Executive Director - Strategic Data Intelligence

JOB SUMMARY

The Executive Director – Strategic Data Intelligence leads the districtwide strategy for data governance, analytics, reporting, and decision support. This role oversees a high-performing team responsible for managing, securing, and visualizing enterprise data from both business systems (ERP, finance, HR, procurement) and student systems (SIS, LMS, attendance, SPED, etc.). The Executive Director ensures HISD’s data platforms—including Microsoft Fabric, Microsoft Azure Synapse Analytics and Power BI —support equity, transparency, operational excellence, and compliance with internal and external mandates.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the vision and execution of data strategies across business and instructional domains.
• Oversee the design, implementation, and performance of HISD’s enterprise analytics environment (Fabric, Power BI, and integrated platforms).
• Supervise directors and teams responsible for data management, governance, visualization, architecture, and predictive analytics.
• Develop policies and best practices for secure data access, FERPA compliance, and operational use of sensitive datasets.
• Align districtwide reporting efforts to support academic outcomes, resource equity, budgeting, staffing, compliance, and community transparency.
• Facilitate cross-departmental collaboration to deliver timely, accurate, and user-centered dashboards.
• Lead district participation in open data initiatives, state reporting, Ed-Fi data standards and strategic data partnerships.
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MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED

• Champion data literacy and fluency across academic, business, and campus leadership teams.
• Monitor performance metrics, data usage, and quality standards across all teams.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION

A Master's degree in information systems, data science, or a related field is preferred. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree plus relevant work experience is acceptable.    

WORK EXPERIENCE

Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership in data management, analytics, or IT systems. At least 5 years in a K–12, higher education, or public sector environment.    

SKILL AND/OR REQUIRED LICENSING/CERTIFICATION

• Deep expertise in enterprise analytics platforms (e.g., Microsoft Fabric, Power BI, Azure Synapse Analytics)
• Knowledge of FERPA, HIPAA, and data privacy standards
• Strong understanding of both operational (ERP) and instructional (SIS, LMS) data structures
• Strong understanding of Ed-Fi data standard and API technology
• Excellent executive communication and strategic planning skills    

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervises multiple director-level positions and cross-functional teams. Leads strategic planning and governance across data domains.    

WORK COMPLEXITY/INDEPENDENT JUDGMENT

Manages complex, high-stakes data environments. Makes districtwide decisions affecting reporting, security, compliance, and transparency.

BUDGET AUTHORITY

Oversees departmental budget, tools, licenses, staffing, and external contracts related to enterprise data platforms.

PROBLEM SOLVING

Resolves conflicts in data interpretation, access, and system integration. Aligns competing priorities into cohesive strategy.

IMPACT OF DECISIONS

Decisions influence funding, staffing, compliance, academic policy, and public perception. Directly impacts HISD’s ability to measure progress and equity.

COMMUNICATION/INTERACTIONS

Regularly communicates with Cabinet-level leadership, Board of Education, academic officers, and technology executives.    

CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS

Serves as the chief steward of district data. Builds trust and usability across all levels of HISD leadership and external stakeholders.

WORKING/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Office setting. May involve extended hours during major reporting cycles or strategic planning periods, hybrid setting available.