Oversee licensing and subscription management.
• Support the phone system (currently Fluentstream will be moving to TEAMS telephony).
• Assist the membership department with the AMS (re: Members) and the education department with the new LMS.
• Maintain system documentation and knowledge base.
• Ensure proper data protection, retention, and privacy practices.
• Maintain IT documentation, asset inventories, and access controls.
• Work with leadership to identify responsible and impactful AI use cases across departments. Potential tools may include platforms such as Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, or Claude.
• Supervise one staff member.
• Other duties as assigned

Application Process:

To apply for this position, please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, and contact information for three professional references. 

AAI is an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Qualifications and Characteristics:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 7 plus years of IT experience.
• Experience managing cloud systems such as Microsoft 365.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity practices.
• Ability to remain current on best systems and practices, and the ability to clearly articulate the why, when, and how to make these changes.
• Experience implementing or managing AI tools in a professional environment is a plus.
• Proven ability to lead IT strategy and organizational change.
• Skilled in developing IT roadmaps aligned to business needs.
• Confidence working with C-level stakeholders and Council (Board) members
• Experience in building high-performing IT functions from scratch