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- Tasks: Manage and support internal IT systems, ensuring security and compliance.
- Company: Established tech organisation that values innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, meaningful bonus, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Must be eligible for UK Government Security Clearance; fully onsite role in Cheltenham.
- Why this job: Take ownership of IT operations and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in 3rd line support with Linux and Microsoft systems is essential.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Cheltenham, Gloucestershire (Onsite)
Package: £45,000 - £50,000 + Meaningful Bonus + Benefits
Eligibility: Must be able to obtain and maintain UK Government SC clearance - ILR or British Passport
Must Have:
- Heavy 3rd Line Support
- Managing internal IT systems across desktop, server, network and cloud environments
- Administering both Linux and Microsoft operating systems
- Using network and systems management tools
- Implementing and maintaining strong security controls across an IT estate
- Installing, configuring and troubleshooting hardware, operating systems, networks and applications
- Producing clear, accurate technical documentation and procedures
Required Tech Stack:
- Microsoft Azure & Azure Active Directory / Entra ID (3rd line support level - essential)
- Microsoft 365 & Intune (MDM)
- Windows Server & Linux (Debian/Ubuntu/RHEL or similar)
- Active Directory & Group Policy
- Firewall & network security technologies (e.g. Fortinet, Cisco, Palo Alto or similar)
- VPN and remote access solutions
- Ticketing and ITSM platforms (e.g. ServiceNow, Jira, Freshdesk or similar)
- Virtualisation (e.g. VMware, Hyper-V)
The Role:
This is a hands-on System Administrator position in a well-established technical organisation that values innovation, quality and team culture. You will own internal IT operations end-to-end in an onsite environment, managing infrastructure and security while supporting both internal staff and client-facing technical remediation work.
Must-Haves:
- Experience managing internal IT systems (end-user, server, network and cloud)
- Hands-on administration of Linux and Microsoft environments
- Knowledge of network security and firewall technologies
- Experience with ticketing systems and knowledge-base tools
- Experience with MDM platforms
- Ability to install, configure and troubleshoot hardware and software
- Excellent communication skills and proactive, service-focused approach
What You Will Be Doing:
- Manage and support internal IT systems, monitor health/stability, respond to alerts
- Implement security controls and maintain compliance with internal standards
- Assist clients in implementing technical fixes following assessments
- Produce documentation, procedures and supporting materials
- Support colleagues with day-to-day IT requirements
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives
Hands-On Experience With:
- Office, desktop, server and network administration
- Linux and Microsoft operating systems
- Infrastructure-as-a-service cloud platforms
- Network security and firewall technologies
- VPN / remote access solutions
- Ticketing and knowledge-base systems
- Mobile device management tooling
- Hardware, operating system and network configuration
Bonus Experience:
- Exposure to delivering technical remediation for clients
- Experience with ISO-aligned processes (e.g. ISO27001)
- Microsoft desktop or cloud certifications
- Experience supporting or mentoring junior team members
Important Notes:
- This is a fully onsite role in Cheltenham
- Candidates must be eligible for and capable of holding UK Government Security Clearance (SC)
- A hands-on role with active ownership of internal IT systems
If you match the above criteria and would like a confidential discussion about the role, please get in touch.
Head of IT in Gloucester employer: Optimal Ltd
Contact Detail:
Optimal Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of IT in Gloucester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend local tech meetups or industry events in Cheltenham. It's a great way to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Plus, you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a personal project or contribute to open-source software that showcases your expertise in Linux, Microsoft, and Azure. This not only boosts your portfolio but also gives you something tangible to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to explain how you've managed IT systems in the past. Use real-life examples to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience with 3rd line support and security controls to stand out from the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of IT in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with managing internal IT systems, especially in Linux and Microsoft environments. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing your 3rd line support experience!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Head of IT role. Mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your hands-on experience with security controls and network management.
Show Off Your Tech Skills: When listing your technical skills, be specific! Include your experience with Azure, Active Directory, and any ticketing systems you've used. We love seeing candidates who can clearly articulate their tech stack expertise.
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 at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Optimal Ltd
✨Know Your Tech Stack Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like Microsoft Azure, Linux, and network security tools. Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with these systems and how you've used them in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to share examples of how you've tackled complex IT issues in previous positions. Think about specific challenges you faced, the steps you took to resolve them, and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your proactive, service-focused approach.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions related to 3rd line support and system administration. Brush up on troubleshooting techniques for both Linux and Microsoft environments, as well as your knowledge of firewalls and VPN solutions. Practice articulating your thought process clearly.
✨Emphasise Communication and Teamwork
Since this role involves supporting colleagues and clients, highlight your communication skills and ability to work collaboratively. Share examples of how you've contributed to team projects or mentored junior staff, showcasing your commitment to a positive team culture.