Director of Innovation & Technology

Salary: $5,950.40 - $7,516.00 Biweekly
Location : City of Sioux Falls, SD
Job Type: Appointed
Job Number:
Department: Innovation & Technology
Opening Date: 10/27/2026
Closing Date: 11/24/2026 5:00 PM Central

Job Summary

The Director of Innovation and Technology bears ultimate responsibility for the overall operation, planning, development, and administration of the Innovation and Technology department. Foster a culture of innovation, operational excellence, and continue improvement through the effective use of data and technology across all City departments. Responsible for the Information Technology, Communications, and Civic Analytics divisions of the City.
Job Responsibilities
There shall be delegated to the holder of the Director of Innovation and Technology the following executive and administrative duties and functions in which the public has an interest and for which the holder of said office shall bear ultimate responsibility:

1. Direct the planning and management of the Information Technology Division including system analysis and design, network security, project management, programming, computer operations, training, computer equipment maintenance, software and hardware selection, and vendor management. Lead the development, adoption, and implementation of a citywide information technology roadmap that prioritizes and balances initiatives with available resources.
2. Direct the planning and management of the Communications Division including internal and external communications strategy, document and desktop publishing, government access channels, website and intranet administration, social media platforms, citizen engagement and inquiry systems, and related communication vehicles.
3. Direct the planning and management of the Civic Analytics Division, including the strategic direction and development of citywide data policies, procedures, and standards supporting the delivery of analysis and data-driven decisions with departments. Management and responsibility include oversight of the city-wide Geographic Information Systems (GIS), the City's Enterprise Asset Management Systems (EAMS).
4. Lead the City's efforts to collect, analyze, and disseminate appropriate data to the public and across City departments. Promote the use of accessible, open data systems and related applications.
5. Lead City's enterprise artificial intelligence strategy, including governance, policy development, risk management, and implementation of AI solutions that improve municipal services and operational effectiveness. Drive the identification and deployment of high-value AI initiatives, promote responsible and ethical AI use, and foster cross-departmental collaboration to advance innovation, efficiency, and data-informed decision-making.

1. Supervise employees and make final decisions relative to hiring, discharge, layoff, suspension, disciplinary action, and the adjustment of grievances and employee performance evaluations.
2. Submit an annual departmental budget request and ensure that the amount spent and/or obligated for the department, or for any purpose within the department, will not exceed the total amount appropriated for such department or purpose except as otherwise specifically provided.
3. Maintain professional awareness of current technological advances to ensure that the most innovative, efficient, productive, and cost-effective practices are in place.
4. Perform other such duties and functions as are necessary or incidental to the proper performance of this position.

Minimum Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, public relations, computer science, or related field with a minimum of eight (8) years' experience in one or more of these fields. A minimum of five (5) years' experience at a division manager level; or any such combination of education, experience, and training as may be acceptable to the hiring authority.

Possession of a valid driver's license is desirable.

Supplemental Information
Ability and experience in effectively leading, motivating, and managing personnel.

Ability and experience in conflict management and resolution.

Ability to think creatively and innovatively to positively impact the operations of the City of Sioux Falls.

Knowledge of how technology can be used to effectively advance organizational objectives and improve processes and business operations.

Knowledge of media relations, public information practices, social media strategy, crisis communications, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach principles.

Knowledge of digital accessibility standards, ADA requirements, and inclusive technology practices to ensure equitable access to City information and services.

High level of advanced problem solving and analytical skills.

Ability and experience in project management.

Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with departments/divisions and staff.

Ability to work effectively with, advise, and inform legislative bodies, citizen groups, the media, employees, and the general public.

Ability to manage financial activities, including short- and long-range planning, analysis, and budget functions.

Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Skill with strategic planning and ability to promote and effect change.

Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.

• Competitive salary with other public and industry positions, including step advancements.
• The City participates in the South Dakota Retirement System. Employees receive a 6% match. Additionally, employees may choose to enroll in a Deferred Compensation Plan.
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Competitive rates for single, 2-party, and family.
• 11 paid holidays and 2 personal leave days each calendar year.
• New employees are granted 40 hours of vacation at time of hire and accrue an additional 2 weeks in their first year.
• Sick leave accrues over 96 hours per year.
• The City of Sioux Falls is an eligible employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.