JERA Americas is seeking a General ManagerPower Generation IT Operations to join the company’s IT team. This person will be dedicated to supporting the JERA Power Generation Operations teams and focused on overseeing and managing the information technology systems and infrastructure within a utilities operations environment by providing management support of the third party vendors providing the IT services at the Power Generation sites. This role combines technical expertise with leadership skills to ensure the smooth operation and optimization of IT systems supporting Power Generation operations, with a strong focus on delivering IT solutions that meet compliance with CIP standards and NERC requirements, and bringing standardization across the Power Generation assets of JERA.
- IT Strategy and Planning:
- Develop and implement an IT strategy aligned with the goals and objectives of the CTO Operations team.
- Identify and prioritize IT initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, reliability, and customer service.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to define technology requirements and roadmap for the CTO Operations team.
- IT Infrastructure Management:
- Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, storage, and security systems of utilities operations where CTO Operations have the management contract. Provide consultation and review services for other Power Generation sites as required by the Power Generation operations teams.
- Ensure the availability, scalability, and performance of IT systems to meet operational needs.
- Support and Manage relationships with vendors, contractors, and service providers to ensure effective delivery of IT infrastructure services where required by the Power Generation Operations teams.
- Be an integral member of the Power Generation operations team
- System Integration and Optimization:
- Identify opportunities to leverage technology and data integration to optimize utilities operations processes.
- Coordinate with internal teams to define requirements and implement integrated systems for efficient data collection, monitoring, and analysis.
- Continuously assess and improve IT systems to enhance operational effectiveness and minimize downtime.
- Cybersecurity and Data Protection:
- Develop, monitor and enforce IT security policies and procedures to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with relevant regulations, including CIP standards and NERC requirements.
- Ensure the Implementation of robust cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls as required to meet CIP and JERA standards.
- Stay updated with emerging security threats and industry best practices to proactively address potential risks.
- Team Leadership and Development:
- Lead and support a team of IT professionals and third part vendors, providing guidance, coaching, and performance feedback as required by the Power Generation Operations teams.
- Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment, promoting teamwork and knowledge sharing.
- Budgeting and Resource Management:
- Support the Power Generation Operations team in the development and management of the IT budget for the Power Generation plants, helping to ensure optimal allocation of resources.
- Evaluate, recommend and assist with hardware, software, and IT services procurement within budgetary constraints.
- Support Power Generation Operations team in monitoring IT expenses and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising operational requirements, and alert to potential over budget issues.
- Compliance and Regulatory Adherence:
- Work to support compliance with CIP standards and requirements set by NERC, as well as other relevant regulatory requirements, industry standards, and data privacy regulations.
- Assist in maintaininjg documentation and records to demonstrate compliance and support audits.
- Collaborate with legal and compliance teams to address any IT-related compliance issues.
Required Education and Experience
- Bachelor of Science Degree in computer science, information technology or related engineering field.
- A minimum of 6 years of experience delivering / supporting the delivery of IT with CIP Certification requirements for a Power Generation facility in a leadership role
- Completed or led the team that completed a CIP Compliance Certification of CIP Medium
- Familiarity with SCADA systems and related technologies
- Proficient in IT Infrastructure management, including servers, network, storage, communication and cybersecurity.
- In-depth knowledge of utility operations, processes, systems and related technologies
Preferred Education and Experience
- Masters degree in Engineering or Computer Science
- 10+ years experience
Additional Eligibility Qualifications
- Project Management certification a plus