Director of Information Technology bei Chicago Meat Authority

Chicago Meat Authority (CMA) is proud to have celebrated 35 years in the food industry. Located in Chicago’s historic Stockyards, CMA is a forward thinking processor of value added beef, pork, and poultry items with a strong focus on selling the Healthcare, Hotel, and Institutional Markets (HRI), meat purveyors, and Multi-unit regional and national chains up to and including big box stores. In addition, CMA specializes in custom cuts for further processors including but not limited to grinding operations, deli manufacturers, and the prepared entrée market.

CMA is seeking a hands-on IT Director with an entrepreneurial spirit to lead the company’s entire technology function, with primary responsibility for network reliability, infrastructure management, cybersecurity, ERP administration, and business systems continuity. The ideal candidate is a well-rounded technical generalist with strong expertise in Microsoft environments, capable of managing servers, networks, and core business systems while also supporting internal reporting and development needs.

This role is both strategic and operational — you will ensure day-to-day stability of critical systems while also shaping the company’s long-term technology roadmap.

Key Responsibilities

1. Infrastructure, Network & Systems Administration (Primary Focus)

• Oversee all on-premise and hybrid network infrastructure, including servers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, and backups.
• Ensure system uptime, cybersecurity protection, data backup integrity, and disaster recovery readiness.
• Administer Active Directory, Microsoft server environments, group policy management and user access control in an environment that includes but is not limited to hybrid cloud with integration between onsite virtualized servers in a clustered configuration along with Azure, Office 365, and Exchange.
• Implement and enforce cybersecurity policies and controls and monitor for threats, manage system updates, and maintain audit-ready documentation.
• Lead technology planning for scalability, modernization, and operational resilience.
  
  

1. Microsoft-Based Report Writing & Application & Database Development

• Develop or support application enhancements or integrations using .NET, SQL, or VBA.
• Use Microsoft tools such as SQL Server and the Microsoft Power Platform (heavy emphasis on SQL Server Reporting Services) to create dashboards, system reports, and data automation.
• Optimize database performance and ensure data integrity across business systems.
• Develop reporting and eliminate manual processes through practical automation.
  
  

1. ERP System Management & Business Systems Support

• Serve as the internal administrator for the company’s niche ERP system.
• Maintain system configurations, permissions, data accuracy, and user support.
• Manage and support the labeling software and hardware used in manufacturing operations.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues impacting real-time production processes.
• Collaborate with departmental leaders to improve workflows and implement ERP enhancements.
  
  

1. IT Leadership & Strategic Direction

• Serve as the primary IT resource for the organization, supporting 60+ users.
• Lead cross-departmental projects to completion.
• Provide guidance to leadership on technology investments and modernization initiatives.
• Manage external vendors and technology service providers.
• Develop a long-term infrastructure roadmap aligned with business goals.

Required Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive IT experience with strong emphasis on infrastructure, systems administration, and network management in a Microsoft environment.
• Experience with Windows Server, Active Directory, Group Policy, backup systems, and network security tools.
• Expert knowledge of SQL Server or similar tools for reporting and data access with an emphasis on ETL and SQL Server Reporting Services.
• Hands-on ERP system administration experience.
• Ability to troubleshoot hardware/software issues across both office and production environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a manufacturing and distribution environment.
• Strong understanding of application development or scripting in Microsoft environments (e.g., .NET, Power Platform, VBA).
• Experience with disaster recovery planning, virtualization, and cloud migration strategies.
  
  

Soft Skills & Leadership Attributes

• Strong ownership/entrepreneurial mentality with a service-oriented mindset.
• Ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
• Calm under pressure, with strong problem-solving and prioritization skills.
• Forward-thinking, practical approach to balancing stability with innovation.
  
  

Success Indicators

• Stable, secure, and efficient network and infrastructure performance
• ERP reliability and strong user satisfaction
• Improved reporting automation and data visibility
• Measurable progress on long-term technology improvements
• Clear communication and strong partnership with the leadership team

Compensation:

• This is an exempt position, with a salary range of $125,000- $175,000, based on experience.

Benefits:

• Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, LifeLock)
• 401(k) Employer Match - 50% of your first 6%
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays

Employee Perks:

• Meat Purchase Program
• On-site fitness center
• Bright Start 529 College Savings Plan

We follow and are guided by our mission and we demonstrate our values every day!

"To be the preferred supplier of our customers, the preferred customer of our strategic suppliers, and a model employer in our industry."

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.