IT Business Operations Manager in Birmingham

Artifex Interior Systems is pleased to confirm the below opportunity within our business:

Main purpose of the job

The IT Business Operations Manager plays a critical role in running IT as a commercially focused business function. This includes oversight of IT finance operations, procurement activities (in partnership with Purchasing), software asset management and licensing administration. The role works closely with senior internal and external stakeholders and is empowered to shape commercial decisions across IT. It ensures financial discipline, compliance, and operational efficiency, while preparing and presenting analysis to drive informed decision-making. Strong communication, commercial acumen, and stakeholder engagement skills are essential.

Main missions and results

• Oversee IT budgeting, forecasting, and cost management activities.
• Act as a key advisor to senior business leaders on IT commercial matters, providing clear recommendations that balance cost, risk, and strategic value.
• Champion IT's value proposition across the organisation, articulating the impact of technology investments in clear business terms.
• Monitor financial performance and ensure alignment with organisational objectives.
• Partner with Purchasing to manage IT procurement processes.
• Negotiate and oversee vendor contracts and service agreements; collaborate with Procurement to address underperformance and escalate where needed.
• Lead commercial negotiations with key vendors, confidently challenging proposals and advocating for enhanced value, performance, and contractual protections.
• Provide thought leadership on emerging commercial risks and opportunities in IT, ensuring leadership teams are proactively informed and prepared.
• Maintain accurate records of software assets and ensure licensing compliance.
• Implement and improve processes for renewals, cost optimisation, automation, and AI-driven efficiencies.
• Prepare and present financial and operational reports for IT leadership and external stakeholders.
• Provide insights and recommendations to improve operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure adherence to IT policies, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Build strong relationships across IT, Finance, and business units to support strategic and commercial initiatives.
• Contribute to fostering a unified, collaborative, and inclusive team culture across IT.
• Potential for line management responsibilities with organisational growth, but not responsible for performance management initially.

Preferred skills and experience

• Proven experience of IT Management in an operational setting.
• Strong and demonstrable skill in communication and influencing is essential for this role.
• Strong understanding of IT financial management and cost control.
• Experience with procurement systems and vendor management tools.
• Knowledge of software asset management platforms and licensing models.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools (Power BI desirable).
• Familiarity with IT service management frameworks (e.g., ITIL).
• Understanding of compliance and risk management in IT operations.
• Strategic thinking and ability to align IT operations with business objectives.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Leadership and team collaboration skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead change at scale, championing continuous improvement, modern delivery practices, and adoption of new technologies to enhance business outcomes.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and influencing skills, including the ability to challenge constructively, manage difficult conversations, and negotiate trade offs at executive level.
• Qualifications in project/programme management and experience of working with other frameworks/methodologies such as COBIT, ITIL, Agile and TOGAF.

Note: this is not an exhaustive list. All employees are expected to show flexibility and continued self-development to meet the ever-changing needs of the business.

Artifex is an equal opportunities employer and committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce. Our aim is that our workforce will be truly representative of all sections of society and each employee feels respected and able to give their best. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination. We are committed to creating an environment in which individual differences and the contributions of all our staff are recognised.

If you’re interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV with your contact details.