Head of IT

Reports To : Chief Information Officer (CIO) / Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Job Purpose :

The Head of IT is responsible for overseeing the organization's information technology systems, infrastructure, and operations. This role will lead the IT team, manage IT projects, and ensure the alignment of IT services with business needs. The Head of IT will play a key role in ensuring the stability, scalability, and security of the organization's technology environment, supporting the company’s strategic objectives through effective use of technology.

Key Responsibilities :

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 :

Education and Certification :

• 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.

Experience :

• 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.