Role Overview for Chief Technology Officer with a Public Utilities Co. – Charlotte, NC
JRG Partners is proud to conduct an exclusive executive search for a visionary and strategic Chief Technology Officer (CTO) on behalf of our client, a prominent and well-established public utilities company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. This is a pivotal leadership role for an individual passionate about leveraging technology to power essential community services, enhance operational resilience, and drive the future of energy and water infrastructure. The successful candidate will be a transformative leader responsible for the entire technological direction of the organization, from enterprise IT systems to critical operational technology (OT).
As the CTO, you will join a dedicated executive team committed to ensuring the safe, reliable, and sustainable delivery of services to millions of customers. You will be entrusted with developing and executing a forward-thinking technology roadmap that not only supports current operations but also anticipates future challenges and opportunities, including grid modernization, cybersecurity threats, digital customer engagement, and data-driven decision-making.
Your vision will directly impact the company’s ability to innovate, improve efficiency, and maintain its commitment to public trust and regulatory compliance. This position requires a unique blend of deep technical expertise, strategic business acumen, and inspirational leadership. You will be the champion of technological advancement within the company, fostering a culture of innovation, security, and excellence across a diverse and talented team of IT professionals.
The role is based in the vibrant and growing city of Charlotte, NC, offering a fantastic quality of life and a dynamic business environment. If you are a seasoned technology executive with a proven track record in critical infrastructure environments and a desire to make a tangible impact on a community’s foundational services, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Technology Officer with a Public Utilities Co. – Charlotte, NC
The Chief Technology Officer will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, overseeing the people, processes, and technologies that power the organization. Key duties include:
Strategic Technology Planning and Execution
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-term technology vision and strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business goals, regulatory requirements, and customer service commitments. Lead the annual IT strategic planning and budgeting processes, ensuring resources are allocated to the highest-priority initiatives.
Infrastructure and Operations Management
Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of a robust, scalable, and highly available technology infrastructure. This includes data centers, cloud environments (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), enterprise networking, telecommunications, and end-user computing. Ensure 24/7/365 operational integrity for all critical systems.
Cybersecurity and Risk Management
Act as the chief steward of the company’s information security. Develop, implement, and continuously improve a comprehensive cybersecurity program based on industry best practices and frameworks (e.g., NIST). Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, such as NERC CIP, and protect both Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) assets from evolving threats. Lead incident response and disaster recovery planning.
Digital Transformation and Innovation
Champion digital transformation initiatives aimed at modernizing the utility. Drive the adoption of emerging technologies such as IoT for smart grid/metering, data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) to enhance predictive maintenance, optimize grid operations, and improve customer experience.
Leadership and Team Development
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing, agile, and collaborative technology organization. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and innovation. Structure the IT department to effectively support the diverse needs of the business, from corporate functions to field operations.
Operational Technology (OT) Oversight
Provide strategic oversight for the technology systems that directly control physical infrastructure, including Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and other industrial control systems. Ensure seamless and secure integration between IT and OT environments.
Vendor and Financial Management
Manage the IT budget effectively, ensuring optimal return on technology investments. Oversee relationships with key technology vendors, partners, and service providers. Lead contract negotiations and ensure service level agreements (SLAs) are met or exceeded.
Executive Collaboration and Communication
Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, providing expert counsel on all technology-related matters. Effectively communicate complex technical concepts, risks, and opportunities to the CEO, Board of Directors, and other non-technical stakeholders to facilitate informed decision-making.
Requirements for the Chief Technology Officer with a Public Utilities Co. – Charlotte, NC
We are seeking a distinguished leader with a deep understanding of technology’s role in a critical infrastructure setting. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline or an MBA is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in technology leadership, with at least 5-7 years in a senior executive role (e.g., CTO, CIO, VP of IT) with significant strategic and budgetary responsibility.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable experience within the public utilities, energy, or a similar highly regulated, asset-intensive industry is essential. A strong understanding of the unique challenges and technological needs of critical infrastructure is required.
Technical Proficiency
Broad and deep knowledge across multiple technology domains, including enterprise architecture, cloud computing (Azure/AWS), modern data platforms, enterprise applications (ERP, CIS), and networking. Crucially, experience with Operational Technology (OT) environments is highly desirable.
Cybersecurity Acumen
Proven experience in developing and managing comprehensive cybersecurity programs for complex enterprises. Familiarity with relevant security frameworks and regulatory standards is mandatory.
Leadership and Management Skills
Exceptional leadership capabilities with a proven ability to build, inspire, and manage large, multi-disciplinary technology teams. A track record of successfully leading major change management and digital transformation projects.
Strategic and Business Acumen
The ability to think strategically and link technology initiatives directly to business outcomes. Strong financial management skills and experience managing multi-million dollar budgets.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to build consensus, influence stakeholders at all levels, and serve as a trusted advisor to the executive team and board.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a comprehensive and competitive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
Competitive Executive Salary
A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.
Performance-Based Incentives
A lucrative annual bonus plan and long-term incentive program tied to both individual and company performance.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Includes wellness programs and health savings accounts (HSA).
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with a significant company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A substantial paid time off (PTO) package, including vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your professional growth with support for continuing education, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Work-Life Balance
A commitment to supporting a healthy work-life balance within a demanding but rewarding executive role.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the sole and exclusive recruitment partner for this critical Chief Technology Officer position. All applications and inquiries will be handled with the strictest confidentiality.
If you are a transformative technology leader ready to take on a new challenge and make a lasting impact, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications for this role. To learn more about our expertise in placing senior technology executives, please visit the JRG Partners’ Technology Officers practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your application.
