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For Companies At a Glance
- 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: Onsite role in Cheltenham with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
- 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'll 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'll 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 employer: Optimal Ltd
Contact Detail:
Optimal Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of IT
✨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 projects that showcase 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 and implemented security controls. Practice makes perfect, so consider mock interviews with friends or mentors.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We love seeing applications from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Tailor your application to highlight your hands-on experience with the required tech stack and show us why you're the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of IT
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 Stack Knowledge: In your application, make sure to mention your familiarity with the required tech stack, like Microsoft Azure, Active Directory, and ticketing systems. We love seeing candidates who can hit the ground running with the tools we use every day!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at Optimal Ltd
✨Know Your Tech Stack Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the required tech stack, especially Microsoft Azure, Linux, and network security technologies. Brush up on your hands-on experience with these systems, as you’ll likely be asked to provide specific examples of how you've managed and supported them in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you implemented security controls or resolved complex IT issues. Be ready to explain your thought process and the steps you took to achieve successful outcomes.
✨Show Off Your Documentation Skills
Since producing clear technical documentation is part of the role, be prepared to discuss how you approach this task. Bring examples of documentation you've created in the past, and highlight your attention to detail and ability to communicate complex information clearly.
✨Demonstrate a Service-Focused Mindset
This role requires a proactive, service-focused approach. Be ready to share examples of how you've supported colleagues or clients in the past. Highlight your communication skills and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure IT systems run smoothly and efficiently.