Senior Director, IT Operations and Cybersecurity

At Alto, we are actively contributing to the transformation of Canada's future with our high-speed train project connecting Quebec City and Toronto. With the support of the Government of Canada, this innovative project aims to improve the quality of life of our citizens, strengthen ties between communities and stimulate economic growth.

Would you like to take on a stimulating, high-impact challenge? We are looking for a Senior Director, IT Operations and Cybersecurity.

Please note that the candidate may be based in one of our 4 offices: Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto or Ottawa.

The role :

Reporting to the Vice President of Information Technology, the incumbent will lead the strategy, delivery and continuous improvement of Alto’s IT operations and cybersecurity. As a member of the IT Leadership Team, the incumbent will ensure secure, reliable and scalable technology services that support Alto’s corporate priorities and project delivery.

This role works closely with internal teams and Alto’s private development partner, Cadence, to strengthen operational resilience, manage cyber risk and deliver value through effective technology investments and partnerships.

The responsibilities :

• Provide leadership and direction: Translate Alto’s IT strategy into actionable IT operations and cybersecurity roadmaps, governance and delivery priorities; advise senior leadership on performance, risks and investments.
• Deliver reliable technology services: Oversee infrastructure, cloud, networks, workplace technology and user support, supported by effective service management and continuous improvement.
• Lead cybersecurity: In close collaboration with the Director, Cybersecurity, oversee the enterprise cybersecurity program, including risk management, prevention, detection, response and awareness; maintain controls aligned with applicable legal, regulatory and contractual obligations.
• Strengthen resilience: Oversee business continuity, disaster recovery and operational readiness; lead major technology and cyber incident response, recovery and remediation.
• Align partners and delivery: Collaborate with Cadence, project teams and corporate functions to integrate operational, security and privacy requirements into technology solutions, procurement and service transitions.
• Manage resources and value: Oversee budgets, investment plans, sourcing and vendor performance, balancing cost, service quality and risk.
• Build and empower the team: Develop an inclusive, high-performing team and foster accountability, collaboration and sound judgment.

The requirements :

• A university degree in a relevant discipline, or an equivalent combination of education, professional development and significant relevant executive experience.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive IT experience, including 10+ years at the director level or equivalent, leading multidisciplinary teams and complex portfolios spanning IT operations and cybersecurity.
• Demonstrated expertise in enterprise technology services, cyber risk, incident response and operational resilience, including transformation and service delivery in multi-partner environments.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen, including budget oversight, procurement, contract negotiations and vendor management.
• The ability to translate complex technology and risk issues into clear executive advice, influence diverse stakeholders and lead teams through change.
• Experience in Canadian public-sector or comparably governed and regulated organizations is strongly preferred.
• Relevant professional certifications are also strongly preferred; experience in critical infrastructure or related sectors is considered a strong assets.

Additional considerations :

• The incumbent must be able to obtain and maintain the security clearance.
• The role requires availability to lead during major incidents outside regular business hours and travel as required.
• Professional proficiency in English and French is strongly preferred.

Why join our innovative team?

• Basic paid group insurance for you and your family: medical, dental, life, disability, etc.
• Access to wellness and health accounts to support your lifestyle.
• Flex-Alto account of $500 to encourage a healthier approach and a more sustainable mode of transportation.
• A retirement plan and savings options (RRSP and TFSA).
• Vacations based on experience, available upon hiring.
• An incentive compensation program.
• Flexible hybrid work mode.
• A work environment that encourages initiative, innovation, and forward-thinking solutions.
• A unique opportunity to shape the future of transportation in Canada.

We work to create high-performance, diversified teams

At Alto, we believe in the power of diverse teams. We aspire to provide an inclusive and equitable work environment where everyone can develop and flourish. Alto offers equal employment opportunities to all and invites qualified individuals, regardless of their identity, origin or situation, to apply.

Please let us know if you need any adjustments during the recruitment process. We will do our utmost to provide you with a fair and pleasant experience, while keeping any adjustments confidential.

Please note that we will communicate only with those candidates whose applications are selected for further consideration.

To find out more about the entire project, visit Alto - Home.