Interim Director of Research Computing (Enterprise Project Manager)

The Division of IT at the University of South Carolina requires an experienced interim leader to stabilise operations and drive organisational transformation across its Research Computing department. The engagement spans 9-12 months and is designed to address operational, cultural, and structural challenges ahead of a permanent Director appointment.

The Interim Director will assess current research technology infrastructure including HPC, high-speed storage, and networking, then implement governance frameworks, align budgets with institutional priorities, and rebuild team culture and accountability. The role carries full authority to make organisational decisions necessary to position the department for long-term success and ensure a smooth handover to permanent leadership.

• Lead all departmental operations, research technology infrastructure, and associated services across the division
• Supervise managers, professional staff, and student employees while setting clear performance expectations
• Direct organisational change initiatives and culture transformation efforts, removing obstacles to productivity and collaboration
• Coordinate departmental budgets and strategic resource allocation in collaboration with executive leadership
• Ensure compliance with university policies, security standards, audit requirements, and regulatory obligations
• Develop succession planning and transition documentation, including strategic priorities and lifecycle budgets, for incoming permanent leadership

• At least 8 years of experience leading organisational transformation, change management, and service delivery optimisation
• At least 8 years of experience managing large, complex technology projects
• At least 8 years of personnel management experience including coaching and performance accountability
• Completed bachelor's degree in a relevant field
• Preferred: experience with research cyberinfrastructure, HPC, high-speed storage, and networking technologies
• Preferred: ITIL certification and experience managing organisational change in a higher education environment

TALENT Software Services is a staffing and workforce solutions firm that places technology and IT professionals into interim, contract, and project-based roles across a range of industries, including higher education and the public sector.