Overview
Head of IT role at City Education Group (City Colleges).
The successful candidate will join the leadership team to manage, lead, and evolve all aspects of the Group's information technology systems.
The role focuses on leveraging educational technologies to enhance digital learning environments and support academic delivery, student success, administration, and institutional growth.
Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
Develop and implement the company's IT strategy in alignment with academic and operational goals.
Advise senior leadership on digital transformation and emerging technologies.
Collaborate with the Director of Learning Technologies to drive innovation in blended learning and AI in education.
IT Infrastructure & Systems
Oversee the implementation, integration, and ongoing optimization of the Student Information System (SIS).
Manage networks (wired/wireless), servers (on-premises and cloud), and end-user devices (PCs, Macs, tablets, AV equipment).
Ensure uptime, performance, and scalability of IT services.
Cybersecurity & Data Protection
Implement and monitor security protocols (firewalls, antivirus, MFA, etc.).
Ensure compliance with data protection laws (e.g., GDPR).
Conduct risk assessments and manage incident response plans.
IT Support & Service Delivery
Lead the IT support team and set/monitor SLAs to ensure timely support for staff and students.
Oversee asset management (device lifecycle, repairs, upgrades).
Educational Technology
Support academic staff in adopting and integrating digital learning tools (VLEs such as Moodle/Canvas, Microsoft Teams for Education, adaptive learning tools, AI-driven platforms, and online assessment systems).
Oversee systems for online exams, e-portfolios, and lecture capture.
Ensure effective deployment and integration of educational technologies across second-level, third-level, and professional learning programmes.
Lead initiatives to enhance digital pedagogy, student engagement, and assessment through technology; drive digital literacy for staff and students.
Management & Leadership
Lead the IT team: recruitment, training, performance management, and delegation.
Develop IT policies (acceptable use, BYOD, password policies, etc.).
Foster a proactive, service-focused IT culture.
Budgeting & Procurement
Plan and manage the IT department's annual budget.
Lead procurement of hardware, software, and IT services; evaluate vendors and negotiate contracts.
Project Management
Lead key IT projects; identify opportunities for external funding (sponsorships, grants, partnerships) to support IT initiatives.
Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field.
A relevant professional certification (e.g., ITIL, Microsoft Certified, Cisco, CompTIA, PRINCE2, or AWS) is required.
A postgraduate qualification (e.g., MSc IT Management or MBA with a tech focus) is an advantage.
Minimum 7+ years of experience in IT management or leadership, with at least 3 years in a senior IT role.
Experience in whole or in part would be advantageous.
Ideally significant experience in the education sector, particularly in managing and implementing education technologies.
Proven track record of deploying and supporting platforms such as Student Information Systems, VLEs (Moodle, Canvas), online exam systems, and digital learning tools.
Strong technical and commercial acumen with a history of delivering cost-effective IT solutions and leading digital transformation initiatives.
Advanced knowledge of education-related platforms (MIS/SIS, VLEs like Moodle/Canvas) and blended learning tools is preferred.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills; ability to evaluate complex technical issues and propose effective solutions.
Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and develop an IT team across multiple sites or departments.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to translate technical information for non-technical stakeholders.
Ability to manage competing priorities, oversee multiple projects, and adapt to changing institutional needs or technologies.
Collaborative, solutions-focused team player with a strong service delivery mindset.
What We Offer
Competitive salary package (commensurate with experience).
Comprehensive training and professional development opportunities.
A dynamic and supportive work environment in a growing education group.
A collaborative and forward-thinking leadership team dedicated to excellence and innovation.
Line Management
The successful candidate will report to the Chief Executive.
Job Details
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Salary Range: €70K per annum depending on experience
Minimum 4 days a week in the office
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