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- Tasks: Lead the IT team, manage cyber security, and develop digital systems.
- Company: Join National Museums Scotland, a top museum group with diverse collections.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and discounts at retailers.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative, inclusive culture that values innovation and collaboration.
- Qualifications: Degree in IT or related field with senior-level experience required.
- Other info: Apply by 09/06/2025; selection event on 16-17 June 2025.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 68000 £ per year.
Full Time Salary: £60,165 – £68,216
Hours: 35 hours per week | Monday - Friday
Location: National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh | Hybrid (60% on site)
National Museums Scotland is one of the leading museum groups in Europe with one of the largest and most diverse collections in the world. As an organisation our values are Creative, Inclusive, Collaborative and Forward-thinking. We are looking for an enthusiastic, calm, honest and service-driven individual to lead our IT (Information Technology) team.
Benefits of joining us as our Head of IT will include:
- Annually alongside your salary of £60,165 – £68,216, National Museums Scotland contributes 28.97% of this towards you being a member of the Civil Service Pension Scheme
- A generous annual leave of 28.5 days – rising to 33.5 after 5 years, plus an additional 8 paid days public holidays
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Free access to national (and international) museums and exhibitions
- Exclusive discounts on both local and national High Street and online retailers
- A range of wellbeing benefits including Employee Assistance Programme 24/7
- Flexible working options such as hybrid working, part time working, paid special leave, career breaks and unpaid leave
- Access to all the above and more from day one of employment.
About the Head of IT role:
As Head of IT, you will provide advice to the executive team on the impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on strategic plans, develop the technical infrastructure to support our Strategic Plan and liaise with key business managers to ensure appropriate development of digital and information systems, software and hardware.
As the Head of IT at National Museums Scotland you will:
- Lead, motivate, support and develop the IT team to ensure the effective delivery of services
- Be responsible for cyber security, ensuring suitable systems, software, policies and practices are in place to protect the organisation from cyber-attack, and to recover effectively in the event of an incident. This requires, but is not limited to, annual certification of Cyber Essentials Plus for the whole organisation
- Develop and keep under regular review IT infrastructure plans, business continuity plans, policies, procedures and standards
- Ensure that the present and anticipated future needs of users of IT are identified, current IT systems, software and infrastructure are formally reviewed, and that plans and programmes are produced which reflect relative priorities
- Ensure that the IT function makes an effective contribution to National Museums Scotland initiatives, projects and other working groups
- Be responsible for the provision of effective technical support to all users of IT across all sites
- Manage IT aspects of security, business continuity and disaster recovery, and ensure that key business managers are aware of their responsibilities.
Skills and experience we’re looking for in our Head of IT:
- Qualified with a relevant degree or equivalent in a computer related discipline.
- Significant experience of working at a senior level in IT / ICT
- Able to establish and maintain strategy, policies and standards for the provision of ICT services.
- An excellent knowledge of strategic and operational information and communication technology (ICT) issues as they apply to a large, multi-site organisation.
Hiring the right person for the right job is everything to us. We want to encourage you to apply if you think this is the role for you. Please be sure to view our recruitment pack for this role (available on our careers website: careers.nms.ac.uk) for full details of the position that may help with your application. The closing date for this role is 09/06/2025. The Selection Event is likely to take place on the 16 – 17 June 2025.
Head of IT employer: National Museums Scotland
Contact Detail:
National Museums Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of IT
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Museums Scotland's strategic plan and values. Understanding how IT can support their creative, inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking approach will help you articulate your vision for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles. They can provide insights into the organisational culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with cyber security and disaster recovery plans. Given the emphasis on these areas in the job description, showcasing your expertise will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in ICT, especially those relevant to large, multi-site organisations. Being able to discuss current technologies and their potential impact on the museum sector will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of IT
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Head of IT position. Make sure you understand the responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the requirements of the Head of IT role. Emphasise your leadership experience, technical expertise, and any relevant achievements in IT management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Use specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications and alignment with the organisation's values.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a senior role like Head of IT.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Museums Scotland
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Before your interview, make sure you familiarise yourself with National Museums Scotland's values: Creative, Inclusive, Collaborative, and Forward-thinking. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership style and IT strategies align with these values.
✨Showcase Your Cyber Security Knowledge
Given the importance of cyber security in this role, be ready to discuss your experience with cyber security measures and how you would ensure the organisation is protected against threats. Mention any relevant certifications or frameworks you are familiar with.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
As Head of IT, you'll need to advise the executive team on ICT impacts. Prepare examples of how you've previously contributed to strategic planning and how you can help shape the future of IT at National Museums Scotland.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership Skills
The role requires leading and developing an IT team. Be ready to share your experiences in motivating teams, managing conflicts, and fostering a collaborative environment. Highlight specific instances where your leadership made a positive impact.
