IT Operations Manager

JR United Kingdom; Slough; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organisation in the education and creative sectors is seeking a highly motivated IT Operations Manager. This role is pivotal to delivering secure IT operations across a diverse user base, overseeing support services and infrastructure while driving continuous improvement in tech services.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading IT operations in an ITIL structured environment.
• Strong technical skills in Microsoft technologies and cloud systems.
• Experience in vendor management and contract negotiation.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of IT professionals delivering support and project implementation.
• Oversee ICT service desk and manage incidents and resolutions.
• Ensure security and resilience of ICT systems.

Skills

ITIL

Team Management

Cyber Security

Stakeholder Engagement

Budget Control

Education

Degree in relevant discipline

Tools

Microsoft Windows Server

Office 365

Azure

SQL Server

Networking technologies

Job description

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A leading organisation in the education and creative sectors is seeking a highly motivated IT Operations Manager to lead its technology infrastructure, support services, and cyber resilience programmes. You’ll play a pivotal role in delivering robust, secure, and modern IT operations across a diverse user base.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of six IT professionals delivering support, systems administration, and project implementation.
• Oversee ICT service desk operations, managing incidents, service requests, problem resolution, and change control.
• Ensure the security and resilience of ICT systems, including cyber training, compliance, and disaster recovery readiness.
• Administer core infrastructure, including Windows servers, desktop environments, cloud systems, and storage.
• Manage software and hardware lifecycles, including upgrades, patching, and vendor contracts (e.g., Microsoft 365, Azure AD).
• Maintain IT policies, ensuring alignment with data protection, licensing, and security legislation.
• Produce monthly KPI reports on helpdesk activity, cyber compliance, infrastructure health, and training participation.
• Manage operational budgets and supplier relationships.
• Collaborate with other IT and digital services leaders to support strategic initiatives.

Essential Experience & Skills:

• Proven experience managing IT operations teams in a structured ITIL or service-led environment.
• Strong technical background in:
• Microsoft Windows Server & Desktop
• Office 365 administration
• Active Directory / Group Policy
• Cloud technologies (e.g., Azure)
• Network management and security
• SQL Server administration
• Experience of contract negotiation, vendor management, and budget control.
• Strong understanding of cyber security best practices.
• Ability to manage competing priorities, delegate effectively, and drive continuous service improvement.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Desirable Technical Skills:

• Microsoft or Cisco certifications (e.g., MCSE, CCNA)
• Knowledge of VOIP systems (e.g., Mitel)
• Microsoft Hyper-V, SCCM, PowerShell scripting
• Experience with endpoint protection (e.g., McAfee EPO)
• Exposure to tools like PaperCut, Asimut, and call-logging systems

Ideal Candidate Will Also Have:

• A degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent professional experience.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and the ability to thrive in a dynamic environment.
• An appreciation for creativity and education as core elements of the organisational culture.
• A personal commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.