INFORMATION SYSTEMS MANAGER

SUMMARY:

The Information Systems Manager works under general direction and is responsible for planning and directing resources in the development, implementation, and maintenance of the computer and network systems for the state. This position is governed by state and federal laws and institution policy.

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:

Directs the activities of a professional, technical, and administrative support staff through subordinate supervisors including: interviewing, hiring, terminating, reviewing performance evaluations conducted by subordinates, evaluating the performance of subordinates, and reviewing and approving/disapproving a variety of actions, policies, and procedures recommended by subordinates, preparing short and long range plans, preparing, implementing, and monitoring operational and biennial budgets.

Coordinates team operations with other functions within the agency to ensure the development and implementation of operational procedures.

Analyzes relevant new or revised laws and executive policies and coordinates with system users to evaluate current automated systems and determines what changes may be necessary to meet user needs and ensures compliance with statutory requirements.

Directs the development of new or revised applications with appropriate entities by providing information on desired results, data base components, informational flow, interfaces with other systems, and screen and report formats.

Evaluates the capacity and capabilities of the automated administrative system, investigates technological advances and the compatibility, availability, and costs of products, and develops short and long-range plans for the acquisition of computer hardware and software to support current and future statewide operations.

Negotiates and develops vendor contracts for recommendation to senior management staff, designates performance standards and deliverables, and monitors adherence to contract specifications.

Plans the implementation of diverse, new and/or modified software to ensure compatibility with existing system and testing requirements and recommend and enforce standards and procedures.

Establishes schedules and priorities for system development and monitors development stages to ensure the validity of data and reports and adherence to deadlines.

Resolves user or information system problems not resolved at a lower level by investigating the source of the problem and initiating corrective action including contacting vendors if appropriate.

Attends legislative committee meetings to respond to questions and coordinates with legislative staff on the drafting and reviewing of legislative affecting statewide administrative processes.

Implements special projects by assigning work activities, monitoring progress through supervisory personnel, and preparing status reports or making presentations as required.

Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:

Knowledge of the application of systems analysis and programming in automated information systems. Knowledge of state and federal fiscal, procurement, budget, human resources, and payroll laws and processes and administrative practices and procedures. Ability to plan work unit objectives and operational activities and to assign and direct the work of subordinate supervisors. Ability to prepare and present oral and written technical information and reports. Ability to coordinate the development, implementation, and maintenance of information systems. Ability to research, analyze, evaluate data, situations, project outcomes, and resolve problems. Ability to draft legislation, interpret and apply laws, regulations, executive orders, and guidelines.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

The formal education of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field; plus five years of experience in computer support operations, including three years in a supervisory capacity.

OR

Completion of technical training in computer science, data processing, or a related field acquired from a vocational, military or industrial setting, plus five years of experience in computer support operations, including three years in a supervisory capacity.

Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

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.