Head of IT.

Head of IT
London - Hybrid

FTC to Perm

About the Organisation

The organisation is a growing, international business operating across multiple global locations. It is committed to leveraging technology to drive efficiency, innovation, and business growth.

Role Overview

The Head of IT is responsible for leading the organisation's entire IT function, encompassing strategy, infrastructure, service delivery, cybersecurity, supplier management, and digital transformation. This individual will guide the IT team, champion innovation, and ensure technology effectively supports both current operations and long-term growth. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on operational oversight, placing strong emphasis on efficiency, user experience, security, and alignment with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement an IT strategy aligned with organisational goals.
• Ensure IT initiatives support business priorities, scalability, and adaptability.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and user experience.
• Develop a long-term technology roadmap that supports growth and innovation.
• Deliver and oversee a long-term IT security programme, including progress toward ISO 27001 accreditation.

IT Operations & Infrastructure

• Oversee the delivery of reliable, secure, and high-performing IT systems.
• Ensure the smooth operation of networks, servers, infrastructure, and enterprise applications.
• Manage relationships with IT suppliers, vendors, and partners, including contract negotiations and performance oversight.
• Lead cloud technology adoption and ensure cost-effective use of cloud resources.
• Continuously evaluate and enhance IT processes, workflows, and systems.
• Partner with global IT service providers to ensure consistent standards across international offices.

Cybersecurity & Risk Management

• Collaborate with an outsourced Security Operations Centre to enforce IT security policies and standards.
• Monitor and mitigate cybersecurity threats while ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Manage disaster recovery and business continuity frameworks.
• Conduct periodic security audits, penetration tests, and vulnerability assessments.

Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing IT team.
• Recruit and retain IT talent to meet evolving business needs.
• Manage team budgets, resources, and workload prioritisation.
• Ensure the team delivers excellent support across all locations.

Supplier Management

• Source, manage, and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers across hardware, software, cloud services, AI platforms, digital services, licensing, and communications technologies.

Service Delivery & Support

• Oversee IT support operations and maintain high user satisfaction levels.
• Implement and manage SLAs for support and incident resolution.
• Drive continuous improvement in support processes, tools, and automation, including RPA or AI-enabled automation.

Change & Project Management

• Lead IT projects, ensuring delivery on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Work closely with stakeholders to understand business requirements and deliver appropriate solutions.
• Manage change effectively to minimise disruption during system or technology rollouts.

Budget Management

• Create and manage the IT budget, ensuring cost efficiency and value for investment.
• Drive cost-saving initiatives without compromising service quality.
• Provide regular reporting to senior leadership on performance, risks, and opportunities.

Key Requirements

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience as a Head of IT, IT Director, or similar senior IT leadership role.
• Strong background in developing and executing IT strategies aligned with business needs.
• Experience managing IT infrastructure, cloud environments, and cybersecurity operations.
• Hands-on experience with digital transformation, including modernising legacy systems.
• Solid understanding of IT governance, GDPR considerations, compliance, and risk management.
• Demonstrated experience leading and developing IT teams.
• Strong financial acumen in IT budgeting and cost optimisation.
• Ability to manage and deliver multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of networking, server environments, cloud services (Azure/AWS), and ITIL practices.
• Competence in cybersecurity tools, frameworks, and standards (ISO 27001 beneficial).
• Familiarity with enterprise technologies such as ERP, CRM, and productivity platforms (e.g., Microsoft 365).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in IT, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Relevant certifications such as ITIL, CISSP, CISM, Prince2, or PMP are advantageous.