At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the evolution of IT, DevOps, and AI strategies for a global tech organisation.
- Company: IES, a leading innovator in building physics analytics with a strong purpose.
- Benefits: Flexible working, diverse team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming diverse applicants; early application encouraged.
- Why this job: Drive impactful technology transformation in a values-driven climate tech company.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in IT, DevOps, Cloud, and AI required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Location: UK (Glasgow or Remote, with regular travel to Glasgow HQ)
Employment Type: Full time, Hybrid or Remote (depending on location)
Reference Number: TBH60
About Us
At IES, we value People, Purpose and Innovation. We offer a flexible and supportive working environment and the opportunity to work with a team of friendly, interesting and diverse people from across the globe who are passionate about what we do.
For over 30 years, we have built a solid reputation as the leading global innovator in integrated performance-based analysis and are now home to the most advanced building physics analytics team in the world. Our software solutions and expert consultancy services empower designers, engineers, building owners and operators to deliver more efficient, resilient and sustainable buildings through design, retrofit and operation.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Head of IT, DevOps & AI to lead the evolution of IES’s global technology estate. This is a senior leadership role combining enterprise IT, modern DevOps practice, cloud transformation and emerging AI capabilities. You will define and deliver technology strategy, modernise infrastructure and platforms, mature DevOps practices, and embed AI as a core enabler across the organisation. The role will play a critical part in transitioning IES away from traditional on-premise infrastructure, establishing a fully cloud-based, secure and scalable environment, and supporting our ambition to become an AI-first organisation.
What You’ll Do
- Define and execute an integrated IT, DevOps and AI strategy aligned to IES’s business objectives
- Lead the transition from legacy data centre infrastructure to a modern, multi-cloud environment
- Own and develop enterprise-wide AI strategy, including governance, compliance and responsible AI practices
- Lead global IT operations, including ITSM, service desk, resilience, disaster recovery and monitoring
- Embed DevOps best practice across engineering teams, championing automation, CI/CD and cloud-native delivery
- Oversee architecture and platforms across infrastructure, cloud, networks and AI systems
- Ensure cyber security, risk management and secure-by-design principles are embedded across all services
- Build, lead and develop high-performing teams across IT, DevOps, Cloud and AI
- Partner closely with Product, Engineering and senior leadership to influence and deliver technology direction
- Manage key vendors, budgets and FinOps practices to ensure commercial and operational efficiency
Skills & Experience
- Senior leadership experience (C-suite -1 level) across IT, DevOps, Cloud and AI
- Strong experience leading large-scale cloud migrations and operating multi-cloud environments
- Deep expertise in DevOps practices including CI/CD, infrastructure automation and cloud-native architectures
- Proficiency in Azure DevOps with experience migrating to GitHub
- Strong scripting and automation experience (Python, Bash, Terraform)
- Solid background in Linux administration, containerisation and orchestration technologies
- Proven experience leading cyber security, risk management and compliance (including ISO standards and Cyber Essentials Plus)
- Experience establishing and governing AI platforms, data engineering foundations and AI tooling at scale
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels
Nice to Have
- Experience operating in highly regulated or security-conscious environments
- Exposure to AI observability, explainability and responsible AI tooling
- Experience supporting predominantly remote or hybrid workforces at scale
- Background working within software, technology or climate tech organisations
Why Join Us
- Lead a critical technology transformation at a globally respected climate tech organisation
- Shape how AI, cloud and DevOps capabilities are embedded across the business
- Work alongside world-class experts across software, engineering and consultancy
- High-impact leadership role with strategic visibility and autonomy
- Values-driven organisation with a strong sense of purpose
How to apply
To apply for the role please send a covering letter stating the skills you have from the requirements listed and an up to date CV to: Early application is encouraged and IES reserves the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
IES is committed to an inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all backgrounds, even if you don’t meet every requirement listed. We can provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process, for example, sharing interview questions in advance, allowing breaks between stages, or offering extra time where needed. If you require support at any point, please contact the IES HR team at or +44 141 945 8500. Candidate information is handled in line with GDPR; please see our Recruitment Privacy Statement.
Head of IT, DevOps & AI in Southampton employer: IES Ltd.
Contact Detail:
IES Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of IT, DevOps & AI in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant meetups or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company, understand their values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to shine, so practice common interview questions and have some thoughtful questions ready to ask them too!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! If you’ve got a portfolio or examples of your work, make sure to bring them along or share them during the interview. We love seeing real-life applications of your expertise, especially in areas like DevOps and AI.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that can keep you top of mind as they make their decision. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of IT, DevOps & AI in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your cover letter to highlight how your skills align with the specific requirements of the Head of IT, DevOps & AI role. We want to see your passion for technology and how you can contribute to our mission.
Showcase Your Experience: In your CV, emphasise your senior leadership experience and any relevant projects you've led in IT, DevOps, or AI. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so make it clear how your background fits the bill.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key achievements stand out. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to explore more about us while you’re at it.
How to prepare for a job interview at IES Ltd.
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and technologies in IT, DevOps, and AI. Brush up on your knowledge of cloud environments, CI/CD practices, and scripting languages like Python and Bash. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just a leader but also a hands-on expert.
✨Align with Their Vision
Understand IES’s mission and how they aim to integrate AI and cloud solutions into their operations. Be prepared to discuss how your previous experiences align with their goals, especially in transitioning from legacy systems to modern infrastructures. This shows that you’re not only a fit for the role but also passionate about their purpose.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a senior leadership role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to build and lead high-performing teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, particularly in fast-paced environments. Highlight your experience in stakeholder management and how you’ve influenced technology direction at a senior level.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making processes. Think about challenges you’ve faced in previous roles, especially regarding cloud migrations or implementing DevOps practices. Articulating your thought process clearly will help interviewers see your strategic thinking capabilities.