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
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
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
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.