Chief Information Officer

The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex, maintains and exhibits the National Collections and welcomes some 30 million visitors per year to its museums. Smithsonian Enterprises (SE) is a revenue-generating unit of the Smithsonian Institution, responsible for raising annual unrestricted funds to support the mission of the Smithsonian. Smithsonian Enterprises oversees the Media Group, Retail Group, Ecommerce, Smithsonian Journeys (travel program) and Licensed Products. These revenue generating activities support and further the Smithsonian mission of “the increase and diffusion of knowledge” providing revenue to support the exhibition and research programs of the Smithsonian.

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Smithsonian Enterprises (SE) is a key executive leader reporting to the President, providing support in a variety of strategic and operational capacities, and responsible for the planning, development, implementation, and ongoing management of all technology systems across SE’s diverse business units. These units include retail stores, travel services, ecommerce platform, licensing division, magazine business, online magazine business, and other innovative business initiatives.

This role requires a seasoned, strategic, and effective leader who can align technology with business objectives while ensuring the stability, security, scalability, and performance of the organization’s systems and infrastructure. The CIO oversees a multidisciplinary team including software developers, systems analysts, endpoint engineers, systems / network administrators, and web design and development specialists.

In addition to internal leadership, the SE CIO serves as the primary technology liaison across the broader Smithsonian Institution, representing SE in cross-organizational technology and compliance initiatives. This executive must be an exceptional communicator and relationship builder, capable of translating complex technology issues into accessible terms for stakeholders at all levels.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the supervision of the President, Smithsonian Enterprises, the incumbent will oversee directly or through subordinates the following :

Technology and Digital Leadership

• Lead and mentor a high-performing team of IT, web development, and audio / film production professionals, including :
• Software Development : Software developers
• Systems Analysis : Systems / business analysts
• Desktop and POS Support : Endpoint engineers
• Network Engineering : Systems and network administrators
• Digital Services : Web design and development specialists
• Digital Studios : Film producers, podcast producers, and videographers
• Oversee relationships with contract editors, animators, and videographers to augment in-house capabilities and ensure high production standards.

Systems Architecture

Technology Strategy

Digital Film and Audio Production

Digital Web Production

Compliance, Cybersecurity & Risk Management

Business Reporting & Insights

Budget Management

Qualifications & Experience

B.S. Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related discipline with an IT focus from a four-year college or university. An advanced degree is highly preferred.

At least 15 years of related experience in IT, Digital and web services, engagement services and technology management, equipping the candidate with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position. Knowledge of IT and MIS technologies to support retail, publishing and various diverse businesses.

Technical Knowledge

Leadership & Management Skills

Applicants, who wish to qualify based on education completed outside the United States, must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.

To apply, please forward your resume, cover letter and salary requirements by December 31, 2025, to SECareers@si.edu

A competitive compensation and benefits package is being offered. No relocation expenses will be paid.

The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The individual selected for this position is subject to fingerprinting and a full-field background investigation and will be required to file a confidential statement of employment and financial interests. This position is subjected to the Smithsonian Institution’s Standards of Conduct, the Smithsonian Statement of Values and Code of Ethics, as well as the policies established by the Board of Regents and the Smithsonian administration including Senior Level compensation policy. Employment in this position prohibits from serving on the boards of for-profit corporations.

Candidates must be U.S. employment eligible without sponsorship and will be required to serve a probationary period.

This is not a Federal Service position but offers similar benefits and has similar requirements. To view the Smithsonian’s Trust Fund Appointment Benefits, please visit https : / / www.si.edu / ohr / benefits.

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