IT Operations Manager
Portlaoise, Co. Laois (Onsite)
Full-Time, Permanent
Competitive Remuneration Package & Benefits
We are seeking an experienced IT Operations Manager to lead the delivery of reliable, secure and high‑performing IT services across our business.
Reporting directly to the CFO, this is a hands‑on leadership role responsible for the day‑to‑day operation of IT infrastructure, service delivery, cybersecurity, business systems support and vendor management across multiple sites.
The Opportunity
The IT Operations Manager will ensure the stability, security and availability of Midland Steel's technology environment while driving service excellence and continuous improvement. You will lead the IT Service Desk function, oversee core infrastructure and cloud platforms, manage strategic technology partners, and ensure IT operations support the evolving needs of the business.
This role is ideally suited to a proactive IT leader who combines strong technical expertise with excellent stakeholder management and operational discipline.
IT Service Delivery & Support
Lead and develop the IT Service Desk, ensuring high‑quality support and timely resolution of incidents and service requests.
Embed and maintain ITIL‑aligned Incident, Request, Problem and Change Management processes.
Monitor and improve service performance through KPIs, SLAs, MTTR and service reporting.
Maintain and enhance operational procedures, knowledge bases and technical documentation.
Ensure a consistent and positive end‑user experience across all business locations.
Infrastructure & Operations Management
Oversee the day‑to‑day operation of networks, Microsoft 365, Azure services and Business Central environments.
Manage SonicWall firewalls, VLAN segmentation, VPN connectivity and multi‑site infrastructure.
Ensure effective monitoring, patch management, backup and disaster recovery processes are in place and regularly tested.
Manage hardware, software and licensing lifecycles, including refresh and renewal planning.
Maintain high levels of service availability, resilience and operational performance.
Business Systems Support
Support the ongoing effectiveness of Microsoft 365, Azure and Business Central as critical business platforms.
Act as the primary IT escalation point for business stakeholders.
Coordinate system enhancements, configuration updates and routine maintenance activities.
Work closely with functional teams to resolve technology issues impacting operations.
Cybersecurity & Compliance
Maintain and enforce cybersecurity controls including endpoint protection, patching and access governance.
Support security operations including vulnerability management, endpoint hardening and SOC/SIEM activities.
Ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulatory requirements including ISO standards, NIS2 and GDPR.
Support audit readiness, risk management and business continuity initiatives.
Promote a strong culture of cybersecurity awareness across the organisation.
Vendor & Financial Management
Manage relationships with technology vendors, MSPs and service providers.
Lead vendor evaluations, contract negotiations, renewals and procurement activities.
Monitor vendor performance against agreed service levels and security requirements.
Identify opportunities to optimise IT spend while maintaining service quality and operational effectiveness.
Support IT budgeting, forecasting and cost management activities.
Leadership & Reporting
Provide regular reporting to the CFO on operational performance, service availability, cybersecurity posture and key risks.
Escalate significant incidents, risks and compliance matters appropriately.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across IT operations and service delivery.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration and customer‑focused support within the IT function.
About You
Preferred Experience & Skills
5+ years' experience in IT Operations, Infrastructure Management or IT Service Delivery.
Minimum 2 years' experience leading or supervising IT teams.
Strong hands‑on expertise with Microsoft 365, Azure, networking and multi‑site environments.
Experience administering firewalls, VPNs and network segmentation.
Strong understanding of IT service management principles and operational governance.
Experience managing third‑party vendors, MSPs and technology contracts.
Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices and operational security controls.
Strong analytical, organisational and problem‑solving capabilities.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
Experience supporting Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central or a similar ERP platform.
ITIL Foundation certification.
Experience working within regulated or compliance‑driven environments.
Exposure to ISO frameworks, NIS2 and GDPR requirements.
Why Join Midland Steel?
Competitive remuneration package.
Comprehensive benefits package.
Opportunity to lead IT operations within a growing organisation.
Work closely with senior leadership and influence technology strategy.
Join a business committed to innovation, operational excellence and continuous improvement.
If you're an experienced IT Operations professional looking to make a significant impact in a dynamic and growing organisation, we'd love to hear from you.
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