The Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba (WCB) invites firms to submit a Proposal for the following: The supply of one (1) full-time resource to act as the Senior IT Consultant for an initial period of twelve (12) months with an irrevocable option to extend up to two (2) additional periods of three (3) months each to provide support of in the development of the WCB's Information Technology Operating Model.
Description of Services
The WCB will require the Contractor to supply a resource (the "Senior IT Consultant") on a full-time basis [thirty-six and a quarter (36.25) hours per week] to provide their expertise and support of the WCB's transition to the target state ITOM which will include, but not be limited to, the following:
a) Recommend and execute capability improvements to address known gaps in IT maturity, increase efficiency, and set a foundation for strong implementation services:
b) Plan and implement foundational IT processes based on prioritized IT maturity gaps to better fulfill business expectations and ensure a higher level of IT efficiency;
c) Provide recommendations and transition support to WCB management on target operating model, new role definitions, organizational structure changes, communications strategy, and execution;
d) Monitor overall IT capacity utilization and execute optimization opportunities to balance "run" vs "grow" needs of the business;
e) Design and build new interaction models between IT, WCB business units, and corporate services, including a proper intake channel and service level agreements between IT and other WCB departments to improve trust and collaboration as well as align business expectations;
f) Create a robust client engagement practice as part of the transition to the new ITOM including coaching and facilitating interactions with key stakeholders across IT and the business;
g) Support internal IT capability improvements through coaching, developing, and attracting talent in alignment with short-term, mid-term, and long-term needs of the WCB;
h) Develop options and recommend improvement opportunities to increase elasticity of the IT workforce through an ecosystem of partners/external service providers;
i) Perform an assessment of the effectiveness of existing IT tools and recommend improvements to increase internal knowledge and speed up delivery;
j) Enable the adoption of cloud services including improved security controls and streamlined environment provisioning processes;
k) Identify and execute on opportunities to leverage emerging technologies (i.e. cloud computing to accelerate change and drive business outcomes);
l) Establish improved governance and oversight of the IT project portfolio, and proper balance between KTLO (Keep the Lights On) activities and project work;
m) Perform the role of program director/sponsor as required throughout the engagement;
n) Coach and mentor internal IT project delivery teams to execute at expected levels of competency as well as effectively monitor IT performance metrics against value to the enterprise; and
o) Support the Chief Technology Officer on IT operational initiatives in a senior leadership capacity, as required throughout the engagement.
The Services shall normally be performed during Business Hours. However, the WCB may request some of the Services to be performed outside Business Hours from time to time, as deemed necessary, in the unfettered discretion of the WCB. The Contractor shall not be entitled to charge overtime rates unless specified in the Fee Schedule.
The IT Senior Consultant must have experience and knowledge with the following:
a) Senior level IT executive (director or above) role in workers compensation or insurance industry responsible for critical IT operations including infrastructure, application services, and IT service management;
b) Hands on experience with ITOM patterns including design and implementation of "Pattern Three–Service Optimizing Operating Model";
c) Ability to partner with key stakeholders (i.e. human resources for labour relations in addressing the changes in roles to accommodate the new ITOM;
d) IT capability assessment and process improvement experience in a complex environment with a focus on resource capacity utilization;
e) Hybrid-cloud services enablement and operational management experience;
f) Senior IT leadership experience in the delivery of complex projects/programs including digital modernization of core systems of record;
g) Establishing and managing critical service level agreements with business stakeholders; and
h) Proven ability to coach and develop internal staff for improved performance.
The IT Senior Consultant should have experience and knowledge with the following (which may be considered an asset when evaluating Proposals):
a) Strategic vendor management experience with managed service providers including governance, RFX procurement processes, and supplier negotiations;
b) Experience with Project Management Institute (PMI®) methodology and best practices including Project Management Professional (PMP®) certification;
c) Ability to manage competing demands, multiple priorities, and changes in direction seamlessly; and
d) Excellent communication, consultation, and mediation skills to address complex and sensitive issues.
The Proposal should include an overview of the proposed resource(s) being offered, including profiles of work which highlight their experience performing similar projects. Vendors are expected to provide the following for each proposed resource:
a) Resource's name and identify any subcontractor relationship (i.e. if individual resource is not an employee of the Vendor);
b) Completed skills matrix identifying resource's skills and knowledge;
c) Ability to start on WCB's preferred start date or later date of availability; and
d) Resume of resource.
Final selection of a resource may be subject to an in-person, telephone, or video conference interview by the WCB.
The Contractor will not be required to have and maintain workers compensation coverage for its workers who will be providing the Services, unless required pursuant to The Workers Compensation Act.
The Services can be provided remotely, however a minimum of thirty percent (30%) of the time is required onsite at the WCB's facilities located at 333/363 Broadway in Winnipeg, Manitoba, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
It is expected the Services will be required for an initial period of twelve (12) months with a preferred start date of May 15, 2023. The WCB shall have an irrevocable option to further extend the Services on the same terms and conditions and fees for two (2) additional periods of up to three (3) months each.
