At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT operations and manage external tech partners in a dynamic, growth-focused environment.
- Company: Join an ambitious, PE-backed firm with a collaborative culture and exciting expansion plans.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, flexible working, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: Ideal for those who thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy hands-on leadership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on technology strategy while working with cutting-edge Microsoft solutions.
- Qualifications: Proven IT management experience and strong knowledge of Microsoft 365 and Azure.
- An Interim IT Operations Manager role working in a high-growth, PE-backed firm.
- Hands-on responsibilities in a Microsoft landscape, working closely with an MSP.
About Our Client
- Michael Page is proud to be partnered with an ambitious, growth-focused business that has recently secured significant investment and is entering an exciting phase of expansion. With approximately 200 employees across multiple UK sites, the organisation has a dynamic, entrepreneurial culture where technology is viewed as a key enabler of future growth.
- The business operates a largely outsourced IT model, partnering with a specialist managed service provider for infrastructure and service desk support. As a result, they are seeking an experienced Interim IT Manager who can act as the internal technology lead, ensuring suppliers perform effectively while helping shape the future technology roadmap.
Job Description
This is a broad and highly visible Interim IT Operations Manager role that will suit an IT professional who enjoys balancing operational leadership with strategic thinking.
Reporting into senior business leaders, you will take ownership of the internal technology function and work closely with external technology partners to ensure the delivery of stable, secure and scalable IT services.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Acting as the primary technology lead across the business.
- Managing the relationship and performance of the external MSP responsible for infrastructure and service desk services.
- Ensuring IT services are delivered in line with business expectations and agreed service levels.
- Leading technology initiatives across cyber security, business continuity, backups, resilience and operational risk.
- Providing input into the wider technology strategy and future roadmap.
- Working closely with senior stakeholders to align technology investment with business objectives.
- Managing and developing a small internal technology team consisting of two Power Platform-focused developers (one senior and one junior).
- Supporting the continued adoption and optimisation of Microsoft technologies including Microsoft 365 and Azure.
- Identifying opportunities for process improvement, automation and efficiency gains across the organisation.
- Supporting technology projects related to business growth, scalability and operational effectiveness.
This role requires someone comfortable moving between strategic discussions with leadership teams and hands-to-day technology matters.
The Successful Applicant
We're looking to speak with experienced Interim IT Managers, Interim IT Operations Managers, or Interim Infrastructure Managers who have successfully operated within growing businesses and are comfortable working within an outsourced support model.
The ideal candidate will possess:
- Proven experience leading an internal IT function.
- Strong experience managing and challenging Managed Service Providers.
- A solid understanding of Microsoft 365, Azure and cloud-based technologies.
- Experience overseeing infrastructure, security and operational technology services.
- Knowledge of cyber security, backup, resilience and disaster recovery best practices.
- Previous experience managing technical teams and developing talent.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.
- A proactive and commercially minded approach to problem solving.
- Experience working within fast-paced, changing environments.
Just as importantly, we're looking for someone who will fit the culture of the business. You'll be approachable, pragmatic and low-ego in your style, with a willingness to roll your sleeves up when needed. This is a collaborative environment where personality and attitude are just as important as technical capability.
Candidates based in South Manchester or the surrounding areas will be particularly well suited given the requirement to attend the office three days per week.
What's on Offer
- Competitive daily rate ranging from £400 to £475 per day.
- Inside IR35.
- 3 Month contract (Likely Extension).
- 2-3 days on-site.
This is an excellent opportunity for an Interim IT Operations Manager to contribute their expertise to a reputable organisation.
Interim IT Operations Manager in Manchester employer: Michael Page (UK)
Join a well-established, mid-sized professional services firm in Cheltenham that prioritises employee growth and development. With a supportive and collaborative work culture, you will benefit from a competitive salary, hybrid working model, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance your well-being. This is an excellent opportunity for an Audit Manager to thrive in a dynamic environment while making a meaningful impact on clients' financial needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim IT Operations Manager in Manchester
✨Get Involved in Tech Meetups
If you're looking for a temporary gig in IT consulting, tech meetups can be a goldmine. They’re perfect for meeting potential employers and showcasing your skills in person. Don't just show up—share your ideas and engage in discussions. That's how we can make ourselves memorable!
✨Leverage Your University’s Resources
University career services are often buzzing with opportunities tailored for temporary roles in IT consulting. Go to workshops, job fairs, and networking events. It's a chance to connect with employers who are eager to find fresh talent like us, so don’t let it slip away!
✨Show Your Skills with Micro-Projects
Create mini-projects or case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills or innovative solutions in IT. Sharing these on platforms like GitHub or personal blogs can showcase your abilities when connecting with potential employers or during interviews. Trust us, it makes a strong impression!
✨Apply Directly through Our Website
When you spot an opening at Michael Page (UK) that excites you, don’t miss out on applying through our website directly. You won't just stand out in a sea of applicants; you’ll show that you’re proactively interested in their work. Plus, it's always good to simplify the process as much as possible!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim IT Operations Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Tech Skills:In IT consulting, showcasing your technical skills is essential. Make sure your CV lists relevant programming languages, software tools, or methodologies you've worked with. If you've tackled specific projects or have certifications (like AWS or Cisco), bring those to the forefront. We're always keen to see how you can apply your skills to solve problems!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:For a temporary role at Michael Page (UK), it's important to express your adaptability and eagerness to learn. In your cover letter, highlight how your past experiences have prepared you for quick integration into new teams and projects. A personal touch showing your excitement for the specific challenges at Michael Page (UK) can make all the difference!
List Relevant Projects:If you’ve worked on consulting projects or tech rollouts, don’t hesitate to mention them! Detail the challenges you faced, your contributions, and the outcomes. This practical experience showcases your ability to deliver value in a short time frame, which is key for a temporary role in IT consulting.
Keep It Concise and Impactful:Given the temporary nature of the role, our hiring team at Michael Page (UK) will appreciate a clear, concise application. Make your CV scannable with bullet points and emphasise your most relevant experiences. We want to see your capability at a glance, so aim for brevity without sacrificing detail!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page (UK)
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
In IT consulting, you’ll often face complex issues that need quick solutions. Be ready to discuss past experiences where you tackled problems head-on, ideally using specific frameworks or tools. Think about how you can highlight your analytical thinking and decision-making process during the interview.
✨Brush Up on Relevant Technologies
Make sure you’re familiar with key technologies relevant to the role at Michael Page (UK). This might include project management tools, CRM software, or any specific programming languages they use. Being able to speak confidently about these can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
Being in a temporary role often means you need to hit the ground running. Prepare to showcase your ability to adapt to new environments and workflows. Maybe think of examples where you’ve quickly learned new systems or collaborated with diverse teams to achieve results in tight deadlines.
✨Pitch Your Consulting Mindset
Consulting is all about understanding client needs and delivering effective solutions. Present yourself as someone who can think strategically and provide actionable insights. Talk about how you plan to gather requirements and communicate findings to non-technical stakeholders at Michael Page (UK).
