Director of IT Operations and Cybersecurity Job at Vantage Specialty Chemicals i

Director of IT Operations and Cybersecurity

The Director of IT Operations and Cybersecurity is a senior technology leader responsible for global IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, desktop support, and service desk functions. This role ensures secure, resilient, and scalable IT services across the enterprise, including management of cloud platforms, network operations, OT environments, and end‑user computing. The role leads global teams and partners cross‑functionally to align IT operations with business priorities.

Responsibilities

• Infrastructure & Cloud Operations: Lead global IT infrastructure including Azure cloud, Microsoft 365 administration, on‑prem systems, storage, and hybrid environments.
• Networking: Oversee networking strategy, including enterprise LAN/WAN, SD‑WAN architecture, VPN access, and remote workforce enablement.
• Scale and Stability: Ensure stability and scalability of systems supporting both corporate IT and operational (OT) environments.
• Automation & Modernization: Drive automation, standardization, and modernization initiatives across infrastructure platforms.
• Cybersecurity Roadmap: Develop and execute a global cybersecurity roadmap covering identity, access, network security, and endpoint protection.
• Oversee vulnerability management, threat detection, incident response, and compliance with frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001, and CIS Controls.
• Establish data security standards across cloud and on‑prem platforms, including encryption, data loss prevention (DLP), and classification policies.
• Govern data residency, retention, and privacy compliance (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).
• Manage threat detection, incident response, vulnerability management, and third‑party risk across both IT and OT systems.
• Lead global service desk and desktop support teams, ensuring high user satisfaction and adherence to SLAs.
• Define ITSM processes and drive continuous improvement through metrics and automation.
• Standardize device management, patching, and support tooling across regions and business units.
• Build and lead a global, high‑performing IT operations team; mentor direct reports across infrastructure, security, and support.
• Collaborate with enterprise architects, application owners, and business stakeholders to ensure infrastructure supports digital initiatives.
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and enterprise licensing for platforms including Microsoft 365, Azure, SD‑WAN providers, and cybersecurity tools.
• Own and evolve the disaster recovery and business continuity strategy.

Education & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field; Master’s degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years in IT operations and/or infrastructure, with at least 5 years in a global leadership role.

Skills & Competencies

• Global Azure administration and hybrid cloud operations.
• Microsoft 365 platform (Exchange, Teams, SharePoint, Intune, Defender).
• Enterprise networking including SD‑WAN, firewalls, and VPN technologies.
• Operational Technology (OT) networks and integration with IT systems.
• Data security best practices: encryption, DLP, access controls, compliance.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001) and IT governance.
• Experience with ITSM tools, infrastructure monitoring platforms, and identity/access management solutions.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Working Conditions

Ability to travel globally.

Pay and Benefits

Estimated base pay range: $190,000 – $280,000 annually, plus short‑term incentive program. Comprehensive benefits include medical, HSA, dental, vision; FSA; life and AD&D; accident, hospital indemnity, critical illness; short‑ and long‑term disability; EAP, identity theft protection; paid time off, parental leave; 401(k) with company match.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Vantage is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other protected category.

About Vantage

Vantage provides natural solutions to our customers’ technical performance and marketing needs through a unique combination of chemistry, application expertise and service. The company operates in 11 countries worldwide and employs more than 1,000 professionals focused on delivering exceptional customer experiences.