Director of IT in Long Beach, California at Image Solutions Apparel Inc

Location: Long Beach, CA (Hybrid – 3 days/week on-site)

Reports to: SVP & General Manager

Team: 6 Software Developers, 1 IT Admin, Contractor Partners, Interns

Who We Are

Image Solutions is a fast-growing custom uniform partner serving some of the most recognizable brands in North America—like Discount Tire, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and Albertson’s. We design, source, manufacture, and distribute uniforms across multiple industries. Our tech-forward approach and people-first culture fuel our mission: to help people look and feel great at work. Headquartered in Long Beach, CA, with a 100,000 sq ft distribution center in Cincinnati, OH, we are proud to donate 10% of profits to charity each year.

Position Summary

We are seeking a visionary and strategic Director of Information Technology and Systems to lead our technology function across a growing, innovation-driven organization. This role is pivotal in shaping and executing our technology strategy, overseeing enterprise systems, guiding software development, and ensuring robust cybersecurity. As a key member of the leadership team, you will contribute to the company’s vision, mission, and values while fostering a high-performance culture that supports our continued growth across two states and a team of 90+ employees.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing IT and software development team.
• Cultivate a collaborative, inclusive, and growth-oriented team culture.
• Implement professional development programs and succession planning to support team growth and retention.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure IT is a strategic partner across the organization.
• Preferred: Participation in a leadership academy or formal leadership development program.

Technology Strategy

• Develop and execute a forward-thinking IT strategy aligned with the company’s business goals and growth trajectory.
• Partner with executive leadership to shape and support the organization’s vision, mission, and values through technology.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and trends to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.

Enterprise System Ownership

• Oversee the architecture, implementation, and optimization of enterprise systems (e.g., ERP, CRM, HRIS, financial systems).
• Ensure seamless integration between systems to support cross-functional workflows and data integrity.
• Drive automation and process improvements across departments through technology solutions.
• Manage system upgrades, migrations, and lifecycle planning.

Software Development Oversight

• Provide strategic leadership to the internal software development team, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Oversee the full software development lifecycle (SDLC), including planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance.
• Champion agile methodologies and DevOps practices to accelerate delivery and improve product quality.
• Foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.

Security and Compliance

• Own the organization’s cybersecurity strategy, ensuring the protection of data, systems, and infrastructure.
• Implement and maintain security policies, risk management practices, and compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR).
• Lead incident response planning and execution, including disaster recovery and business continuity strategies.
• Conduct regular security audits and assessments.

Vendor and Infrastructure Management

• Manage relationships with technology vendors, consultants, and service providers to ensure optimal performance and value.
• Oversee IT infrastructure, including cloud services, networks, hardware, and software assets.
• Negotiate contracts and manage budgets for IT and software services.
• Ensure high availability, scalability, and reliability of all technology systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, including 5+ years in a senior management role.
• Proven experience leading software development teams and enterprise IT operations.
• Strong understanding of cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, DevOps, and modern software architecture.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, team development, and cross-functional leadership.
• Experience in a high-growth, technology-driven organization preferred.
• Participation in a leadership academy or formal leadership development program is a strong plus.
• Bonus: Experience with apparel, distribution, manufacturing, or eCommerce systems.

Key Competencies

• Strategic and systems thinking
• Executive presence and communication
• Change management and digital transformation
• Team leadership and talent development
• Business acumen and customer-centric mindset
• Risk management and compliance expertise

Why Join Image Solutions?

• Competitive compensation package + leadership bonus
• 401(k) with matching contributions
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Hybrid work environment with in-office collaboration
• A growing, mission-driven company that invests in its people
• Recognition through Milestone Rewards (5–10–15 years)
• Opportunity to shape the tech future of a fast-scaling business