At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT operations, cybersecurity, and infrastructure to shape our digital future.
- Company: Join James Cropper, a pioneering and sustainable manufacturing group in the Lake District.
- Benefits: Work in a beautiful location with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a forward-thinking environment focused on sustainability.
- Qualifications: Proven IT leadership experience and strong knowledge of cybersecurity best practices.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on continuous improvement and personal development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a forward-thinking IT leader ready to shape the future of digital operations in one of the UK’s most innovative and sustainably driven manufacturing groups? At James Cropper, based in the beautiful Lake District, we are looking for an IT Operations Manager to lead our infrastructure, cybersecurity and operational IT services — ensuring our business remains secure, resilient, and ready for the future.
As our IT Operations Manager, you’ll take ownership of the strategic direction and day-to-day management of our IT services, including infrastructure, helpdesk, cybersecurity and compliance. You’ll lead, coach, and develop a high performing team, while driving change programmes that enable our business to operate securely, efficiently and with resilience. This is a hands-on leadership role where your expertise will shape our digital future — from cloud and networking to security posture, disaster recovery, and enterprise risk management.
What You’ll Lead & Deliver
- Building and developing an engaged, collaborative IT operations team
- Leading the design, delivery and continuous improvement of all infrastructure and cybersecurity services
- Managing key technologies including networking, servers, storage, firewalls, telephony, DR, and security operations
- Monitoring emerging cybersecurity threats and proactively strengthening organisational defence with our internal team and external partners
- Ensuring compliance with regulatory and security best practice
- Driving IT change projects that enhance capability and support business growth
- Enhancing adoption of developing services and toolsets (e.g. AI)
- Technical integration of IT and Operational Technology (industrial systems and networking e.g. PLCs/SCADA) considering risk, cybersecurity and other controls
- Managing vendors, budgets, and investments in line with strategic priorities
What You’ll Bring
We’re looking for someone who combines technical depth with strong people leadership. Ideally, you will bring:
- Proven experience in an IT leadership role
- Deep knowledge of cybersecurity and IT infrastructure best practice
- Experience managing complex, multi-site technical environments
- Strong communication, influencing and decision-making skills
- Ability to manage concurrent priorities in a fast-moving environment
- Experience of service reporting & managing customer expectations
- Experience scoping and delivering improvement projects and automation
- A proactive, collaborative approach aligned with our values: Forward Thinking, Responsible and Caring
Qualifications such as CISSP/CISM/CompTIA/CCNA, ITIL or degree-level study are desirable, as is experience in a manufacturing environment — but above all, we’re looking for a leader who wants to make a real impact.
Why Join Us?
At James Cropper, innovation is woven into everything we do. From cutting-edge materials to world leading sustainability initiatives, our teams thrive on curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Set in the heart of the Lakes, our site offers a unique blend of world-class engineering and natural beauty — the ideal environment for a leader who wants the space to think, grow and make a genuine impact.
If this sounds like you and you have an interest in working for James Cropper PLC please apply today!
Information Technology Operations Manager in Kendal employer: James Cropper
Contact Detail:
James Cropper Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Information Technology Operations Manager in Kendal
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you stand out as someone who genuinely wants to be part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through practical examples. When discussing your experience, focus on specific projects or challenges you've tackled that relate to the role. This will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our innovative team at James Cropper.
We think you need these skills to ace Information Technology Operations Manager in Kendal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of IT Operations Manager. Highlight your experience in managing IT infrastructure and cybersecurity, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills. We want to see how you can make a real impact!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your values align with ours. Be sure to mention any relevant qualifications like CISSP or ITIL that set you apart from the crowd.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and drive IT change projects. Numbers and results speak volumes, so don’t be shy about sharing them with us!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at James Cropper!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Cropper
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of IT infrastructure and cybersecurity best practices. Be ready to discuss specific technologies like networking, servers, and firewalls, as well as how you've managed them in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading and developing high-performing teams. Think about times when you’ve driven change or improved processes, and be ready to share these stories during the interview.
✨Understand the Company’s Values
Familiarise yourself with James Cropper's values: Forward Thinking, Responsible, and Caring. Be prepared to explain how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their innovative culture.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in managing IT operations and how you approached them, especially in a fast-moving environment.