Director, Information Systems (BHS)

Job description

Reports to the Chief Information Officer (CIO). Provides leadership in the development, implementation, support and maintenance of computer applications for Beacon Health System. Plans, directs and ensures the timely implementation of all programming projects completed by the Information Systems staff. Maintains expertise regarding the business needs and resource capabilities of all BHS entities. Serves in a project management capacity, when rolling out new computer applications and implementing major conversions and upgrades to existing computer applications. Directs the activities of the Programming staff, the Applications Analysts (from both the clinical and financial functional areas), the Project Leaders and the clinical informatics area.
MISSION, VALUES and SERVICE GOALS
• MISSION: We deliver outstanding care, inspire health, and connect with heart.
• VALUES: Trust. Respect. Integrity. Compassion.
• SERVICE GOALS: Personally connect. Keep everyone informed. Be on their team.

Provides leadership in the development, implementation, support and maintenance of computer applications by:
• Developing short- and long-term goals and objectives for designated functional areas based upon Beacon Health System's mission, values, vision and strategy.
• Gathering, interpreting and preparing data regarding the business needs and resource capabilities of all BHS entities.
• Developing and preparing an annual budget. Monitoring expenditures to ensure sound fiscal control.
• Managing assigned operational areas and monitoring expenditures in order to achieve goals and objectives with available resources.
• Recruiting, interviewing, hiring and evaluating (and, if necessary, coaching and disciplining) assigned team members (through reporting management/supervisors as applicable). Also directing the ongoing training and ensuring a comprehensive orientation for new team members.
• Establishing and maintaining standards for quality, efficiency and timeliness, policies and procedures.
• Working with the Chief Security Officer to ensure the accuracy, integrity and security over all databases. Also overseeing the education of end users.
• Establishing schedules and priorities for all programming projects.
• Participating in the formulation, planning and implementation of computer applications throughout BHS.
• Directing all activities related to system security for software users.
• Providing leadership in the formation and development of BHS's clinical informatics area.
• Acting as a liaison and facilitator with end-user departments and vendors concerning Information Systems service and systems. Also directing all activities related to quality assurance.
• Developing and providing comprehensive status reports to senior management, which reflect the overall performance of assigned functional areas.
• Providing ongoing technical guidance and assistance (for example, regarding project implementations plans) to the department team members.

Maintains expertise regarding the business needs and resource capabilities of all BHS entities and serves as a liaison and facilitator by:
• Facilitating the effective utilization of software programs by end users.
• Acting as a liaison with end-user departments. Also ensuring the delivery of services which meet their needs.
• Maintaining ongoing communications with management personnel from the various BHS entities and departments. Also maintaining communications with other Information Systems staff to keep them apprised of operational details that could impact their respective area.

Serves in a project management capacity when rolling out new computer applications and implementing major conversions and upgrades to existing systems by:
• Managing multiple projects and directing the computer applications operational infrastructure of assigned areas.
• Communicating with senior management regarding projects in order to ensure cooperation and to further define the nature of the projects; also championing consistent project management practices.
• Preparing project roll-out and conversion time-frame estimates/schedules and providing regular status reviews and updates.
• Communicating with other Information Systems staff and vendors to resolve project-related problems as required.

Performs other functions to maintain personal competence and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the department by:
• Ensuring that excellent customer service is provided at all times. Also overseeing the systems and procedures which receive input on end-user department satisfaction.
• Assisting the Chief Information Officer (CIO) with the negotiation of contracts for new computer software systems.
• Seeking possible opportunities to more effectively utilize BHS computer capabilities.
• Ensuring a high level of integration among appropriate BHS computer systems.
• Monitoring projects and work assignments in progress and providing updates to the CIO as necessary.
• Reviewing and directing changes in order to improve various operational areas.
• Maintaining department records, reports and files as required. Also ensuring that assigned team members fulfill their responsibilities according to established departmental policies and procedures.
• Overseeing the care and maintenance of department facilities, equipment and supplies.
• Participating in (and representing the department at) various committees and task force groups.
• Completing other job-related assignments and special projects as directed.

Leadership Competencies
• Drives Results - Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances.
• Customer Focus - Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions.
• Instills Trust - Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
• Collaborates - Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Communicates Effectively - Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Associate complies with the following organizational requirements:
• Attends and participates in department meetings and is accountable for all information shared.
• Completes mandatory education, annual competencies and department specific education within established timeframes.
• Completes annual employee health requirements within established timeframes.
• Maintains license/certification, registration in good standing throughout fiscal year.
• Direct patient care providers are required to maintain current BCLS (CPR) and other certifications as required by position/department.
• Consistently utilizes appropriate universal precautions, protective equipment, and ergonomic techniques to protect patient and self.
• Adheres to regulatory agency requirements, survey process and compliance.
• Complies with established organization and department policies.
• Available to work overtime in addition to working additional or other shifts and schedules when required.

Education and Experience
• The knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated below are normally acquired through the successful completion of a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems (or a closely related field) from an accredited college or university. Five to seven years of relevant, progressively responsible management experience (preferably in a large healthcare organization with multiple sites), of which three to five years was in the management of system-wide computer applications, is required.

Knowledge & Skills
• Requires considerable knowledge of information technology, modern electronic data processing theory, principles and practices, management information systems, network engineering, database management, mainframe computer systems, Internet/Intranet applications and systems security. Also requires advanced knowledge of the various computer software applications used at BHS and advanced computer programming skills.
• Requires a high level of analytical, problem-solving, organization and project management skills.
• Demonstrates the solid management skills needed to function independently and provide effective direction to various areas of the department. Also requires the ability to plan and manage the effective utilization of resources (both personnel and financial).
• Requires advanced knowledge of Information Systems departmental policies, procedures and practices.
• Demonstrates the strong interpersonal skills necessary to interact effectively with all levels of BHS management and staff and outside contacts.
• Demonstrates well-developed communication (both verbal and written) and training skills.

Working Conditions
• Works in an office environment.
• This position requires a strong commitment to a 24 hours/day, 7 days/week computer operations environment.
• May experience some mental/visual fatigue due to continued use of computer equipment.

Physical Demands
• Requires the physical ability and stamina to perform the essential functions of the position.