Chief Technology Officer

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Location: Canadian Law Firm (Hybrid/Remote)Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Technology LeadershipDevelop and execute the organization's technology strategy aligned with business objectives.Drive digital transformation initiatives across legal service delivery and internal operations.Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on emerging technologies and innovation opportunities.Evaluate and implement legal technology solutions that improve efficiency, service quality, and client satisfaction.Build a technology roadmap supporting future growth and scalability.Legal Technology & InnovationLead the adoption and optimization of legal technology platforms.Evaluate AI-powered legal tools, document automation solutions, eDiscovery platforms, contract lifecycle management systems, and knowledge management technologies.Partner with legal professionals to identify opportunities for process automation.Drive innovation initiatives that enhance legal service delivery and operational efficiency.Monitor industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging legal technologies.Cybersecurity & Risk ManagementEstablish enterprise cybersecurity strategies and governance frameworks.Ensure compliance with Canadian privacy regulations and data protection requirements.Develop disaster recovery and business continuity plans.Oversee vulnerability management, risk assessments, and incident response programs.Implement security controls to protect client and company confidential information.Technology OperationsLead IT infrastructure, cloud platforms, networking, and enterprise systems.Ensure high system availability, performance, and reliability.Oversee vendor management, software procurement, and technology contracts.Manage technology budgets and optimize technology investments.Establish service delivery standards and performance metrics.Data & AnalyticsDevelop enterprise data governance and management frameworks.Implement reporting and analytics capabilities to support business decisions.Leverage data insights to improve operational effectiveness and client outcomes.Ensure compliance with data retention and privacy requirements.Team LeadershipBuild, mentor, and lead high-performing technology teams.Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.Establish succession planning and talent development initiatives.Manage performance, professional development, and workforce planning.Client & Stakeholder EngagementCollaborate with clients to understand technology needs and strategic objectives.Support business development and client presentations involving technology solutions.Act as a technology ambassador for LOD Canada.Represent the organization at industry events, conferences, and client meetings.Required QualificationsEducationBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field.Master's degree (MBA, Technology Management, Information Systems, or related discipline) preferred.ExperienceMinimum 15+ years of progressive technology leadership experience.Minimum 7+ years in a senior executive technology role (CTO, CIO, VP Technology, VP Engineering, or equivalent).Required: Prior experience working within a law firm, legal services organization, ALSP or legal technology provider.Demonstrated experience leading enterprise digital transformation initiatives.Experience managing technology budgets exceeding CAD $5M.Proven success implementing cloud, cybersecurity, AI, and enterprise technology programs.Technical ExpertiseStrong knowledge of:Cloud platforms (Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud)Microsoft 365 ecosystemCybersecurity frameworks and governanceEnterprise architectureAI and Generative AI technologiesLegal technology platformsDocument management systemsContract lifecycle management solutionseDiscovery technologiesData governance and analyticsSoftware development lifecycle (SDLC)ITIL and technology service managementPreferred QualificationsExperience supporting legal professionals and legal operations teams.Knowledge of Canadian legal industry requirements and regulations.Experience with legal practice management systems.Experience implementing AI solutions within legal workflows.Familiarity with regulatory compliance frameworks.Previous leadership experience in a multi-office or global organization.Key CompetenciesLeadershipExecutive presenceStrategic thinkingChange leadershipDecision makingRelationship managementBusiness AcumenCommercial mindsetFinancial managementOperational excellenceClient-centric thinkingPersonal AttributesInnovative and forward-thinkingCollaborative leadership styleStrong ethical standardsExceptional communication skillsResults-oriented mindset