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Strategic IT Planning Consultant for MSP, 5+ years experience

Data Networks, Inc.

Full-time

Hunt Valley, MD

Job description

Company Overview

Data Networks has been a pioneer in simplifying enterprise IT since 1983. Based in Hunt Valley, Maryland, we are a leading provider of IT solutions dedicated to serving the Education sector (K-12 and Higher Education), State and Local Government, Healthcare, and Commercial clients. Our commitment to delivering comprehensive solutions ensures that our customers receive the best products and professional services available.

Summary

As a Strategic IT Consultant, you will serve as a trusted advisor to our MSP clients, conducting regular strategic meetings to align IT initiatives with business goals. Drawing on your expertise in business strategy and technology, you will assess current environments, identify gaps, and guide clients in making proactive, value-driven decisions. This role is essential to delivering strategic outcomes, fostering long-term client relationships, and ensuring ongoing technology alignment. Your insights will drive roadmaps that reduce risk, increase efficiency, and support sustainable growth for our managed services clients.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct quarterly Strategic Business Reviews (SBRs) with clients to assess IT alignment with business objectives.
  • Develop and maintain strategic IT roadmaps, budgets, and lifecycle plans aligned to each client’s goals, partnering with the Technology Alignment Engineer to identify and elevate high-priority findings into actionable strategic initiatives.
  • Evaluate existing technology infrastructure, recommend improvements, and help clients prioritize initiatives based on risk, efficiency, and ROI.
  • Translate complex IT concepts into clear, actionable business language for decision-makers.
  • Act as a liaison between technical teams and client executives, ensuring cohesive and goal-aligned communication.
  • Collaborate with internal service delivery teams to ensure solutions are well-executed and meet strategic intent.
  • Track and report on client health, satisfaction, and engagement in CRM and planning platforms.
  • Stay up to date on industry trends and technology shifts to provide forward-looking guidance; participate as attendee and/or presenter in industry forums, tradeshows, and seminars as appropriate.
  • Maintain up-to-date certifications in appropriate technologies.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Required

  • 5+ years of progressive IT experience, with at least 2-3 years in a strategic consulting, vCIO, IT management, or similar client advisory role, preferably within an MSP environment.
  • Strong business acumen with the ability to understand client industries, priorities, and KPIs.
  • High-level understanding of IT infrastructure, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, and managed services.
  • Experience in a strategic role such as vCIO, Director of IT, or IT Business Consultant within an MSP or similar environment.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to lead C-Suite conversations and build executive trust.
  • Proven track record of influencing IT investment decisions and driving long-term strategy.
  • Strong organizational and planning skills with the ability to manage multiple client engagements.
  • Familiarity with the TruMethods framework and its core principles (Technology Alignment Process, Strategy, and Business Impact).
  • Proficiency in productivity and CRM tools (e.g. Microsoft 365, Teams, Planner, HubSpot/Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, Sales, and Project Operations.

Preferred

  • Previous experience using tools like myITprocess, vCIOToolbox, and/or other similar tools.
  • Experience working with clients in compliance-heavy industries (e.g. healthcare, state/local government, education).
  • Certifications such as ITIL, CISSP, PMP, or relevant technical/business certifications.
  • Background in budgeting, forecasting, or financial analysis as it relates to IT spend.
  • Familiarity with MSP-specific platforms like Autotask PSA, Autotask RMM, IT Glue, Datto BCDR, Liongard, and other similar tools.

Compensation

We offer a competitive compensation plan and a comprehensive benefit plan including generous time off, medical, dental, vision, flexible spending or HSA, life insurance, 401k, employee assistance program, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and opportunity for remote and hybrid work for eligible positions.

Candidates must be able to provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Data Networks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $105,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

Experience:

  • progressive IT: 5 years (Required)
  • IT management: 2 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

  • Hunt Valley, MD 21031 (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Hunt Valley, MD 21031