IT Manager

Ashdown Group; Kettering; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established organisation in Kettering is seeking an IT Manager to oversee all technology operations. This full-time, site-based role requires strong expertise in VMware, Microsoft Servers, and networking. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in IT management, ideally within a manufacturing or logistics environment. The salary ranges from £55,000 to £65,000 per annum, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in IT Manager or similar roles in manufacturing or logistics.
• Strong technical expertise with VMware/ESXi and Microsoft Servers.
• Experience with SQL databases and generating reports.
• Understanding of IT security frameworks and GDPR compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and maintain all operational and business IT systems.
• Administer VMware/ESXi and Microsoft servers.
• Manage network infrastructure, including Fortinet and Cisco devices.
• Oversee the Microsoft 365 suite and develop SQL databases.
• Lead cybersecurity and compliance initiatives.

Skills

VMware/ESXi

Microsoft Servers

Microsoft 365

Fortinet networking

Cisco networking

SQL databases

IT security frameworks

GDPR compliance

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Tools

Power BI

Job description

A well-established organisation based in near Corby in Northamptonshire is looking for an IT Manager to join the team on a full-time, permanent basis. Please note – this is a fully site-based role.

This is a hands‑on position suited to an experienced IT professional who will be responsible for overseeing and supporting all technology operations, maintaining and optimising the organisation’s core business systems to ensure reliability, performance, and data integrity.

As the IT Manager, you will play a key role in ensuring system uptime and efficiency across all departments. You will lead a small IT team, manage external vendors, and act as the main technical point of contact for infrastructure, security, and continuous improvement projects.

Key responsibilities as the IT Systems Lead will include:

• Overseeing and maintaining all operational and business IT systems to ensure stability, availability, and performance
• Administering and supporting VMware/ESXi and Microsoft on‑premises servers, ensuring a resilient and secure environment
• Managing network infrastructure, including Fortinet and Cisco devices, Wi‑Fi, and site connectivity
• Overseeing the Microsoft 365 suite (Exchange, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, Azure AD)
• Developing and maintaining SQL databases and business reports to support decision‑making
• Leading cybersecurity and compliance initiatives aligned to ISO27001, Cyber Essentials, and GDPR
• Managing data backups, disaster recovery testing, and IT documentation
• Providing hands‑on technical support and guidance to users across the business
• Leading, mentoring, and developing a small IT team, and managing third‑party IT suppliers

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience in a similar IT Systems Lead, IT Systems Engineer, IT Manager, Senior Systems Engineer role, ideally within a manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, or production‑focused environment.
• Strong technical expertise with VMware/ESXi, Microsoft Servers, Microsoft 365, and Fortinet/Cisco networking infrastructure
• Experience working with SQL databases and generating reports using relevant tools
• A sound understanding of IT security frameworks, GDPR, and audit compliance
• Excellent problem‑solving skills with a proactive, hands‑on approach
• Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams
• A self‑motivated, organised, and business‑focused mindset, with the ability to deliver technology solutions that improve operational efficiency

Experience with data visualisation tools such as Power BI or automation platforms would be advantageous.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a technically skilled and business-focused IT professional to take ownership of a broad and critical IT environment within a successful and growing organisation.
The salary on offer is £55,000 - £65,000 per annum dependent on experience.