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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage IT operations and enhance user services in a hands-on role.
- Company: Join a leading government and defence organisation in London.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, hybrid work model, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with a focus on professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by improving IT systems and user experiences.
- Qualifications: ITIL certification and experience with Microsoft 365 and service management tools.
Location: London (Hybrid - minimum 3 days onsite)
Start Date: ASAP
Duration: 3 months (with potential extension)
Day Rate: £450 per day (Inside IR35)
The Opportunity
Sanderson Government & Defence are supporting a client in their search for an experienced IT Manager to take ownership of the day-to-day operation, reliability, and continuous improvement of their IT systems and end-user services. This is a hands-on contract role where you will act as the primary interface between IT and business users, ensuring technology enables productivity and that issues are resolved efficiently and professionally.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage IT support services and oversee ticketing workflows
- Ensure effective prioritisation and resolution of support requests
- Maintain and improve the organisation's IT estate, focusing on performance and reliability
- Act as the key point of contact between IT and business stakeholders
- Communicate clearly with users, balancing responsiveness with structured prioritisation
- Identify and implement continuous improvements across IT services and processes
Skills & Experience Required
- ITIL certified (or strong working knowledge of ITIL frameworks)
- Proven experience managing Microsoft 365 environments (Teams, SharePoint, Entra ID)
- Experience with Jira or similar service management tools
- Broad IT knowledge, particularly across SaaS-based applications
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving capabilities
- Proactive, self-starting approach with the ability to work independently
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
About You
You are a confident and capable IT professional who thrives in a hands-on environment. You bring strong technical judgement, a structured approach to service management, and a commitment to delivering a high-quality user experience.
Reasonable Adjustments
Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients. If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.
IT Manager employer: Sanderson Government & Defence
Contact Detail:
Sanderson Government & Defence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the IT field and let them know you're on the lookout for an IT Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a great opportunity.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical skills and understanding the latest trends in IT management. Be ready to discuss how you've improved IT systems in past roles – real examples will make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Check out our website for openings that suit your skills, and tailor your approach to each one.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the IT Manager role. Highlight your experience with Microsoft 365, ITIL frameworks, and any relevant tools like Jira. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this hands-on role. Share specific examples of how you've improved IT services in the past, and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As the main point of contact between IT and business users, clear communication is key. In your application, demonstrate how you've effectively communicated with stakeholders in previous roles. We love seeing those soft skills in action!
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, it shows you're keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sanderson Government & Defence
✨Know Your ITIL Inside Out
Since the role requires ITIL certification or strong knowledge of ITIL frameworks, make sure you brush up on key concepts and processes. Be ready to discuss how you've applied ITIL principles in your previous roles, especially in managing IT support services.
✨Showcase Your Microsoft 365 Expertise
This position demands experience with Microsoft 365 environments. Prepare specific examples of how you've managed Teams, SharePoint, or Entra ID in past projects. Highlight any improvements you made that enhanced user productivity or system reliability.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
As a hands-on IT Manager, you'll need strong troubleshooting capabilities. Think of a few challenging scenarios you've faced and how you resolved them. This will show your proactive approach and ability to work independently under pressure.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Effective communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing technical issues with non-technical stakeholders. Being able to balance responsiveness with structured prioritisation will set you apart.