Head of IT

Overview

Salary:
Between £80,000 - £100,000 per annum (dependent on experience and qualifications)

About Us

At Outcomes First Group, we believe every child can thrive when given the right environment for success. As one of the world’s leading providers in our sector, we deliver exceptional, research-led education tailored to each individual, with smaller class sizes and personalised learning plans.

Our vision is to empower every child with a world-class education that nurtures potential and inspires lifelong learning. Our mission is to unlock that potential through personalised learning and opportunity. And our promise is simple: we listen, we work together, and we are accountable to one another to make the remarkable happen.

The Role:

We are looking for a Head of IT to join our IT team. As Head of IT you would be the senior leader of Outcomes First Group Technology Function. Our Head of IT ensures the IT Teams operate in accordance with the governance and policy framework in place across the organisation, following approved budgets. The post-holder plays a critical role in aligning IT resources with the company’s overall goals and objectives, supporting BAU activities and ensuring the organisation’s technology infrastructure supports its business operations and growth.

IT serves as a stabilising force across the Outcomes First Group, ensuring we operate and deliver our educational services without technology issues getting in the way. The technology used in our schools provides greater accessibility and flexibility, enabling our students to learn at their own pace and gain from virtual experiences. IT systems facilitate the management of student records, course materials, and assessments, streamlining administrative processes, reducing paperwork, and increasing record security.

Overall, IT ensures the operational efficiency of Outcomes First Group through reliable internet, phones systems and printing services as well as supplying all IT equipment to our schools and care services. Support is provided by a team of engineers based in Bolton underpinned by additional engineers and suppliers around the country. Robust monitoring and proactive support mean we often fix things before our schools are open.

Security is part of our DNA with Cyber Essentials defining the base level at which we operate. IT plays a significant part in improving the lives of our pupils, their families, and the local communities through a relentless focus on wellbeing and learning.

We would consider applications from experienced Head of IT and Operations.

What you'll do:

• Oversee the planning, design and delivery of technology solutions.
• Ensure the timely and efficient execution of technology projects while maintaining high standards of quality and reliability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate technology solutions into business processes.
• Manage and optimise OFG’s technology infrastructure, including networks, servers, databases, and cloud services.
• Ensure scalability, security, and reliability of technology systems to support current and future business needs.
• Lead & manage a high-performing technology team, including IT Operations, Business Systems Management and Technical Project Delivery.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning within the technology organization.
• Identify and mitigate potential technology-related risks and security threats, with a high level of understanding of security protocol and infrastructure.
• Implement and enforce security best practices to safeguard the organization's data, systems, and intellectual property.
• Evaluate and select technology vendors, partners, and service providers to support the organization's technological needs.
• Manage relationships with external technology providers and negotiate contracts and agreements.
• Develop and manage the technology budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and cost-effective technology solutions.
• Prioritise technology initiatives based on business impact and strategic goals.
• Communication and Stakeholder Engagement:
  Always ensure compliance with cyber security standards set by the Group Board and customers.

What we're looking…