At a Glance
- Tasks: Build and manage IT systems for our UK and international offices.
- Company: Join a dynamic tech company with a global presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25 days leave, and enhanced parental leave.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team that values diversity.
- Why this job: Shape the future of IT operations and make a global impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT operations and strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Overview
We are seeking a proactive and experienced IT Operations Specialist to establish and manage IT infrastructure, systems, and support services for our growing UK operation and our expanding network of international offices (including locations such as Dubai, New York, and South Africa). As our first dedicated IT hire in the UK, this role requires someone who is both hands-on and strategic — capable of building systems from the ground up, delivering excellent end-user support, and playing a key role in shaping our global IT foundation. You\'ll act as the bridge between our UK and international teams, working closely with our overseas parent company to align systems and ensure smooth tech operations across locations.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Establish and maintain IT systems, devices, user accounts, and software platforms across UK and international offices.
- Design and manage secure network architecture (VLANs, Active Directory, DNS/DHCP configurations).
- Implement and oversee endpoint and enterprise security measures, enforce security policies, and ensure up-to-date compliance with regulatory standards.
- Administer and optimize the Microsoft 365 ecosystem (SharePoint, Entra, Azure AD, Exchange).
- Provide responsive 1st and 2nd line support for employees across multiple time zones.
- Lead consistent IT onboarding and offboarding processes globally.
- Develop and enforce scalable IT policies, standards, and documentation.
- Ensure systems comply with UK and international standards.
- Manage vendors, software licenses, asset lifecycle, and IT budgets.
- Evaluate and implement emerging technologies that improve performance, security, or scalability.
- Deliver IT reporting and analytics on infrastructure health, usage trends, and compliance status.
- Act as the IT liaison between UK operations and the overseas IT leadership team.
Qualifications and experience
- Proven experience in IT operations or generalist roles, especially in multi-location or fast-growing environments.
- Comfortable working independently in a standalone or startup-like capacity.
- Solid hands-on experience in infrastructure, networking, cybersecurity, and cloud tools (especially Microsoft 365 and Azure).
- Strong grasp of IT compliance frameworks.
- Familiarity with enterprise tools such as ERP, asset management systems, or helpdesk platforms.
- Experience with IT vendor management and cross-border support coordination.
- Excellent problem-solving, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Analytical mindset with an eye for process improvement and risk mitigation.
- Adaptable and forward-thinking, with an interest in emerging technologies and digital transformation.
Education and Certification
- Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical & Electronics Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Experience in IT, including experience in a leadership or management role.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate
- ISC² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) or other relevant cybersecurity or cloud certifications
Benefits
- Flexible, hybrid working environment
- 25 days annual leave
- Enhanced parental leave
We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all our employees.
Seniority level
- Not Applicable
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Information Technology
Industries
- Technology, Information and Media and Wholesale Raw Farm Products
Information Technology Operations Specialist employer: SFI Agri Commodities
As an IT Operations Specialist at our innovative company, you'll thrive in a dynamic and supportive work culture that values your expertise and encourages professional growth. With a flexible, hybrid working environment and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we offer 25 days of annual leave and enhanced parental leave, ensuring you have the work-life balance needed to excel in your role. Join us in shaping our global IT foundation while enjoying the unique opportunity to collaborate with international teams across exciting locations like Dubai and New York.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Information Technology Operations Specialist
✨Join the IT Consultancy Buzz
Get involved in local or virtual IT consultancy meetups and forums. This is where we can rub shoulders with industry professionals, get insights into what SFI Agri Commodities values, and even spot unadvertised opportunities. Don't miss out on these chances to make a name for ourselves in the IT world!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a personal project or case study relevant to the challenges SFI Agri Commodities might face. Use platforms like GitHub or Medium to share your findings. This not only demonstrates our consulting skills but shows a proactive attitude, making us stand out from the crowd when applying for that full-time gig.
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Follow and engage with the relevant thought leaders and influencers in IT consultancy on LinkedIn. Share insightful content and join discussions to gain visibility. A well-placed comment or shared article could catch the attention of someone at SFI Agri Commodities!
✨Direct Apply to SFI Agri Commodities
Let's not forget to apply directly through the SFI Agri Commodities website! Tailor your application to showcase our understanding of their consulting style and how we can contribute to their projects. A personalised approach can make a huge difference in landing that full-time position!
We think you need these skills to ace Information Technology Operations Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In IT consulting, it's all about problem-solving, so make sure your CV highlights your analytical skills and any relevant projects you've tackled. Mention specific technologies or methodologies you've used to resolve issues or improve processes; this shows you can think critically and deliver results, which is vital for us at SFI Agri Commodities.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Certifications like ITIL, PMP, or even specific tech stack qualifications can really make you stand out. Make sure to include these in your CV, as they not only demonstrate your expertise but also your commitment to staying current in the field. We love seeing candidates who are proactive about their professional development!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at SFI Agri Commodities. Share stories about your experiences in IT consulting, and how they shaped your desire to join our team. Mention why you’re excited about this particular role, and how you see yourself contributing to our projects.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We're all busy, so make sure your application is easy to read. Use bullet points for key achievements, and don’t overload us with jargon. A clean, professional layout goes a long way. Remember, the clearer your application, the more likely we are to invite you in for an interview!
How to prepare for a job interview at SFI Agri Commodities
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Skills
For an IT consulting role, be ready to demonstrate your technical prowess. You might face questions on systems integration, cloud technologies, or even troubleshooting specific software. If you have experience with tools like AWS, Azure, or even specific programming languages, make sure you can talk about them fluently.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Approach
IT consulting is all about solving problems for clients. Think about how you can illustrate your approach to a past challenge using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). It's a great way to show how you tackle complex issues and come up with effective solutions.
✨Know the Business Impact of IT Solutions
When discussing your experiences, focus not just on the tech solutions you implemented, but also on their business impact. Employers want to see that you can connect IT with organisational goals. Prep examples that highlight how your tech contributions improved efficiency or reduced costs for past clients or projects.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Since IT consulting often involves teamwork and client interactions, expect behavioural questions that assess your interpersonal skills. Be prepared with examples that demonstrate your adaptability, communication skills, and how you handle client feedback. Before the interview, think of situations where you worked closely with clients to create effective IT strategies or changes.