IT Director | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University

Oak View Group$120K — $130K *
Information Technology
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in IT, Computer Science, or related field (Master's preferred)
  • 5-7+ years of IT leadership experience in venue management or large-scale operations
  • Experience in high-traffic, real-time operational IT environments
  • Knowledge of network infrastructure, cloud platforms, ticketing/POS systems, and cybersecurity
  • Experience with smart building technologies and IoT systems is a plus
  • Proven record of leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects
  • Strong business acumen aligning IT with revenue and customer experience goals

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive IT strategy for venue operations
  • Lead modernization efforts including smart venue technologies and digital transformations
  • Establish IT governance and standards across all venues
  • Manage budgets, forecasting, and capital planning for technology investments
  • Oversee IT infrastructure management including networks, servers, and cloud environments
  • Ensure high availability of critical event systems
  • Manage connectivity solutions for high-density event environments
  • Maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans
  • Ensure seamless event-day IT operations and support for various events
  • Integrate systems like digital signage and building management
  • Develop cybersecurity frameworks and manage compliance with data regulations
  • Manage relationships with IT vendors and service providers
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing IT team

Benefits

  • Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • 401(k) savings plan with matching
  • Paid time off including vacation, sick days, and 11 holidays
Full Job Description
Overview

The IT Director is responsible for the strategic planning, implementation, and management of all technology systems supporting venue operations. This role ensures reliable, secure, and innovative IT solutions that enhance guest experience, support event operations, and drive operational efficiency across all managed venues. The IT Director partners closely with Operations, Events, Security, Finance, and external stakeholders to deliver scalable technology solutions aligned with business objectives.

This role pays a yearly salary of $120,000 - $130,000 and is bonus eligible.

Benefits for FT roles: Benefits: Health, Dental and Vision insurance, 401(k) savings plan, 401(k) matching, and paid time off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays).

This position will remain open until October 2, 2026.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute a comprehensive IT strategy aligned with venue business goals and guest experience initiatives.
  • Lead IT modernization efforts, including smart venue technologies, mobile integration, and digital transformation.
  • Establish IT governance, policies, and standards across all venues.
  • Manage IT budgets, forecasting, and capital planning for technology investments.
  • Oversee all IT infrastructure, including networks, servers, cloud environments, and on-prem systems.
  • Ensure high availability of critical systems such as ticketing platforms, POS systems, access control, and event management tools.
  • Manage Wi-Fi and connectivity solutions to support high-density event environments.
  • Maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans.
  • Oversee event-day IT operations, ensuring seamless support for ticketing, audiovisual integrations, broadcast needs, and vendor systems.
  • Support technology needs for concerts, sporting events, conferences, and large-scale public gatherings.
  • Ensure integration of systems such as digital signage, IPTV, and building management systems.
  • Develop and maintain cybersecurity frameworks, including threat detection, risk assessments, and incident response.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant regulations (PCI-DSS, data privacy laws, etc.) related to payments and customer data.
  • Implement security measures across networks, endpoints, and user access.
  • Manage relationships with IT vendors, service providers, and technology partners.
  • Oversee contract negotiations, SLAs, and vendor performance.
  • Collaborate with event organizers, promoters, and tenants to support unique technical requirements.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop IT staff across multiple venues.
  • Build a high-performing team capable of supporting complex event environments.
  • Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and service excellence.


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (Master's preferred).
  • 5-7+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, preferably in venue management, hospitality, entertainment, or large-scale operations.
  • Experience managing IT in high-traffic, real-time operational environments.
  • Strong knowledge of: Network infrastructure (high-density Wi-Fi, SD-WAN), Cloud platforms (Azure, AWS), Ticketing and POS systems, Cybersecurity frameworks, and AV and broadcast technologies (preferred).
  • Experience with smart building technologies and IoT systems is a plus.
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects.
  • Strong business acumen with the ability to align IT initiatives to revenue and customer experience goals.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
  • Ability to operate in fast-paced, event-driven environments with flexible hours.
  • Availability to support evenings, weekends, and holidays aligned with event schedules.

About Oak View Group

Oak View Group is a global sports and entertainment company that specializes in venue management, event production, and sponsorship sales. The company was founded in 2015 by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff, and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Oak View Group manages a number of high-profile venues, including the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle and the Moody Center in Austin, Texas. The company also produces a variety of live events, including concerts, festivals, and sporting events. Oak View Group has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.
Learn more about Oak View Group
Size
200 employees
Industry

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Oak View Group

More Information Technology Jobs

Find similar IT Director | Full-Time | Ryan Field at Northwestern University jobs: