Head of IT

SUMMARY:
Job Title: Head of IT
Department: Information Technology
Reports To: Chief Information Officer (CIO) / Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Job Purpose:

POSITION INFO:

Key Responsibilities:

1. IT Strategy and Leadership
   
   • Develop and implement the IT strategy in alignment with the company’s business goals and objectives.
   • Lead and manage the IT department, ensuring a high level of service delivery, efficiency, and reliability.
   • Ensure the IT infrastructure supports business operations, scaling with organizational growth while optimizing costs and performance.
   • Provide leadership and mentoring to the IT team, ensuring continuous development and performance improvement.
2. Infrastructure Management
   
   • Oversee the design, implementation, and management of IT infrastructure, including networks, servers, databases, cloud systems, and hardware.
   • Ensure the stability, performance, and security of all IT systems, applications, and networks.
   • Monitor system performance, implement enhancements, and resolve issues to maintain optimal uptime and reliability.
   • Manage the lifecycle of hardware and software systems, ensuring proper maintenance and upgrades.
3. Cybersecurity and Data Protection
   
   • Collaborate with the IT security team to develop and enforce cybersecurity policies and procedures.
   • Ensure compliance with data protection laws and industry standards regarding data privacy and security (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).
   • Manage data backup and disaster recovery strategies to ensure business continuity.
   • Address any cybersecurity threats or incidents promptly, working to mitigate risks and protect company assets.
4. Project Management and IT Operations
   
   • Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of IT projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and on budget.
   • Work closely with other departments to understand technology needs, ensuring the IT department delivers solutions that support operational and business goals.
   • Ensure efficient IT operations, including managing helpdesk services, end-user support, and software deployment.
   • Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for the IT department to ensure continuous improvement in service delivery.
5. Vendor Management and Budgeting
   
   • Manage relationships with external IT vendors, contractors, and service providers to ensure services meet organizational needs and performance standards.
   • Oversee the procurement of IT hardware, software, and services, ensuring the cost-effectiveness of purchases.
   • Develop and manage the IT department budget, ensuring expenditures are aligned with organizational priorities and financial constraints.
   • Negotiate contracts and service level agreements (SLAs) with third-party vendors and ensure compliance with agreed terms.
6. Team Development and Collaboration
   
   • Build and develop a high-performance IT team, providing coaching, guidance, and development opportunities.
   • Foster a collaborative and innovative team environment, encouraging knowledge sharing and problem-solving.
   • Work closely with other departmental heads to understand their IT needs and collaborate on cross-functional projects.
   • Promote IT best practices and standards across the organization, ensuring that employees understand and adhere to IT protocols.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Successful delivery of IT projects on time and within budget.
• High system uptime and minimal disruption to business operations.
• Efficient handling of IT support requests and resolution times.
• Successful implementation of cybersecurity measures and risk mitigation.
• Effective vendor management, with adherence to service level agreements (SLAs) and cost control.
• Positive feedback from business stakeholders on IT service quality and support.
• Successful management of the IT budget and cost optimization.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Industry certifications such as ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect, or other relevant IT certifications are a plus.

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in IT, with at least 3 years in a managerial or leadership position.
• Proven experience in managing IT infrastructure, systems, and services for a medium to large organization.
• Strong experience in leading IT teams, managing IT projects, and driving technology initiatives.
• Experience with cybersecurity best practices, data protection regulations, and business continuity planning.
• Solid understanding of IT budgeting, vendor management, and procurement processes.
• Familiarity with cloud technologies, enterprise software, and digital transformation initiatives.

Skills and Competencies:

• Leadership: Strong leadership skills, with the ability to lead, mentor, and motivate a diverse IT team.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align IT strategy with business goals and identify opportunities for technology to improve business performance.
• Problem Solving: Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with the ability to address complex IT issues and drive resolution.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Project Management: Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring they are delivered on time and within scope.
• Vendor Management: Proven ability to manage vendor relationships, contracts, and service level agreements (SLAs).
• Business Acumen: Understanding of business operations and how IT can drive efficiency, productivity, and growth.