Head of IT Operations Job Description
Overview
We have partnered with a global client to hire an experienced Head of IT Operations to lead its IT operations function. This role is responsible for the strategic and day-to-day management of critical infrastructure, service delivery, and security operations.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead and mentor the IT Operations and Service Desk teams, developing and executing strategies that enhance operational effectiveness, resilience, and scalability.
2. Act as a senior leader across IT, contributing to long-term technology planning and innovation.
3. Oversee all aspects of hybrid infrastructure including data centres, networks, cloud platforms (Azure, AWS), and Microsoft 365.
4. Drive automation and modernisation initiatives to support performance and cost efficiency.
5. Ensure system uptime, availability, and reliability through robust architecture and proactive operations.
6. Define, implement, and continuously improve ITIL-aligned service delivery processes.
7. Promote a culture of accountability and continuous service improvement.
8. Lead day-to-day security operations and incident response, ensuring compliance with applicable standards (e.g., ISO 27001, GDPR) and internal policies.
9. Manage business continuity, including disaster recovery planning and testing.
10. Own and manage the IT Operations budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and value delivery.
11. Lead procurement, contract negotiations, and ongoing vendor performance management.
12. Oversee the design and evolution of infrastructure and platform architecture, ensuring architectural decisions support business goals, security standards, and future scalability.
Candidate Requirements
* Minimum 15 years in IT, including 10+ years in senior operations or infrastructure leadership roles.
* Deep experience in managing hybrid (on-premise and cloud) environments at scale.
* Strong understanding of IT service management frameworks (ITIL) and security operations.
* Experience with large budgets and complex vendor ecosystems.
* Proven leadership capabilities with excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Desirable professional certifications such as ITIL, CISSP, PMP, or Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect.
* Exposure to modern IT delivery models (DevOps, CI/CD, infrastructure as code).
What This Role Offers
* Leadership of a critical function within a modern, forward-thinking organisation.
* The opportunity to drive innovation, stability, and growth in a fast-evolving technology landscape.
* A collaborative environment with flexibility and a strong focus on continuous improvement.
* A hybrid working model supporting both autonomy and in-person collaboration.