Director, IT Application & E-Commerce Solutions

The Royal Conservatory (RCM) is one of the largest and most respected music education institutions in the world, providing the definitive standard of excellence in curriculum design, assessment, performance training, and teacher certification. It is also a leader in the development of early childhood education programs and arts-based social programs, and presents a diverse range of concerts featuring the finest Canadian and international artists in its magnificent performance space, Koerner Hall. Please visit *** for more information.

What is the Opportunity?

The Director, IT Application & E-Commerce Solutions is responsible for directing the software development activities of Information Technology team at The Royal Conservatory. Reporting to the Vice President, Information Technology, the Director leads a team comprised of development managers, developers, architects, business analysts, vendors, consultants, and others focusing on core applications such as the Exam Registration System, Teacher Directory, SmartStart, Multiple Student Information Systems, Microsoft Business Central and implementation of RCM's E-Commerce platform based on Shopify.

The Director provides portfolio-level oversight of application development including building the application portfolio roadmap, managing new development requests, managing the day-to-day IT project planning process which includes resourcing, creating, and managing project budgets and managing deliverables. Also available to jump in and code if needed.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

• Acts as the IT Application Development & E-Commerce Subject Matter Expert
• Manages direct reports, including resourcing, interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems
• Manages project deliverables, project and operational budgets, resources, scope, timeline, including creation of project artefacts such as RFP's, charters, etc.
• Manages relationships with key business stakeholders
• Manages the software development lifecycle (Agile) for all supported applications
• Utilizes software development best practices and understands emerging trends, ensures that architectural standards and processes are followed
• Performs business analysis and develops detailed specifications for complex projects as needed
• Integrates E-Commerce platforms and supported applications
• Designs and works with complex data models
• Develops complex code solutions as needed
• Develops and maintains customer relationships with business partners and staff ensuring that expectations are set, met, and delivered as committed
• Using business strategy skills, defines and executes various application development methodologies and processes
• Works in accordance with all health and safety requirements
• Performs other duties as required

Job Requirements:

What We're Looking For

• University degree in the Information Technology field, 10-12 years related experience with 5+ years managing a team.
• Substantial knowledge and experience in:
  • Current application development approaches (cloud considerations, agile delivery, managing relationships with vendors)
  • PHP (Drupal), JavaScript (ReactJS / NextJS, NodeJS, Strapi)
  • Relational databases using MySQL, Postgres and MSSQL
  • AWS cloud
  • Content Management Systems (CMS), Strapi, Drupal and Kentico
  • E-Commerce systems such as Shopify or Adobe Commerce (Magento)
  • ERP integration preferably with Microsoft 365 Business Central
  • Managing IT software projects, PMI PMP certification an asset
  • Secure software design and best practices
  • Mobile application development
• Knowledge of business requirements related to educational institution project management, procurement, collaboration
• Strong organizational and estimation skills
• Capability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with ability to express ideas and opinions clearly and effectively in English
• Ability to present ideas in business-friendly and user-friendly language
• Keen attention to detail with superior analytical, evaluative, and problem-solving abilities
• Exceptional client service orientation
• Other applicable Industry certifications considered an asset

Salary Range

• $130,000 - $140,000 per annum
  

Additional Information

• This role has nine (9) direct reports
• Hybrid work arrangement, being on-site three (3) days on a weekly basis at the RCM building in Toronto, Ontario, inclusive of RCM All Staff days
• Availability to be on call and work evenings and work periodic overtime
• Works with confidential issues and data
  

How to Apply

Interested candidates are asked to submit a cover letter and current résumé online (please upload a single file combining both documents) at ***/about-us/careers-royal-conservatory. Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate has been identified.

The RCM thanks all applicants for their interest in this position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The RCM is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, and the RCM's Anti-Racism, Access and Equity Policy, accommodation will be provided at any stage of in the recruitment and selection process. Applicants are asked to make their accommodation needs known when they have been contacted for an interview.