About Calian

At Calian, we help organizations overcome obstacles, manage risks, and drive progress. Since 1982, we’ve grown from a small consulting firm into a trusted global company across defence, space, health, nuclear energy, public safety, and government.

We create innovative solutions that tackle complex challenges and help organizations and communities stay resilient, informed, and connected. If you’re driven by purpose and energized by solving real-world challenges, we want you on our team.

Job Type: Full Time

Position Overview

Calian is investing in a modern, secure, and scalable enterprise technology foundation to support continued growth across health, defence, learning, and public safety. We are seeking a Director of Information Systems to lead the strategy and execution of enterprise infrastructure and cloud services, ensuring technology is reliable, resilient, and aligned to business needs.

Reporting to the Chief Information Officer, this role is accountable for enterprise infrastructure, cloud platforms, networks, end user services, and core technology platforms. You will partner closely with executive and business leaders to modernize systems, strengthen cybersecurity, and build a technology foundation that supports both current operations and long term growth.

This role is well suited to a seasoned technology leader who combines clear strategic thinking with strong operational discipline. You have led infrastructure and cloud environments at scale, navigated modernization while maintaining operational stability, and earned trust through thoughtful decision making and consistent delivery.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

  • Develop and execute the multi‑year technology infrastructure and cloud strategy aligned with organizational objectives.
  • Lead digital modernization initiatives, including cloud migrations, network modernization, automation, and technology lifecycle management.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on technology trends, risks, and investment opportunities.

Technology Operations & Governance

  • Oversee enterprise infrastructure including networks, servers, storage, end‑user computing, identity services, and collaboration platforms.
  • Define and enforce technology standards, architecture patterns, and security practices in partnership with Cybersecurity and Enterprise Architecture.
  • Ensure high availability, resilience, and scalability of mission‑critical systems.
  • Lead IT governance, policy development, and compliance management.

Team & Vendor Leadership

  • Build, mentor, and inspire a high‑performing operations team.
  • Foster a culture of innovation, customer service, and continuous improvement.
  • Manage key vendors, contracts, and strategic technology partnerships; negotiate service contracts to maximize value.

Financial & Project Management

  • Own departmental budgeting, forecasting, and long‑term capital planning.
  • Oversee delivery of major technology projects and ensure alignment with business goals.
  • Optimize operational costs through modernization, automation, and strategic sourcing.

Qualifications

  • 8 or more years of progressive IT leadership experience across infrastructure, operations, and service delivery.
  • Demonstrated success leading large scale infrastructure and cloud transformation initiatives.
  • Strong knowledge of enterprise infrastructure, networking, virtualization, data centres, Microsoft 365, identity and access management, and cybersecurity best practices.
  • Experience implementing ITIL or ITSM practices and improving operational maturity.
  • Proven experience managing budgets, vendors, and complex technology partnerships.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to influence and build trust at all levels.

Compensation

$150,000 – $180,000 + incentive plan

Vacancy

There is one (1) open position, with a preference for candidates located in the Ottawa, ON area and available to work a hybrid schedule (3 days per week onsite).

#LI-RL1# #SF#

AI Usage Disclosure

At Calian, we do not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to screen or evaluate candidates. AI tools may support backend administrative tasks, but they do not influence hiring decisions. All evaluations and decisions are made by real people on our recruitment team and hiring managers. All applicants are reviewed and only those chosen for an interview will be contacted by our recruiting team.

How we hire

  • Our hiring process is designed to help us get to know you and discover if you are the best fit for our team. It’s also an opportunity for you to gauge if a role at Calian is the right fit for you.

    Throughout the process, we’ll share details of the kind of work you’ll be doing, the projects you’ll be working on, the team you’ll be joining, and what it’s like working at Calian. Our biggest tip throughout the process is to  just be your authentic self! 
  • Our commitment to diverse, yet highly specialized solutions require many different skills and abilities. We look for the best talent that can contribute to Calian’s success as well as enhance our  culture. We encourage you to apply to a role or join our talent community and sign up for job alerts that match your area of expertise and what you are looking for in your next opportunity.  

    During the recruiting process, you’re encouraged to notify us of any accommodations you may require. We’ll be happy to help. 

  • We give the same time and consideration to everyone who applies. Here are a few things you can do to ensure your application shines: 

    • Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join 
    • Add a cover letter that explains why you are a good fit for this position  
    • Share a portfolio, personal websites, or links to your professional social media 
    • In your CV, highlight your key achievements – this is your time to brag 
    • Include dates! Share the timeline of your experience 
    • Stand out by tailoring your resume to each position you apply to  
    • Only apply to roles you’re genuinely interested in and that align to your experience 
    • Be prepared! Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join
    • View the responsibilities for the role and find examples that demonstrate how you’ve completed these in your previous work  experience 
    • Prepare a list of questions to ask us 
    • Dress business casual for your interview (virtual and in person) 
    • We assess your skills and fit, you assess our fit for you 
    • We keep you updated and share expectations as we make progress in the recruiting cycle  
    • Feel free to reach out to your Talent Acquisition Specialist at any time during the hiring process 

Perks and benefits

  • Flexible work hours
  • Robust company-paid benefits
  • Generous time off package
  • A balanced approach to work and life
  • Stock purchase plan
  • RRSP program*
  • Work from home options