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- Tasks: Lead the school's digital strategy and ensure smooth IT operations.
- Company: A forward-thinking secondary school in Sutton with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for continuous improvement and development.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education through technology and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Significant IT experience in schools and proven leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 49056 - 52194 £ per year.
A forward-thinking secondary school in Sutton is seeking an experienced IT Director to lead its digital strategy, infrastructure and IT services. This is a pivotal leadership role for a strategic, solutions-focused professional who can drive innovation while ensuring robust, reliable and secure IT operations across the school.
As IT Director, you'll take full ownership of the school's technology ecosystem — from long-term digital strategy to the smooth running of day-to-day IT services. Working closely with the Headteacher, SLT and School Business Manager, you'll shape the school's digital direction, support teaching and learning, and lead a dedicated IT team.
Key Responsibilities- Strategic Leadership
- Develop and deliver a long-term IT strategy aligned with whole-school priorities.
- Lead the implementation of the school's digital vision, including the transition to MS365.
- Support digital innovation in teaching and learning across departments.
- Provide expert guidance on IT development, investment and best practice.
- Technology Infrastructure & Operations
- Oversee all hardware, software, network systems and cloud services.
- Ensure classrooms are fully equipped to meet curriculum and teaching needs.
- Manage software systems, databases, telephony and endpoint devices.
- Deliver reliable, high-quality IT services across the school.
- Project Management
- Lead all IT projects from planning to delivery, ensuring timelines and budgets are met.
- Coordinate with internal stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation and minimal disruption.
- Security, Data Protection & Compliance
- Act as the school's Privacy and Compliance Officer.
- Manage GDPR processes, DPIAs and compliance procedures.
- Establish and enforce robust cybersecurity protocols to protect data and prevent threats.
- Ensure legal and responsible use of data, copyright and digital systems.
- Staff Development
- Work closely with SLT and departments to understand their technology needs and deliver effective solutions.
- Provide leadership and direction to the IT Department through regular meetings and feedback.
- Deliver in-house staff training to support digital confidence and capability.
- Support end-users with varied digital abilities, including staff and young people.
- Budget & Supplier Management
- Manage the IT budget, ensuring cost-effective use of resources.
- Oversee suppliers, service contracts and procurement to ensure value for money.
- Recommend future investments based on emerging technologies and school priorities.
- Continuous Improvement
- Stay informed on new and emerging technologies.
- Recommend improvements to enhance operational efficiency and digital learning.
- Lead digital transformation initiatives that support teaching, learning and school development.
This role may evolve in line with the needs of the school, and additional duties may be required to support its effective running.
Person Specification- Experience
- Significant IT experience within a school environment.
- Proven IT leadership experience.
- Experience managing IT teams, budgets, suppliers and service contracts.
- Experience developing and implementing IT strategy aligned to organisational goals.
- Experience supporting end-users with varied digital abilities.
- Experience managing cybersecurity risks and safeguarding-related technologies.
- Experience working within an education setting (school, MAT, college or university).
- Knowledge of education systems such as MIS, safeguarding platforms, MDM solutions, Microsoft 365/Azure AD, Google Workspace.
- Experience leading digital transformation to enhance teaching and learning.
- Knowledge & Skills
- Strong understanding of IT infrastructure: networks, servers, cloud services, identity management, endpoint management and cybersecurity.
- Excellent project-management skills with the ability to prioritise and deliver to deadlines.
- Clear understanding of safeguarding requirements relating to digital systems and online safety.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, able to explain technical concepts to non-technical users.
- Ability to analyse data to inform decision-making and improve system performance.
- Knowledge of data protection legislation (e.g., UK GDPR) and its application in schools.
- Ability to create robust IT policies, disaster recovery plans and cybersecurity frameworks.
- Aware of emerging ed-tech trends and their potential impact on teaching and learning.
- Experience managing and supporting the Microsoft product stack (Windows 11, Windows Server, Microsoft 365, Entra, Intune).
- Personal Qualities
- Strategic thinker with the ability to create a long-term vision for technology across the school.
- Strong leadership and communication skills, able to motivate and develop teams.
- Calm, solution-focused approach under pressure.
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
- Flexible, adaptable and able to respond to changing priorities.
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to build positive working relationships across the school community.
- Other Requirements
- Commitment to the school's ethos, values and educational mission.
- Willingness to work flexibly, including attending out-of-hours events or responding to emergencies when required.
- Strong hands-on technical capability to support system integration and provide high-quality support to staff and students.
- Vision and capability to drive forward the school's use of MS365.
IT Director in Sutton Coldfield employer: Calculate Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Calculate Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Director in Sutton Coldfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend local education and tech events, or even online webinars. Chat with other IT professionals and school leaders to get your name out there and learn about potential job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your past projects, especially those related to digital transformation in schools. This will give you an edge when discussing your experience during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s current IT setup and challenges. Bring ideas on how you can enhance their digital strategy and operations. This shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are keen to join us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Director in Sutton Coldfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in IT leadership and digital strategy. We want to see how your skills align with our school's vision and the specific requirements of the IT Director role.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your successes! Use specific examples of how you've driven innovation or improved IT services in previous roles. This helps us understand the impact you've made in your past positions.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This makes it easier for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Calculate Recruitment
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like MS365 and cybersecurity protocols. Brush up on your knowledge of IT infrastructure and be ready to discuss how you've implemented similar systems in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an IT Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've led teams, managed projects, and driven digital transformation in previous roles. Highlight your experience in supporting staff with varied digital abilities.
✨Align with the School's Vision
Research the school’s ethos and values. Be prepared to discuss how your long-term IT strategy can align with their educational mission. Show that you understand the importance of technology in enhancing teaching and learning.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about real-life scenarios, such as managing a cybersecurity threat or implementing a new software system. Think through your approach to these challenges and be ready to explain your thought process clearly and confidently.