At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT operations across multiple schools, ensuring top-notch tech support and infrastructure.
- Company: Join the Girls Day School Trust, a pioneer in girls' education with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a values-driven organisation committed to excellence and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on education by enhancing IT systems that support teaching and learning.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT management, strategic delivery, and team leadership is essential.
The predicted salary is between 40992 - 58569 € per year.
The Girls Day School Trust is seeking to appoint an outstanding IT Operations Manager (Cluster) to play a key leadership role across a group of GDST schools in Sheffield, Norwich, Nottingham and Northampton.
The IT Operations Manager (Cluster) will be responsible for the provision of IT infrastructure and systems to the schools in the cluster. They will forge close relationships with colleagues in the cluster leadership team and in schools to deliver IT systems that enable high-quality teaching, learning, and cluster collaboration.
The postholder will provide technical expertise to the schools in the cluster across a broad range of technologies, liaising with Trust Office ITS colleagues, school technical teams and digital leads to understand and resolve issues in a timely manner. They will provide professional development and leadership to the school-based technical teams, in close liaison with school-based EdTech leads and line managers, ensuring that technical staff understand all core ITS systems and processes.
The IT Operations Manager (Cluster) will be accountable to the Trust Office ITS School Support Team for the technical management, installation, maintenance, availability and integrity of the schools IT infrastructure. They will quality assure the provision of IT services in schools, ensuring that GDST standards are maintained and procedures followed.
We are looking for someone who can offer experience of:
- strategic delivery and change management
- operational effectiveness and technical support
- security and disaster recovery
- quality assurance, compliance and reporting
- leadership, management and collaboration
Why join GDST? The GDST is a unique family of schools with a long history of excellence and innovation in girls education. We are proud of our distinctive ethos, our strong sense of purpose and our commitment to supporting both pupils and colleagues to thrive. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution across multiple schools and to work as part of a values-led organisation with ambition for the future.
For further details and to apply please click the apply button. Closing date: 11th May 2026 10:00 AM. The Girls Day School Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection checks appropriate to the post, including online searches and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
IT Operations Manager (Cluster) employer: GIRLS DAY SCHOOL TRUST
The Girls Day School Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and values-driven work culture that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. As an IT Operations Manager (Cluster), you will have the unique opportunity to lead and innovate across multiple schools in vibrant locations such as Sheffield, Norwich, Nottingham, and Northampton, while benefiting from a supportive environment that fosters both personal and professional development. Join us to make a meaningful impact in education and be part of a community dedicated to excellence and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Operations Manager (Cluster)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at GDST on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help us stand out when we apply.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the schools in the cluster. Knowing their specific IT needs will show that we’re genuinely interested and ready to make an impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our responses to common interview questions, especially around leadership and technical expertise. We want to sound confident and knowledgeable about IT operations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and show our enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Operations Manager (Cluster)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the IT Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in strategic delivery, operational effectiveness, and leadership. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our schools. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:Don’t forget to mention your technical skills! We’re interested in your experience with IT infrastructure, security, and compliance. Be specific about the technologies you’ve worked with and any successful projects you've led.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at GIRLS DAY SCHOOL TRUST
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
As an IT Operations Manager, you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of various technologies. Brush up on the specific systems and tools used in educational settings, especially those relevant to the GDST. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented or improved these technologies in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership and collaboration with school-based technical teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed change, and fostered collaboration in previous positions. Highlight your ability to mentor and develop others in a tech environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and operational effectiveness. Think of scenarios where you've had to resolve IT issues under pressure or implement strategic changes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly.
✨Understand the GDST Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of the Girls Day School Trust. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their commitment to high-quality education. Showing genuine interest in their ethos can set you apart from other candidates.
