Director of Research and Operations IT

Dixon Walter; Liverpool; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A major educational institution in Liverpool is seeking a Director of Research & Operations IT to lead digital transformation and manage IT infrastructure supporting over 37,000 users. The successful candidate will have significant experience in enterprise-scale IT operations, ensuring secure and scalable services that foster collaboration across teams. Strong leadership and emotional intelligence are critical for this role. Applications close on 15th February 2026.

Qualifications

• Significant experience leading enterprise-scale IT operations in complex settings.
• Proven track record in delivering resilient and scalable infrastructure services.
• Values-led IT professional with transformation experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic development and operational delivery of IT infrastructure.
• Establish and oversee standards for operational IT services.
• Ensure resilient, scalable, and secure foundations for digital innovation.

Skills

Leadership in IT operations

Cyber Security expertise

Infrastructure Services management

Collaboration skills

Emotional intelligence

Job description

Overview

The University of Liverpool is a globally recognised Russell Group institution, committed to transforming lives through world‑class education, research, and innovation.

As they approach their 150th anniversary, their Liverpool 2031 strategic framework sets out an ambitious vision to be a connected, global university at the forefront of knowledge leadership.

Digital transformation is central to this vision. The University’s Digital Strategy underpins their strategic goals by embedding digital technologies across research, education, and operations, aiming to create a seamless, secure, and future‑ready digital environment that enhances student outcomes, research excellence, and operational agility.

Role Summary

The Director of Research & Operations IT will play a pivotal role in delivering this transformation. Reporting to the Group Director IT and Digital, the postholder will lead the strategic development, security and operational delivery of the University’s core IT infrastructure, supporting 7k staff and over 30k students. Additionally, the Director will establish and oversee standards for partners delivering operational IT services across the international campuses.

The Director has responsibility for the full range of Infrastructure Services, Cyber Security, Research Computing, Service Management and Customer Services, ensuring resilient, scalable and secure foundations for digital innovation. The role demands visionary leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to foster collaboration across academic and professional services for an organisation with global impact.

Requirements

With significant experience in leading enterprise‑scale IT operations within a complex, multi‑disciplinary organisational setting, you should have a proven track record of delivering resilient and scalable infrastructure services that support digital transformation. Equally importantly, you should be an IT professional who is values‑led, blending authentic, emotionally intelligent leadership with technical expertise, and who has delivered transformation.

Application Process

To find out more and have an informal conversation please contact Mike Dixon at [e-mail] or on 0787 6751896.

• a letter of application setting out your interest in the role and details of how you match the person specification
• a comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV)
• details of three referees and notice period (referees will not be contacted without your permission)
• a completed Personal Details Form (available above)

The closing date for applications is Sunday 15th February 2026.

Final stage selection will be held on campus week commencing 23rd March 2026.

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