At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT service readiness, ensuring operational viability before launch.
- Company: Join the Post Office, a vital part of UK communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27.5 days leave, bonuses, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping IT services for the future.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT Service Management and strong stakeholder influence required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Salary: Competitive plus comprehensive benefits package
Grade: 3A
Reporting Line: Head of Introduction & Improvement Management
Contact Type: Permanent
Location: London
What to expect
As an IT Operational Readiness Lead, you will join us on our journey and undertake a truly valuable role responsible for defining, building, delivering and assuring IT services that support the Post Office business and are fully aligned to the Post Office strategy, IT Strategy and target operating model.
You will be a lead practitioner within the Introduction & Improvement Management team, providing senior capability to shape, embed, and assure the operational viability of services before they enter live operation. This role offers you a unique opportunity to influence programmes and product teams early, driving consistent standards, and providing independent challenge to ensure operational risks are understood and managed.
How our people behave is as important to Post Office, as what is delivered. The IT Operational Readiness Lead will role model the Post Office behaviours and demonstrate a Postmaster first mindset.
What we can do for you
Our business is changing and we understand that attracting the right talent is pivotal in driving the positive change needed, to help us achieve our ambitious goals. Beyond a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- 27.5 days annual leave (rising to 30 after 2 years), plus bank holidays
- Up to 18% on target bonus opportunity
- Annual car allowance
- Generous pension scheme with minimum 9% employer contribution
- Access to 24/7 digital GP services and our Employee Assistance Programme
- 6 x Life assurance and income protection after 12 months service
- Over 400 online courses, mentoring, apprenticeships, and development programmes
- Access to our benefits platform for exclusive discounts & savings
What you’ll need to succeed
To be successful in this role you will have significant experience operating in IT Service Management, Service Design & Transition, or Operational Readiness roles within complex, enterprise environments.
As an IT Operational Readiness Lead, you will have experience defining and embedding frameworks, standards, and governance models to assure services entering live operation. In addition to this, the ideal candidate will:
- ITIL Foundation or equivalent service management certification.
- Proven experience managing teams that support both operational service delivery and technology adoption.
- Demonstrable experience providing independent assurance, oversight, and challenge across complex programmes and product-based delivery models.
- Strong track record of influencing senior stakeholders and delivery teams to embed operational considerations early in the lifecycle.
- Experience driving continuous improvement in operational practices, using insight, feedback, and lessons learned from live services.
- Experience working across cross-functional teams, including Product, Engineering, Service Operations, and Delivery, to drive consistent outcomes.
- Proven ability to identify and manage operational risks, issues, and dependencies within change portfolios.
- Experience of operating within governance forums, readiness reviews, and go/no-go decision-making environments.
- Project or programme management certification (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile).
About us
At Post Office Ltd, we’re proud to be at the heart of communities across the UK, upheld by the dedication and service of our postmasters. We offer essential services that people rely on every day, from parcels and banking to identity and government services. While we continue to evolve with digital innovation, our commitment to personal, face-to-face service remains core to who we are.
Our journey is one of reflection, growth, and meaningful change. We’re looking for people who think differently. Those with resilience, purpose, and a deep sense of responsibility to our postmasters, partners and the communities they serve.
If you're driven by the chance to make a real impact and help shape a future built on progress and integrity, we’d love to hear from you.
Application Guidance
Our commitment to embracing diversity extends beyond just words. While we’ve outlined key skills above, we recognise that great candidates come from a variety of backgrounds. We value diverse perspectives and are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
As a Disability Confident Employer, we recognise the value people with disabilities can bring to our business. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process or would like further details on the job description, please contact talentacquisition@postoffice.co.uk.
We’re thrilled by your interest in this opportunity and truly value every application we receive. Please note the advert may close early if we receive a high volume of applications. Unfortunately, we’re unable to provide individual feedback on all submissions.
IT Operational Readiness Lead in London employer: Post Office UK
At Post Office Ltd, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and inclusive employer, offering a competitive salary alongside a comprehensive benefits package that includes generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and extensive professional development opportunities. Our vibrant work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, allowing you to make a meaningful impact in the community while growing your career in a dynamic environment located in the heart of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Operational Readiness Lead in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your industry on LinkedIn or at events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or use online platforms. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Operational Readiness Lead in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in IT Service Management and Operational Readiness. We want to see how your skills align with our needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Impact:When detailing your past roles, focus on the impact you made. Use specific examples of how you influenced teams or improved operational practices. We love seeing numbers and results that demonstrate your contributions!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for candidates who embody our values and can bring a Postmaster first mindset. Share your passion for service and how you connect with communities!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our careers page. It’s the easiest way for us to track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Post Office UK
✨Know Your ITIL Inside Out
As an IT Operational Readiness Lead, having a solid grasp of ITIL principles is crucial. Brush up on your ITIL Foundation knowledge and be ready to discuss how you've applied these frameworks in past roles. This will show that you can effectively embed standards and governance models.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Influence
Prepare examples of how you've influenced senior stakeholders in previous projects. Highlight specific instances where your input shaped operational considerations early in the lifecycle. This demonstrates your ability to drive consistent outcomes across cross-functional teams.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Be ready to talk about how you've driven continuous improvement in operational practices. Share insights or feedback you've gathered from live services and how you've used them to enhance service delivery. This shows your commitment to operational excellence.
✨Understand the Post Office Culture
Familiarise yourself with the Post Office's values and behaviours. Be prepared to discuss how you embody a 'Postmaster first' mindset and how you can contribute to their mission. This alignment with their culture can set you apart from other candidates.
