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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT operations, manage a team, and oversee tech projects for growth.
- Company: Join a dynamic company focused on innovation and technology in retail.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work, and additional perks like a company car.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of digital transformation and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in multi-site IT management and complex project delivery is essential.
- Other info: Ideal for those who thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 68000 - 85000 £ per year.
The Head of IT will be accountable for managing day-to-day IT operations, leading a small internal team, coordinating third-party providers, and ensuring the successful delivery of a broad portfolio of technology projects. The successful candidate will balance hands-on delivery oversight with commercial and strategic thinking — ensuring the IT function supports current operations while also enabling future growth, automation, and digital capability.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational IT Management
- Maintain a stable and responsive 24/7 IT environment across multiple sites and systems
- Coordinate day-to-day support activity, including escalation paths for retail, warehouse, and back-office functions
- Manage and review third-party MSPs and vendors to ensure service quality and contractual performance
- Own internal IT procedures, documentation, asset management, and first-line support structure
- Budgeting, Forecasting & Performance Management
- Oversee delivery of key IT projects including; Cloud migration of WMS (Proteus), SAP CCO rollout to Pets and Friends, Power BI implementation, eCommerce platform consolidation, Retail and infrastructure upgrades (e.g. phones, networking)
- Lead IT input into new site openings, system transitions, and operational automation initiatives
- Work with the Finance Director and external advisors to maintain a prioritised roadmap of IT change
- Strategy and Planning
- Define and communicate the future structure and direction of the IT function
- Plan IT resourcing to support growth, including internal and external roles (e.g. SAP, BI, infrastructure)
- Identify opportunities for automation and improved integration between systems
- Maintain a view of the IT landscape including system interdependencies, integrations, and risks
- Security and Resilience
- Ensure cyber risk, data protection, and disaster recovery protocols are in place and maintained
- Oversee business continuity planning for IT systems and infrastructure
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and internal governance standards
Person Specification
- Experience leading IT in a multi-site environment (retail, distribution, or wholesale preferred)
- Strong track record of vendor and MSP management
- Experience delivering complex IT projects, ideally involving cloud transitions, eCommerce, EPOS, or ERP systems
- Familiar with SAP Business One, retail integrations, and WMS systems
- Comfortable working in a hands-on IT team
- Able to work cross-functionally and communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Pragmatic, structured, and delivery-focused
Head of Information Technology employer: Xpertise Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Xpertise Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Information Technology
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the IT sector, especially those who have experience in multi-site environments. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in IT management.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as SAP Business One and cloud migration strategies. This will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences managing vendor relationships and complex IT projects. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your ability to deliver results and manage cross-functional teams effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter’s current IT initiatives and challenges. Tailoring your conversation to show how your skills can directly address these areas will make you a more attractive candidate during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Information Technology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in IT management, particularly in multi-site environments. Emphasise your track record with vendor and MSP management, as well as any complex IT projects you've delivered.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, demonstrate your understanding of the company's needs and how your skills align with the role. Mention specific projects or experiences that showcase your ability to manage IT operations and lead teams effectively.
Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly outline your technical skills related to cloud transitions, eCommerce platforms, and ERP systems like SAP Business One. This will show that you have the necessary expertise to handle the responsibilities of the Head of IT.
Showcase Leadership Experience: Provide examples of your leadership experience, especially in managing teams and coordinating with third-party providers. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
How to prepare for a job interview at Xpertise Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As the Head of IT, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've managed teams in multi-site environments, focusing on your leadership style and how you motivate others.
✨Highlight Project Management Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with complex IT projects, especially those involving cloud transitions or eCommerce platforms. Use specific examples to illustrate your role in these projects and the outcomes achieved.
✨Understand Vendor Management
Since vendor and MSP management is crucial for this role, come prepared to talk about your experiences in managing third-party providers. Discuss how you've ensured service quality and contractual performance in previous roles.
✨Communicate Cross-Functionally
This position requires effective communication with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Practice explaining complex IT concepts in simple terms, and be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated across departments.
