Director, IT Operations

• Own the IT operations budget; forecast, track, and report spend, including cloud and SaaS cost optimization.
• Build and maintain the IT operations roadmap aligned to company growth, headcount, and facilities plans, such as office moves and new sites.
• Lead, coach, and develop the internal IT operations team.
• Develop, enforce, and update IT policies, standards, runbooks, and best practices to support a secure and efficient technology environment.
• Identify and implement automation and AI-assisted operations to improve efficiency, reliability, and self-service.
• Maintain detailed documentation of system configurations, vendor agreements, and IT processes.
• Lead IT projects from conception to completion — including risk management and mitigation.
• Support compliance and audit programs (e.g., SOC 2) by maintaining accurate IT and control documentation and remediating findings.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and vendor offerings to enhance IT capabilities and streamline operations, working with the MSP where appropriate.
• Provide regular updates and clear communication on IT initiatives, risks, and progress to executives and cross-functional teams.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• 8+ years in IT operations or infrastructure, including 3+ years leading staff and/or managing an MSP and vendors, preferably in real estate finance or another regulated industry.
• Demonstrated ownership of enterprise infrastructure, identity, endpoint management, and Microsoft 365.
• Hands-on experience with Microsoft Entra ID and Microsoft Intune (MDM).
• Strong networking and security fundamentals — firewalls, VPN, segmentation, Zero Trust principles, and IAM.
• Cisco Meraki experience a plus.
• Experience running an IT service management (ITSM)/service-desk function and meeting defined SLAs, plus budget ownership and vendor/contract negotiation.
• Experience supporting compliance frameworks (e.g., SOC 2) and business continuity/disaster recovery.
• Relevant certifications preferred (e.g., ITIL, Microsoft M365/Azure, CISSP, or Security+).
• Excellent leadership, project management, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Salary range is up to $180,000 per year, with a discretionary bonus of 15% per year

• This role works on-site from Ascent's Encino office, Monday - Thursday (Fridays are work-from-home).

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and work-life balance.

Our benefits include five health plans, two dental plans, health savings and flexible spending accounts, vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, and other optional benefits from which to choose.

We pledge to be fair and considerate in hiring and promoting individuals, ensuring everyone can contribute their fullest potential regardless of background, identity, or personal circumstances.

By promoting equal opportunity, we not only enhance our workplace but also contribute to a more just and equitable society.

At Ascent, we stand united in building a community where everyone is empowered to succeed.

Thank you for joining us on our journey towards a more inclusive future.