Director, IT Refining
Petro Papa, Dallas, TX, United States
Job Duties
Strategic Leadership & Business Partnership
- Leads the creation of a multi‑year digital strategy and IT roadmap for the Refining function, integrating AI/ML, automation, data modernization, cybersecurity, and OT/IT convergence.
- Serves as a strategic advisor to Refining executives—helping define future capabilities, technology-enabled business models, and operational transformation opportunities.
- Ensures Refining technology plans align with corporate strategy, enterprise architecture, and enterprise digital platforms.
AI, Advanced Analytics & Automation Leadership
- Identifies, prioritizes, and implements AI and machine learning use cases, such as predictive maintenance, digital twins, real‑time optimization, anomaly detection, and generative AI for knowledge workflows.
- Leads adoption of automation technologies, including RPA, workflow automation, intelligent process automation, and process mining to streamline non‑value‑added work.
- Partners with Data Science, OT, and Engineering teams to develop and operationalize analytics solutions across the enterprise.
- Ensures AI practices follow corporate policies, data governance, and model lifecycle management.
- Establishes an Innovation Pipeline for the Refining function, including scouting emerging technologies, developing POC programs, and scaling successful solutions.
- Creates partnerships with vendors, research institutions, startups, and industry groups to bring cutting‑edge capabilities into the organization.
- Facilitates design‑thinking workshops and innovation sessions with plant leadership to identify high‑value digital opportunities.
Portfolio, Program, and Value Management
- Oversees a broad portfolio of Refining IT initiatives, ensuring execution excellence, transparent reporting, and measurable value delivery.
- Implements frameworks for value realization, KPIs, and continuous improvement for digital investments.
- Ensures sufficient resource planning, capability development, and partner management to meet demand needs.
Operational Technology (OT) & Cyber Alignment
- Works closely with OT, Cybersecurity, and Engineering to ensure secure, resilient, and modern refinery operations.
- Supports modernization of legacy systems and ensures IT/OT convergence for real‑time data, reliability, and process optimization.
Solution Delivery & Service Management
- Directs teams responsible for delivery of integrated business solutions, enhancements, and process improvements.
- Ensures service level agreements (SLAs) meet business expectations and technology platforms are reliable and scalable.
- Acts as primary liaison between Refining and IT for business capability planning, prioritization, and technology adoption.
Leadership & People Development
- Leads and mentors a team of senior managers, analysts, architects, and external partners.
- Drives a culture of innovation, digital skill-building, cross‑functional collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Promotes behavior aligned with safety, environmental stewardship, and company values.
Financial & Governance Responsibilities
- Oversees budgeting, forecasting, and financial reviews for all Refining technology initiatives.
- Prepares proposals for senior leadership on digital investments, strategic capability builds, and process improvement programs.
Special Assignments
- Performs other duties as assigned at leadership discretion.
Responsible for the direct supervision of approximately five to 10 employees and management staff and external consultants.
Experience
- 15+ years of IT or relevant business experience with deep functional expertise in Refining, EH&S, Maintenance, Operations, Procurement, and/or Turnaround.
- Demonstrated experience driving strategic decision‑making and influencing senior executives.
- Proven leadership delivering AI/ML, automation, digital transformation, or advanced analytics solutions in asset‑heavy or industrial environments.
- Experience building future‑state business capability plans and translating them into actionable technology roadmaps.
- Hands‑on experience with SAP and key refining systems (e.g., Prometheus, Enablon, Primavera, Aveva Pi, Emerson).
- Preferred Experience
- 10+ years of experience in Refining, Petrochemical, or related industrial sectors.
- Experience with RPA, process mining, data platforms, digital twins, or IT/OT integration initiatives.
- Experience leading innovation programs or emerging technology evaluations.
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Finance, Computer Science, or related field required.
- MBA or advanced technical degree preferred.
Preferred Educational Level
MBA is preferred.
Required Skills
- Strategic leadership and executive communication skills.
- Strong understanding of refinery operations, master data, and industry‑specific technologies.
- Expertise in digital transformation, AI/ML, automation, and cloud‑enabled architectures.
- Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to lead and develop senior‑level teams and manage external partners.
- Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making capabilities.
Work Conditions
- Office‑based with up to 40% travel required.
- Regular visits to refinery, warehouse, and plant environments with exposure to industrial conditions.
Benefits
- Medical Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Paid Time‑Off
- 401(k) Retirement Plan with match
- Educational Reimbursement
- Parental Bonding Time
- Employee Discounts