IT Manager

IT Manager, Manufacturing, ERP, Stoke to £50,000 This is a fantastic opportunity for an IT Manager to join one of the world leading leisure brands. Due to growing they are requiring an IT Manager that has expertise in managing technology infrastructure, systems administration, and team leadership. The IT Manager will have a proven track record in leading IT projects, optimising system performance and ensuring compliance with industry standards for UK and International offices. Duties: * IT Infrastructure Management Skilled in managing server environments, network configurations, cloud infrastructure and hardware/software solutions * Cybersecurity Adept at implementing security protocols, risk assessments, disaster recovery planning, and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations * Stakeholder Management Experience in liaising with and managing internal and external stakeholders as well as managing vendor relationships * Project Management Proficient in handling IT projects from inception to deployment, ensuring they are completed within scope, time, and budget constraints Experience in implementing a new MRP/ERP system * Technical Expertise Expertise in network administration, systems architecture, database management, and software deployment across multiple platforms * Global Support Work closely with other regional IT managers, employees and stakeholders to identify, recommend, develop, implement and support cost-effective technology solutions for all aspects of the global organisation * Polices & Procedures Work with the relevant global stakeholders to update and implement IT policies, procedures and guidelines * Budget & Cost Management Strong understanding of IT budgeting, cost control, and resource optimisation for technology investments and procurement * Continuous Improvement * Stay up-to-date with the latest technology trends and innovations in the industry. Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the technology team. Qualifications: * Degree in information management, business administration, industrial engineering, business informatics) or comparable education Required Experience/Skills: * 5 – 10 years experience in IT infrastructure management, systems administration, and network operations * Proven experience in managing an IT team, including mentoring and development * Project management experience, including successful planning, execution, and completion of IT projects (e.g. system upgrades, software implementations) * Proficiency in cybersecurity practices, including implementing security policies, conducting risk assessments, and managing incident response * Experience with networking technologies (firewalls, VPNs, switches, routers) and troubleshooting complex network issues * Strong knowledge of systems and database administration * Experience in developing and managing IT budgets, including cost optimisation and vendor management * Familiarity with IT service management frameworks and best practices for maintaining IT operations and service continuity * Experience in ensuring compliance with data privacy and security regulations * Demonstrated experience in disaster recovery planning and business continuity strategies * Cross-departmental collaboration and stakeholder management. Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to a non-technical audience. * Experience with cloud computing, IoT and AI/ML is a plus. * Strong analytical, conceptual and organisational skills * Negotiation skills for vendor contracts, software licensing, and service agreements Desirable skillset: * Experience in Microsoft Dynamics AX and Atlassian suite of programmes (Jira / Confluence)