At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT operations, manage a team, and implement secure tech solutions.
- Company: Dynamic tech firm in Leeds with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team and drive efficiencies in a vibrant workplace.
- Why this job: Shape IT strategy and make a real impact in a forward-thinking environment.
- Qualifications: Strong technical background and experience in IT operations management.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and proactive IT Operations Manager to lead and develop our IT function. This is a key hands-on role within the firm, responsible for ensuring our systems, infrastructure, and security are robust, compliant and aligned with the business’s strategic goals.
You’ll oversee the day-to-day running of IT operations, manage a small team, and play a central role in driving efficiencies, supporting colleagues, and implementing secure and future-focused technology solutions. This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of a critical function within a forward-thinking firm. You’ll have the chance to shape the IT strategy, lead meaningful improvements, and make a real impact across the organisation.
Responsibilities
- Oversee the daily operations of the firm’s network and hybrid server infrastructure
- Ensure IT systems are aligned with current and future business needs
- Manage IT budgets, forecasting, and cost-effectiveness across the function
- Lead on IT risk management, disaster recovery, and backup processes
- Implement and maintain network, data, and communications security
- Maintain Cyber Essentials Plus (CE+) accreditation
- Provide second and third-line support across hardware, operating systems, software, telephony and printing
- Manage Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 environments
- Oversee reporting and data insights (including audit logs, SQL, Excel and Power BI)
- Maintain and enhance the firm’s PMS, including workflows, forms and documents
- Manage telephony systems (3CX) and mobile communications
- Lead and support two members of the IT team
- Manage supplier relationships, contracts, and procurement planning
- Develop and maintain hardware lifecycle planning (3–5 years)
- Deliver and manage internal IT-related training (including PMS, AML and cyber security)
- Review, update and enforce IT policies and procedures in line with legal and regulatory requirements
- Maintain accurate hardware, software and licensing audits
- Work closely with internal stakeholders to provide reporting and usage insights
Experience needed
We are looking for someone with a strong technical background and a hands-on, solutions-focused approach. Ideally, you will have experience working within a legal or professional services environment and be comfortable balancing operational delivery with strategic input. Experience with Partner for Windows (P4W) case management system would be advantageous, and managing Cyber Essentials audits including Cyber Essentials Plus is required.
Microsoft Server (2025, 2022, 2019)
Microsoft environments: Azure (including AVD), Intune, Entra, Microsoft 365
LAN/WAN infrastructure knowledge
SQL database management
Hosted telephony systems
Managing third-party suppliers and contracts
IT service management (ITSM)
IT Operations Manager employer: Hays
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Operations Manager
✨Join the IT Consultancy Buzz
Get involved in local or virtual IT consultancy meetups and forums. This is where we can rub shoulders with industry professionals, get insights into what Hays values, and even spot unadvertised opportunities. Don't miss out on these chances to make a name for ourselves in the IT world!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a personal project or case study relevant to the challenges Hays might face. Use platforms like GitHub or Medium to share your findings. This not only demonstrates our consulting skills but shows a proactive attitude, making us stand out from the crowd when applying for that full-time gig.
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Follow and engage with the relevant thought leaders and influencers in IT consultancy on LinkedIn. Share insightful content and join discussions to gain visibility. A well-placed comment or shared article could catch the attention of someone at Hays!
✨Direct Apply to Hays
Let's not forget to apply directly through the Hays website! Tailor your application to showcase our understanding of their consulting style and how we can contribute to their projects. A personalised approach can make a huge difference in landing that full-time position!
We think you need these skills to ace IT Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In IT consulting, it's all about problem-solving, so make sure your CV highlights your analytical skills and any relevant projects you've tackled. Mention specific technologies or methodologies you've used to resolve issues or improve processes; this shows you can think critically and deliver results, which is vital for us at Hays.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Certifications like ITIL, PMP, or even specific tech stack qualifications can really make you stand out. Make sure to include these in your CV, as they not only demonstrate your expertise but also your commitment to staying current in the field. We love seeing candidates who are proactive about their professional development!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at Hays. Share stories about your experiences in IT consulting, and how they shaped your desire to join our team. Mention why you’re excited about this particular role, and how you see yourself contributing to our projects.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We're all busy, so make sure your application is easy to read. Use bullet points for key achievements, and don’t overload us with jargon. A clean, professional layout goes a long way. Remember, the clearer your application, the more likely we are to invite you in for an interview!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Skills
For an IT consulting role, be ready to demonstrate your technical prowess. You might face questions on systems integration, cloud technologies, or even troubleshooting specific software. If you have experience with tools like AWS, Azure, or even specific programming languages, make sure you can talk about them fluently.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Approach
IT consulting is all about solving problems for clients. Think about how you can illustrate your approach to a past challenge using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). It's a great way to show how you tackle complex issues and come up with effective solutions.
✨Know the Business Impact of IT Solutions
When discussing your experiences, focus not just on the tech solutions you implemented, but also on their business impact. Employers want to see that you can connect IT with organisational goals. Prep examples that highlight how your tech contributions improved efficiency or reduced costs for past clients or projects.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Since IT consulting often involves teamwork and client interactions, expect behavioural questions that assess your interpersonal skills. Be prepared with examples that demonstrate your adaptability, communication skills, and how you handle client feedback. Before the interview, think of situations where you worked closely with clients to create effective IT strategies or changes.
