IT Systems Lead

Location: London, could be Milton Keynes, Birmingham or Preston

Salary: Depending on experience + benefits

Purpose of the role:

• No people management elements.
• Dynamic, confident and driven with excellent communication skills; natural ability to build effective relationships and influence key colleagues.
• Lead and become expert responsible for systems; these will be agreed with each person and could include core systems, functional systems, automation, data, integration and security.
• Analyse business systems and associated data, gain deep understanding and work with stakeholders to identify opportunities and implement improvements.
• Deep understanding of systems and data; analyse systems and create a roadmap for improvement, then implement directly or manage external providers and business resources.
• Flexibility essential; comfortable working on changes large and small, directly or leading a team of resources, running several work packages simultaneously.
• Responsible for business process improvement and system enhancement; expert in understanding process, identifying improvements, creating compelling business cases and delivering projects.
• Constantly seek to make systems operate faster, with greater functionality and enhanced security.

Qualifications / Experience:

• Microsoft 365 certification highly desirable.
• Microsoft Data and AI certification highly desirable.
• Project management highly desirable.

Essential skills:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience supporting and managing systems in a similar business context.
• In depth knowledge of systems, data, integration and associated principles.
• Highly skilled in analysis and manipulation of data.
• Ability to build accurate and visually compelling reporting using tools such as Power BI.
• Experience creating requirements specification and taking them to market for solutions.
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft products, particularly Office 365 and Microsoft Power.
• Use of automation technology to improve business processes is a distinct advantage.
• Good general knowledge of end‑user technologies (PCs, Audio‑Visual, Mobile Phones, Telephone systems).
• Broad understanding of technology and a good level of awareness of technical concepts.
• Understanding of project management principles.

Main Responsibilities:

• Subject matter expert for designated areas (e.g. Automation, Data, Systems, Security).
• Lead business process and data mapping.
• Run checks against performance of systems, own actions that arise.
• Chair systems working groups, ensure scheduling and that actions are recorded and followed through to the agreed time.
• Work with stakeholders to identify improvements or solutions to business problems.
• Understand business requirements and design solutions that exceed expectations.
• Research, design and implement systems and solutions appropriate for our business tree.
• Build forms and simple applications to supplement existing off‑the‑shelf applications.
• Identify and implement initiatives that save time, add functionality or improve decision making.
• Regularly research technology solutions to business problems and prepare succinct business cases for cost‑effective improvements.
• Review existing technology investments and identify opportunities to improve performance and/or reduce cost.
• Drive usage and adoption of key systems in the business; use data to demonstrate usage levels and trends.
• Contribute high‑quality systems documentation and training articles.
• Deliver professional, courteous and proactive IT service to customers.
• Deliver written work to a high standard and adhere to firm policies for document release.
• Keep information secure and prevent inappropriate disclosure.
• Ensure operations under management sustain appropriate quality assurance standards.
• Accept additional responsibilities as requested by Head of IT Systems and Security.
• Project a professional image at all times.
• Ensure colleagues comply with firm procedures.
• Carry out duties in accordance with Equal Opportunities and Health and Safety policies.
• Maintain high standards of work quality, personal presentation and conduct.
• Hold a valid driving licence.
• Reporting and administrative duties.
• Data administration as required.
• Weekly and monthly management reporting as requested.
• Financial responsibilities and authority limits.

Benefits:

• Agile Working: Enjoy the flexibility of core hours from 10 AM to 2 PM and two home working days, allowing you to balance work and personal commitments.
• 33 days holiday (including bank holidays), with the opportunity to buy or sell up to 5 days (28 days on a training contract, with the opportunity to buy 5 days).
• Competitive salary package.
• Employee recognition awards: Outstanding Performance Award Bonus and other recognition initiatives.
• New and improved programme for succession planning and supportive management structure to help you realise your potential.
• Employee Assistance Programme: Access a free confidential 24‑hour support service, including unlimited counselling sessions and virtual doctors available for you and your family.
• Competitive benefits associated with a culture that values continuous learning and growth.