Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT operations and drive digital transformation initiatives to enhance member experience.
- Company: Join Darlington Building Society, an award-winning organization committed to innovation and community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive rewards, annual bonuses, flexible working, and leadership development programs.
- Why this job: Shape the future of IT in a supportive environment that values diversity and continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Proven IT leadership experience with strong skills in transformation, cybersecurity, and stakeholder management.
- Other info: This role offers hybrid working options and a salary between £75,000 to £80,000.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 80000 £ per year.
About the Role:
With a strong heritage in the Northeast and the mortgage market, Darlington Building Society has a proud history and an exciting future. We are committed to bringing diversity and choice to the financial services marketplace by offering innovative products, personal service, and quality advice.
In recent years, we’ve modernised and transformed the Society with significant investments in systems, platforms, and technology. These changes multiple prestigious industry awards, including Best Building Society, Best Help to Buy Provider of the Year, and Best Self-Build Lender of the Year.
We are now looking for a dynamic Head of IT & Change to lead our IT and Business Transformation function. This is a unique opportunity to drive strategic initiatives, enhance operational efficiency, and deliver cutting-edge solutions that improve our member experience.
Key Responsibilities:
• Support the development and execution of the Society\’s IT and transformation strategy to achieve business goals.
• Lead IT operations, ensuring secure, reliable, and scalable infrastructure and systems.
• Champion and oversee digital transformation initiatives to enhance resilience, member experience, and operational efficiency.
• Manage critical IT supplier relationships and ensure the successful delivery of business transformation projects on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation across IT and change management functions.
• Drive adoption of new technologies and processes through effective leadership and communication.
• Ensure robust cybersecurity measures and compliance with GDPR and other applicable regulations.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate IT risks, while developing contingency plans for potential disruptions.
• Lead a high-performing team, supporting professional growth and ensuring resource allocation aligns with strategic priorities.
• Act as a key liaison for technology audits and compliance reviews.
What We\’re Looking For:
We are looking for an experienced leader with a passion for transformation and innovation. You’ll bring:
• A proven track record in IT and transformation leadership, including delivering strategic change programmes.
• In-depth knowledge of IT infrastructure, cloud technologies, cybersecurity, and IT risk management.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes.
• A collaborative mindset, capable of fostering innovation and high performance within teams.
• Someone who is looking to take the next step in their leadership career.
• Alignment with our values: Be Yourself, Be Better, Be Trusted.
Why Join Our Team?
At Darlington Building Society, we believe in fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone can thrive. We offer competitive rewards and a range of benefits designed to enhance your well-being and career development, including:
• Annual Bonus Scheme.
• Performance-linked pay progression.
• 10% Employee Contribution Pension Scheme.
• Life Cover (4x annual salary).
• Minimum of 2 days for volunteering each year.
• Employee benefits platform and Health Care Cash Plan.
• Enhanced Family-Friendly Leave Entitlements.
• Leadership Development and Learning Programs.
Plus, many more!
About Us:
Darlington Building Society is an award-winning organization with a mission to provide excellent service to our members while supporting homeownership and local communities. With nine branches across the region, we take pride in our heritage and commitment to making a difference.
Job Type: Full Time, Permanent (flexible options considered)
Location: This role is based at our Darlington Head Office, with hybrid working available (minimum two days per week on-site). PLEASE NOTE THIS IS AN ESSENTIAL REQUIRMENT TO THE ROLE AND NON NEGOTIABLE
Salary: £75,000 to £80,000 per annum (dependant on experience)
If you’re ready to shape the future of IT and transformation at an organisation that values innovation and people, apply now!
For more information, visit our Careers Page.
Head of IT & Change employer: Darlington Building Society
Contact Detail:
Darlington Building Society Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of IT & Change
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the latest trends in IT infrastructure and cloud technologies. Being able to discuss these topics confidently during your interview will demonstrate your expertise and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare examples of successful transformation projects you've led in the past. Highlighting measurable outcomes and your leadership style will help you stand out as a candidate who can drive change effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Darlington Building Society's recent digital transformation initiatives and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Showing that you understand their mission and values will make a positive impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Darlington Building Society on platforms like LinkedIn. Gaining insights into the company culture and expectations can give you an edge in your application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of IT & Change
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of IT & Change position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, and think about how your experience aligns with these.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience in IT leadership and transformation. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to drive strategic initiatives and manage IT operations effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for transformation and innovation. Address how you can contribute to the Society's goals and values, and mention any relevant achievements in your previous roles.
Highlight Stakeholder Management Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, emphasize your stakeholder management skills. Provide examples of how you've influenced decision-making at various levels and fostered collaboration within teams.
How to prepare for a job interview at Darlington Building Society
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership roles and how you've successfully driven IT transformation initiatives. Highlight specific examples where you led teams through change, focusing on measurable outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Technical Knowledge
Make sure to brush up on your knowledge of IT infrastructure, cloud technologies, and cybersecurity. Be ready to discuss how these elements play a role in enhancing operational efficiency and member experience.
✨Emphasize Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare to share experiences where you've effectively managed stakeholders at various levels. Discuss how you influenced decisions and fostered collaboration to achieve strategic goals.
✨Align with Company Values
Familiarize yourself with Darlington Building Society's values: Be Yourself, Be Better, Be Trusted. Think of examples from your career that demonstrate how you embody these values and how they align with your leadership style.
