We are recruiting on behalf of our client, who is seeking an experienced and proactive IT Manager to join their dynamic team. This role is key to providing leadership and ensuring the effective delivery of IT services across multiple academies. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing local IT teams, liaising between academies and the central IT team, and driving IT projects that enhance educational outcomes through the use of technology.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Management:

• Lead and manage IT service delivery at nominated academies, ensuring alignment with both academy and Trust objectives.
• Act as the primary point of contact between the academies and the central IT team, resolving complex IT issues and escalating as needed.
• Oversee the development and performance of local IT staff, providing support, training, and guidance to ensure maximum efficiency.

Service Desk & IT Support:

• Manage and monitor service desk operations to ensure timely resolution of IT issues.
• Review service desk data regularly to identify patterns and implement improvements.
• Ensure that the IT team responds to requests efficiently, intervening directly where needed.

IT Systems & Project Management:

• Oversee key IT systems and contribute to the planning, delivery, and management of IT projects within the academies.
• Ensure the effective execution of IT changes, including system updates, security patches, and infrastructure improvements.
• Manage local IT budgets, contracts, and software licenses to ensure financial efficiency.

Collaboration & Development:

• Collaborate closely with curriculum leaders and educators, providing technical guidance to enhance classroom experiences through technology.
• Work with the central IT team to ensure the ongoing support and development of Microsoft Office 365 tools (SharePoint, OneDrive, Microsoft Teams for Education).
• Foster strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external contractors to ensure IT projects are delivered successfully.

Essential Requirements:

• Strong experience in an IT support or management role, ideally within an educational environment.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Server and desktop operating systems, as well as network fundamentals (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN).
• Proven experience in managing IT projects, budgets, and service teams.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Experience in managing IT services across multiple sites.
• Familiarity with ITIL, FITS, or similar service management frameworks.
• Knowledge of Office 365 administration and familiarity with non-Windows devices (Chromebooks, iPads, etc.).

Why Join?

This is a fantastic opportunity to lead IT operations across multiple academies, playing a critical role in supporting educational excellence through technology. If you're an experienced IT professional with a passion for improving IT services and driving technological advancements in education, apply now!