Director, User Experience

Function of the Position:

This is a professional position in Web Management and Development department responsible for overseeing the development and integration of online content and services for AIA Web properties, branding execution and implementation as it pertains to web, information architecture including AIA.org domains and external domains. The incumbent is responsible for developing and implementing the organization's Web content strategies, policies, and procedures and will help identify Web audiences and establish appropriate content and functionality to address their needs. The incumbent will also coordinate with all information resources e.g. AIA departments, components, members, and partnering organizations to ensure the AIA has a usable, high-quality, integrated, up-to-date Web presence. This position will report to the Managing Director, Web Management and Development.

Job Duties:

• Lead the Web branding execution and implementation as it pertains to web,

• Lead the information architecture and web strategy of AIA web properties.

• Develop and execute technical content plans to successfully deliver the AIA web products and initiatives to market, as well as managing, maintaining, evaluating and adapting the site(s) and all related products and initiatives over time to ensure that established benchmarks are met.

• Work closely with AIA Executive and Management staff to develop and implement organizational Web content strategies, policies and procedures.

• Work closely with human resources and supervisor to determine what internal and external resources are needed to assure the ongoing success of AIA Web sites.

• Consult on the budget for items related to content on AIA.org and external domains and
oversee expenditures within signature authority.

• Implement project planning processes for online projects.

• Lead the Web content needs of the Institute by working closely with the AIA leadership; manager, Web and new media communications (currently, Web producer); content development team, and cross-functional teams to identify and plan development of online content and functionality.

• Assure the usability and visual quality of AIA Web properties meets the defined marketing and communications standards and guidelines.

• Supervise user research and usability testing of AIA Web properties.

• Work with cross-department teams to assure consistent look and feel of third-party Web sites and secure content areas.

• Make recommendations for and coordinate implementation of information architecture.

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with all AIA teams.

• Monitor development of user communities and support networks to ensure that recent Web developments are executed successfully from a user experience perspective.

• Monitoring various Web issues that may present potential legal problems (trademark/copyright infringement, libel, controversial issues) and referring them to the General Counsel’s office.

Frequent contacts:

• AIA Managing Directors and Vice Presidents

• AIA Team Directors

• Contractors

• Information Technology Staff

• AIA Departments

• Systems Administrator

KSAs and Training and Experience:

Considerable skill in Web management and information architecture. Considerable project management skills. Ability to work collaboratively, set priorities, manage multiple projects successfully and maintain a strong attention to detail. Must have strong interpersonal skills and supervising skills. Demonstrated skill in using project management software and the ability to quickly learn and adapt to complex interrelationships within the AIA and the architectural profession.

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Business (Master’s degree preferred) and four to six years of professional experience in Web development and maintenance or online production/communications. Marketing orientation is highly desirable. Some periodic travel required.

Supervisory Requirement:

Design and development contractors and services