Chief Strategy Officer (CSO)

Company Description

The Office of Innovation & Technology (OIT) is the central IT agency for the City of Philadelphia headed by the
Chief Information Officer (CIO). OIT oversees all major information and communications technology initiatives for the City of Philadelphia - increasing the effectiveness of the information technology infrastructure, where the services provided are advanced, optimized, and responsive to the needs of the City of Philadelphia’s businesses, residents, and visitors. OIT responsibilities include: identifying the most effective approach for implementing new information technology directions throughout city government; improving the value of the city’s technology assets and the return on the city’s technology investments; ensuring data security continuity; planning for continuing operations in the event of disruption of information technology or communications services; and supporting accountable, efficient and effective government across every city department, board, commission and agency.

The City of Philadelphia’s Office of Innovation and Technology is seeking a visionary and innovative leader for the role of Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer (CSO). This role is essential for addressing the need for enterprise-wide strategic planning and performance management. The CSO will lead the Strategy and Communications division, oversee strategic partners, manage traditional and social media marketing and communications units, and identify ways to highlight the outstanding work produced by the Office of Innovation and Technology (OIT) to the residents. Additionally, the CSO will collaborate with industry partners to elevate the City technologically, creating data-driven strategies and processes while achieving breakthrough results.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning and Execution

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive strategic plans that align with the City’s mission, vision, and goals.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to identify and prioritize strategic initiatives.
• Establish performance metrics and dashboards to monitor progress and measure success against strategic objectives.
• Lead the development of long-term strategies that enhance organizational effectiveness and efficiency.

2. Performance Management

• Oversee the creation and implementation of performance management systems and processes.
• Monitor and analyze performance data to identify areas for improvement.
• Provide strategic insights and recommendations to improve overall organizational performance.
• Ensure alignment between strategic goals and departmental activities.

3. Leadership and Oversight

• Lead and manage the Strategy and Communications division, including strategic partners, marketing, and communications units.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment that promotes innovation and excellence.
• Mentor and develop staff, promoting professional growth and ensuring high levels of performance.

4. Strategic Partnerships and Innovation

• Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with external organizations, stakeholders, and community leaders.
• Collaborate with industry partners to explore and implement technological advancements that elevate the City.
• Leverage partnerships to enhance the City’s strategic initiatives and maximize resources.
• Represent the City in high-level meetings, conferences, and forums to promote strategic interests and innovation.

5. Marketing and Communications

• Oversee the development and execution of comprehensive marketing and communications strategies.
• Ensure effective internal and external communication of strategic initiatives and organizational achievements.
• Manage public relations efforts to enhance the City’s image and reputation.
• Develop and maintain consistent messaging across all communication channels.

6. Community Engagement and Outreach

• Identify and implement ways to showcase the great work produced by OIT to the residents of Philadelphia.
• Organize and oversee events that highlight OIT’s initiatives and achievements.
• Write articles and develop content for traditional and social media to engage the community and promote transparency.
• Foster a strong connection between OIT and the residents, ensuring that their needs and feedback are incorporated into strategic planning.

7. Data-Driven Strategy Development

• Create and implement data-driven strategies and processes to achieve breakthrough results.
• Utilize data analytics to inform decision-making and strategic planning.
• Continuously assess and refine strategies based on data insights and performance outcomes.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Strategic Management, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in strategic planning, performance management, and/or organizational development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of successful strategic plan development and execution in a complex organization.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills with the ability to anticipate future trends and consequences.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
• Superior communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to public service.

Personal Attributes

• Visionary leader with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
• Collaborative and inclusive approach to leadership.
• Results-oriented with a strong focus on accountability and performance.
• Resilient and adaptable, with the ability to navigate change effectively.

Additional Information

Salary Range: $160,000 - $175,000

Salary Range cannot exceed $175,000

All applications must include a cover letter. Applications without a cover letter will be considered incomplete. 

Did you know?
● We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer : 25% tuition discount program for City employees (and sometimes spouses and dependents as well) in partnership with area colleges and universities

● We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
● Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
● Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
● Generous retirement savings options are available

*The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire
Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race,
ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr @phila.gov. For more information, go to: Human Relations Website:
http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx

Client-provided location(s): Philadelphia, PA

Job ID: b043fa02-7db7-4ddd-8075-4d70bc4e5139

Employment Type: OTHER

Posted: 2025-12-17T23:32:40