Group IT Manager

Chill Factory; Hemel Hempstead, Greater Manchester; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Chill Factory is seeking a Group IT Manager to oversee IT operations across multiple sites. This role involves driving projects, optimizing systems, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, all within a dynamic environment that values innovation in technology. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree and leadership skills.

Benefits

Free skiing and snowboarding

Discounted food and drinks

Access to employee assistance program

Discounts at national retailers

25 days of holiday plus 8 statutory bank holidays

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing IT infrastructure and services.
• Proficiency in computer networks, ideally CCNA level.
• Experience with VoIP, IP CCTV systems, and server storage.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the annual IT budget and ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Manage daily IT operations, including server hardware, software, and operating systems.
• Coordinate technology installations, upgrades, and maintenance.

Skills

Networking

Technical Expertise

Leadership Skills

Analytical Skills

Flexibility

Education

Bachelor’s degree in IT, computer science, software engineering, or a related field

Tools

Microsoft Windows Server

Exchange Online

Azure AD

VoIP (3CX)

IP CCTV systems

Job description

Are you an experienced IT professional with a passion for technology—and perhaps an interest in Snowsports?

Are you looking for a hands-on, impactful role where you can shape and drive the IT operations of a dynamic business?

We are looking for a Group IT Manager to lead our IT infrastructure across both The Snow Centre and Chill Factor e . In this exciting role, you’ll have the autonomy to innovate and implement changes that support our business and industry needs. We’re seeking a well-rounded IT expert who thrives in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to manage multiple systems and foster a proactive, team-focused approach.

This is a 6-month fixed-term contract which has the potential to be made permanent.

Location: Multi-site working between The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead, and Chill Factor e , Manchester

Purpose of the Role

As the Group IT Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the entire IT infrastructure across both sites. You’ll drive critical projects, optimise systems, and lead technological advancements, ensuring alignment with our evolving business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Budget Management: Oversee the annual IT budget and ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Daily Operations: Manage daily IT operations, including server hardware, software, and operating systems.
• System Maintenance: Coordinate technology installations, upgrades, and maintenance.
• Hardware & Software: Procure and implement new and replacement hardware and software as needed.
• System Optimisation: Test, troubleshoot, and enhance information systems for optimal performance.
• Performance Reporting: Generate performance reports for operating systems.
• Compliance: Ensure all IT activities adhere to applicable laws, codes, and regulations.
• Disaster Recovery Planning: Evaluate technology risks to develop a network disaster recovery plan and backup procedures.
• Technology Advancements: Stay current with technological trends and industry best practices.
• Be a hands-on leader, with an active presence across both locations.
• Collaborate across departments and sites to understand IT needs and proactively solve challenges.
• Actively participate in management meetings and support other departments as needed, especially during peak times.

Skills & Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in IT, computer science, software engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: Proven experience managing IT infrastructure and services with proven experience working in a customer centric environment with real-world guest interaction. Able to fully grasp the guest and operational impact and interplay with IT systems.
• Networking: Proficiency in computer networks, network administration, and installation, ideally to a CCNA level (Cisco, Meraki, Fortinet, Sophos).
• Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of computer hardware, cabling, wireless technology, and IT security.
• Software Proficiency: Expertise with Microsoft Windows Server (2012-2022), Exchange Online, Azure AD, and related Microsoft products.
• Additional Systems: Experience with VoIP (3CX), IP CCTV systems, server storage, hardware, Veeam, and Linux (Ubuntu).
• Leadership Skills: Strong management skills, highly organized, with excellent time management and multitasking abilities.
• Analytical Skills: Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Flexibility: Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• The Snow Centre and Chill Factor e operate 7 days a week, 364 days a year and the business expects a flexible approach to working regular evenings and weekends, whilst being on-hand for emergencies and on public holidays when necessary.
• Ability to split your time equally across both locations with frequent travel expected (full driving licence is advantageous).
• Expected to work from site with occasional off-site working to be approved if required.

Company Benefits

• Free skiing and snowboarding
• Discounted food and drinks
• Access to our employee assistance program (extends to family)
• Discounts at national retailers
• 25 days of holiday plus 8 statutory bank holidays