At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise IT operations, ensuring reliable and secure service delivery.
- Company: Specialist tech organisation supporting critical UK services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: 5 days on-site in Hereford with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence and technology while leading a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership in IT operations and technical team management required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Location: Hereford (5 days on-site)
Function: Defence
Reports to: Head of Engineering - MUST HOLD ACTIVE SC CLEARANCE TO BE CONSIDERED
About Us
We are a specialist technology organisation trusted to build, secure, and maintain highly resilient communications infrastructure for some of the UK's most critical services, spanning Government, Defence, Healthcare, Enterprise, and Data Centre environments. Our culture is defined by four core values: Security that sets us apart, Experience and empathy over ego, Teamwork at all times, and Trust built on always delivering.
The Role
We are looking for a Head of System Operations to take full ownership of the day-to-day leadership, performance, and operational effectiveness of our Operations function. This role bridges technical execution and operational management, driving the team away from reactive support toward structured, process-driven, and resilient service delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct line management for the Operations team and Service Desk Lead
- Build, develop, and structure a high-performing operational department
- Set clear expectations around delivery, behaviours, accountability, and standards
- Conduct performance reviews, coaching, 1:1s, and development planning
- Own the day-to-day delivery of reliable, secure, and consistent IT operations
- Ensure service uptime, availability, and performance across the estate
- Define, implement, and enforce ITIL-aligned operational processes
- Own incident, change, problem, and service transition processes
- Chair or provide operational sign-off within Change Advisory Board activities
- Own operational acceptance of new services transitioning from Engineering into live support
- Drive problem management and root cause reduction across the estate
- Own capacity planning across people, platforms, and service demand
- Oversee asset lifecycle management and service sustainability
- Lead and provide direction during major incidents and critical service events
- Act as the senior operational escalation point for the Operations team
- Report operational performance, service risks, and improvement priorities to senior leadership
- Ensure all operational activity aligns with security, compliance, and regulatory requirements
Skills & Experience Required
- Strong experience leading IT Operations, Infrastructure, or Service Delivery functions
- Proven track record managing technical teams and building operational capability
- Solid understanding of networking, firewalls, virtualisation, Linux, Windows, MDM, and cloud services
- Experience implementing ITIL-aligned operational processes
- Strong background in service transition, operational readiness, and continual improvement
- Proven people leadership with the ability to build high-performing teams
- Strong organisational and prioritisation skills in fast-paced environments
Tools & Methodologies
- Strong working knowledge of ITIL-based service management
- Experience with ITSM and ticketing platforms
- Familiarity with monitoring, alerting, and reporting tooling
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365
Education & Qualifications
- Degree level or equivalent desirable but not essential
- ITIL Practitioner or equivalent experience strongly desirable
- Leadership or management training desirable
- Relevant technical certifications beneficial
Head of Systems Operations in Ross on Wye employer: IO Associates
As a leading specialist technology organisation in Hereford, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of security, teamwork, and trust, making us an exceptional employer for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in the Defence sector. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through structured development opportunities and a focus on building high-performing teams, ensuring that every member can thrive in their role while contributing to critical services across the UK. With a strong emphasis on operational excellence and a supportive work environment, we offer a unique chance to lead and innovate in a dynamic field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Systems Operations in Ross on Wye
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Head of Systems Operations role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to IT operations and leadership. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources. Show them you’re not just about the technical skills but also about building high-performing teams!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your achievements! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your past successes in managing operational effectiveness and driving improvements. Numbers speak volumes, so bring those stats along!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Systems Operations in Ross on Wye
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in IT operations and service delivery, and don’t forget to mention any relevant certifications or training that align with our needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for the Head of Systems Operations role. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and improved operational processes in the past.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your people leadership skills in action! Include examples of how you've built high-performing teams and managed performance effectively. This will help us understand your approach to team dynamics.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at IO Associates
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge, especially around IT operations, networking, and ITIL processes. Be ready to discuss your experience with managing teams and delivering operational excellence.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership style and how you've built high-performing teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you’ve driven change or improved service delivery.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with the company’s core values: Security, Experience, Teamwork, and Trust. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your work and how they align with your approach to leadership.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
