At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented IT team to modernise and elevate the Labour Party's IT function.
- Company: Join one of the UK's most high-profile organisations driving digital transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful role, and the chance to shape the future of IT.
- Why this job: Make a visible impact on a major political organisation while leading innovative IT projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT leadership, service delivery, and managing teams in fast-paced environments.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to work in a collaborative culture.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The Labour Party is seeking an exceptional Head of IT as they embark on a major digital and organisational transformation. The Head of IT will be responsible for rebuilding, modernising, and elevating the IT function at one of the UK’s most high‑profile organisations, driving the systems, processes and ways of working needed to take the Labour Party to the next level. Operating in a high‑pressure, high‑consequence environment — from national campaigns to rapid by‑elections and the demands of Annual Conference — IT underpins every aspect of the Party’s work. With strong ambition and leadership support already in place, they now need a visionary, capable leader who can deliver real transformation. This is a role where your expertise and direction will have a visible, lasting impact across the entire organisation. Though there is a preference for the role to be based in Newcastle, the position can be based out of London.
The Role
- Leading a talented IT team to deliver excellence, reliability, and user confidence, you’ll be responsible for:
- Building service maturity from the ground up, introducing the governance, processes and ITIL frameworks a modern organisation needs
- Modernising their cloud environment, particularly in Azure
- Strengthening their cybersecurity posture in partnership with the NCSC
- Driving responsible adoption of AI, automation and modern technologies
Specifically, you’ll lead on:
- Shaping the Labour Party’s IT strategy and technology roadmap
- Leading on IT risk, security, data protection, and compliance
- Acting as a trusted advisor to senior leaders
- Setting and improving SLAs, processes, and user experience
- Ensuring all staff can access the tools and support they need
- Developing and supporting IT professionals through clear direction and coaching
- Building a culture of collaboration, excellence, and continuous improvement
Infrastructure & Modernisation
- Optimising their Azure environment
- Delivering modernisation projects across cloud, automation and core systems
- Leading high‑tempo event IT operations — especially Annual Conference
- Managing the IT budget
- Managing suppliers, negotiating contracts and ensuring best value
The Person
- As either an experienced Head of IT or ambitious IT Manager looking to make their mark, you will have:
- Led IT through significant change or service maturation
- Proven ability in managing and developing IT teams
- Demonstrable experience in improving IT service delivery and user satisfaction
- Proficiency in overseeing budgets, suppliers and contracts
- Managed a hybrid cloud (preferably Azure) environment
- Experience in political, membership or fast‑paced environments
- Delivery of IT transformation, including AI adoption
Most importantly, you will bring:
- Strong leadership and communication
- Sound judgement and problem‑solving
- A commitment to equality, inclusion and the Labour Party’s values
Interviews will be held face to face in Newcastle on Friday 27th March. If you are interested or to request further information, please contact Paul Newton of our recruitment partner Nigel Wright. paul.newton@nigelwright.com
Head of IT in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: The Labour Party
Contact Detail:
The Labour Party Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of IT in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the IT field, especially those who have experience in political or fast-paced environments. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Labour Party's recent digital initiatives. Show us you’re not just a tech whiz but also passionate about their mission and values. Tailor your examples to demonstrate how you can drive transformation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about times you've led teams through change or improved service delivery. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep your answers clear and impactful.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of IT in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in leading IT transformations and managing teams, as these are key for the Head of IT role. We want to see how your skills align with what the Labour Party is looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to the Labour Party's digital transformation. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Relevant Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to improve IT service delivery and user satisfaction. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes, so don’t shy away from sharing those!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Labour Party
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Labour Party’s current IT landscape and their digital transformation goals. Brush up on your knowledge of Azure, cybersecurity, and ITIL frameworks, as these will be key topics during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading IT teams through change. Be ready to discuss how you've developed team members and fostered a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement in previous roles.
✨Understand the Political Environment
Familiarise yourself with the unique challenges of working in a political or fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss how you would navigate high-pressure situations, especially during critical events like national campaigns or conferences.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about their vision for IT transformation and how they measure success in user satisfaction and service delivery.