IT Director of Applications

We are a Firm where people truly believe in what they do and strive to achieve the highest standards of performance and success.

This position is based in the Firm's global operations center in Tampa, FL.

General Description:

We are seeking an IT Director of Applications to join our team. The Applications Director leads the enterprise-wide strategy, delivery, and operation of business applications across the firm. The role ensures applications are secure, scalable, and standardized, aligning with portfolio parameters, Enterprise Architecture (EA), and the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). This includes overseeing Tier 2 support, agile delivery, and innovation to meet increasing demand, including AI and automation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities and Essential Job Functions:

• Define and execute the enterprise applications strategy and roadmap, promoting standardized, package-based solutions and reducing bespoke developments.
• Align application delivery with EA, CISO, and IT governance, ensuring compliance, security, and architectural consistency.
• Own end-to-end application delivery and maintenance, including architecture, design, build, test, and implementation within portfolio constraints.
• Implement agile development methodologies to respond rapidly to business and AI-driven requirements.
• Manage day-to-day operations and Tier 3 support, ensuring service levels, performance, and continuous improvement.
• Build and lead a high-performing applications team, leveraging internal and third-party resources.
• Manage vendor relationships, budgets, and resource allocation to ensure delivery and operational excellence.
• Maintain a metrics-driven performance framework, covering delivery, resource utilization, cost, and agile velocity.
• Build trusted relationships with partners, business leaders, and functional heads, translating business needs into application solutions. Influence and communicate effectively across the firm to support adoption and change.
• Expected to maintain a regular and predictable work schedule and full attention to and engagement in work activities on behalf of the firm during business hours unless otherwise approved or required by applicable law. 
• Special projects and duties as assigned. 

Required Skills:

• Knowledge of or ability to learn Microsoft Office Suite, or Microsoft 365.
• Strong business analysis, project/portfolio management, and vendor management skills.
• Financial and commercial acumen.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills. Strategic, enterprise-focused thinker with a strong customer orientation.
• Confident in challenging assumptions and driving clarity.
• Autonomous, organized, and outcome oriented.
• Builds credibility through accountability, trust, and consistent delivery.
• Able to influence, motivate, and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Leads with positive intent and fosters a collaborative, high-performing team culture.

Required Qualifications & Education:

• Bachelor’s degree
• 8+ years of progressive experience managing and leading diverse teams and a willingness to jump in when needed.
• Extensive experience leading enterprise-wide applications portfolios in complex, regulated environments.
• Strong understanding of core business systems (practice management, finance, HR, DMS, CRM).
• Proven experience in large-scale delivery, agile transformation, and systems integration.
• Experience managing Tier 3 support, operational performance, and service delivery.
• Knowledge of security, compliance, and enterprise architecture frameworks.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• Moderate or advanced keyboard usage.

Benefits: Our goal is to promote a work environment in which individuals have access to the resources they need to be their best both professionally and personally, which includes resources that encourage individuals to focus on their health and well-being.

Below is a list of just some of the benefits we offer: comprehensive medical (PPO and HDHPs), dental and vision plans including coverage for domestic partners; life and AD&D insurance; short and long term disability insurance; tax-advantaged accounts for health care expenses, including FSAs and HSAs; FSAs for dependent care; health advocacy services; behavioral health and counseling resources for all family members; 401(k); profit sharing; pre-tax transit and parking program; backup dependent care; senior care planning support; resources for individuals with development disabilities and their caregivers; and paid holidays and other paid time off, including paid leave for new parents.

Benefits may vary by position and office.

Holland & Knight is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, transgender status, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other factor prohibited by law.

Personal Information collected from applicants will be used for the purpose of processing the application throughout any recruitment or employment process, as well as inclusion in a personnel file. Categories of data collected may include name, address, phone numbers, email, Social Security Number, and signature. Holland & Knight may collect further information if you consent to a background check. This includes criminal background, employment, and certifications. Please visit Legal Information Portal for Holland & Knight LLP’s privacy policies.