Head of IT Operations
Head of IT Operations

Head of IT Operations

Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Arrows

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead IT operations and transform the internal IT function for a growing business.
  • Company: Established UK-based company with over 800 employees undergoing IT transformation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for modernisation.
  • Why this job: Take ownership of IT operations and make a real impact on the company's tech landscape.
  • Qualifications: Strong IT generalist background and experience in managing IT operations.
  • Other info: High visibility role with opportunities to innovate and improve legacy systems.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

Overview

Location: London

Working Pattern: Hybrid (office-led environment)

Team: Small internal IT function (growing)

Environment: Microsoft / Azure / 365

The Opportunity

We are working with a well-established, UK-based business (800+ employees) undergoing a major internal transformation of its IT function. Historically, IT has been fully outsourced to an MSP - but they are now bringing everything in-house. This hire will take full ownership of IT operations, leading the transition away from the MSP and building a more effective, scalable internal function. This is not greenfield - but it’s close. You’ll inherit an environment, take control of it, and shape how it evolves.

The Role

You’ll be responsible for end-to-end IT operations across the business, including:

  • Leading the handover from the MSP (running until August)
  • Owning IT infrastructure, systems, and internal support
  • Establishing a fit-for-purpose IT operating model
  • Improving reliability, processes, and internal user experience
  • Acting as the go-to person for all things IT

It’s a blend of:

  • Hands-on problem solving
  • Operational leadership
  • Light-touch strategy / future planning

You’ll work alongside a senior stakeholder handling more complex/long-term initiatives - giving you space to focus on making the day-to-day IT function actually work.

What They’re Looking For

  • Strong IT generalist background (not overly specialised)
  • Experience owning or running IT operations in an SME environment
  • Comfortable managing MSP relationships / transitions
  • Solid experience across:
  • Microsoft ecosystem (M365, Azure)
  • Devices, identity, support, infrastructure
  • Someone who can pick things up quickly and bring structure
  • Why This Role

    • High ownership, high visibility role
    • Opportunity to take control of and improve a legacy setup
    • Business investing in modernisation (incl. AI initiatives)
    • Chance to build a proper IT function without enterprise red tape

    If you enjoy stepping into environments that need structure and making them run properly, we’d love to hear from you - apply now!

    Head of IT Operations employer: Arrows

    Join a dynamic and forward-thinking company in London as the Head of IT Operations, where you will play a pivotal role in transforming the IT function from outsourced to in-house. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and a collaborative work culture, this hybrid position offers competitive benefits and the opportunity to lead significant change in a supportive environment. Embrace the chance to shape the future of IT operations while enjoying the advantages of working in a well-established organisation committed to modernisation and innovation.
    Arrows

    Contact Detail:

    Arrows Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Head of IT Operations

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the IT world, especially those who might know about the company you're eyeing. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the company's current IT setup. Understand their transition from MSP to in-house operations and think about how you can add value. Show them you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you note. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s just good manners!

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Keep an eye on our website for similar roles! We’re always updating our listings, and applying through us gives you a better chance to stand out. Let’s land that dream job together!

    We think you need these skills to ace Head of IT Operations

    IT Operations Management
    Microsoft Ecosystem (M365, Azure)
    Infrastructure Management
    User Support
    MSP Relationship Management
    Operational Leadership
    Problem-Solving Skills
    Process Improvement
    Transition Management
    Strategic Planning
    Adaptability
    Team Leadership
    Communication Skills
    Experience in SME Environment

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience with IT operations, especially in an SME environment, and showcase your familiarity with Microsoft technologies like Azure and M365.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed transitions from MSPs or improved IT functions in the past.

    Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, emphasise your hands-on problem-solving abilities. We want to see how you've tackled challenges in IT operations and what strategies you used to improve processes and user experiences.

    Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape our IT function.

    How to prepare for a job interview at Arrows

    ✨Know Your IT Operations Inside Out

    Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of IT operations, especially in a hybrid environment. Familiarise yourself with the Microsoft ecosystem, including Azure and M365, as well as the challenges of transitioning from an MSP to an in-house setup.

    ✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

    Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading IT operations and managing teams. Be ready to discuss how you've improved processes and user experiences in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your capability to take ownership of the IT function.

    ✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving Scenarios

    Expect to face hypothetical scenarios during the interview that test your problem-solving skills. Think about past challenges you've encountered and how you resolved them, particularly in an SME context, as this will show your hands-on approach.

    ✨Understand the Company’s Transformation Goals

    Research the company’s current IT transformation initiatives and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their goals. Showing that you understand their vision and can align your strategies with it will set you apart from other candidates.

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