Head of IT in Altrincham

An exciting opportunity to take ownership of a multi-site organisation's technology function. Offering genuine autonomy to shape IT strategy, modernise infrastructure, improve business systems and support future e-commerce growth. Ideally suited to someone from an e-commerce, retail or product-led background, with broad Windows, Microsoft 365, ERP and infrastructure experience.

An established and growing multi-site organisation is looking to appoint a Head of IT to take ownership of its technology function and lead an exciting period of modernisation and development. This is a fantastic opportunity for an IT leader who wants more than simply maintaining an existing environment. You'll have the autonomy to shape the IT strategy, modernise infrastructure, improve business systems and develop the function in a way that supports the organisation's future ambitions.

Working closely with senior stakeholders and teams across multiple departments and locations, you'll have the opportunity to influence how technology is used throughout the business. From improving infrastructure and introducing more effective systems and processes to supporting future e-commerce ambitions, there's plenty of scope to make your mark.

The role will involve:

• Taking ownership of the IT strategy and developing a technology roadmap aligned with wider business objectives.
• Reviewing and modernising the existing IT environment, identifying opportunities to improve infrastructure and connectivity across multiple sites.
• Developing the Microsoft 365 environment, including SharePoint, Teams, identity management and collaboration tools.
• Overseeing business applications and ERP systems, including SAP, with a focus on improving integration, automation and reducing manual processes.
• Ensuring technology effectively supports all business functions, including a sizeable creative and design team using Apple Macs and Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Developing IT standards, processes and service delivery to create a more proactive and efficient function.
• Taking responsibility for cyber security, information security and data protection initiatives.
• Managing and developing the existing IT team, providing direction, mentoring and technical guidance.
• Ensuring reliable IT service delivery across multiple locations while remaining hands-on with technical challenges and escalations when required.
• Managing external suppliers and technology partners, ensuring effective service and commercial value.
• Working with stakeholders to identify opportunities for technology investment, process improvement and future e-commerce development.

What we’re looking for:

• Proven experience in an IT leadership or management position, ideally within a small or medium-sized organisation.
• Experience supporting multi-site businesses and managing technology across multiple locations.
• A background within e-commerce, retail, manufacturing or another product-led environment.
• A broad technical understanding of Windows-based infrastructure, networks, cloud technologies and Microsoft 365.
• Experience managing and developing small IT teams, creating a collaborative and supportive working environment.
• Knowledge of ERP platforms such as SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Sage or similar.
• An understanding of cyber security, information security, data protection and business continuity.
• Experience improving business processes through system integration, automation and technology.
• Exposure to Apple Mac environments and Adobe Creative Cloud would be beneficial, particularly when supporting creative or design teams.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical colleagues.
• A commercial mindset, with the ability to balance immediate operational requirements against longer-term technology improvements.

This is a genuine opportunity to take ownership of an IT function and shape its future direction. You'll inherit an existing team and technology environment, but have considerable scope to challenge the status quo, introduce new ways of working and build a function that is fit for the future. Rather than being restricted to maintaining business-as-usual operations, you'll have the freedom to influence decisions, drive improvements and work directly with senior stakeholders to turn ideas into practical change. You’ll have the opportunity to put your own stamp on the technology function, develop the existing team and play a key role in supporting the organisation's future growth and e-commerce ambitions.