Head of IT

Head of IT

Department : IT Office

Reports to : College Bursar

Salary : 61,696 to 65,336 per annum

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays. One week must be taken at Christmas and the remainder to be taken at such time or times as shall be mutually convenient and agreed in advance with the Bursar.
• Enrolment in the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).
• The College provides lunch free of cost.
• Other benefits include access to an Employee Assistance Programme and the College cycle and bus pass schemes.

The Head of IT is responsible for providing comprehensive IT services to support academics, staff, students and visitors across the College while managing the institution’s computer systems and network infrastructure. This role demands adaptability to the rapid evolution of both hardware and software technologies alongside the growing and diverse needs of the user population. Given the dynamic nature of the IT landscape the responsibilities of this position will evolve continuously.

A flexible working approach is essential particularly during critical periods such as peak academic times, system upgrades and emergency support needs.

• IT Support:
  Providing day‑to‑day support to all user groups – staff, students, academics and visitors – through troubleshooting helpdesk services and ensuring the smooth operation of all systems.
• System and Network Management:
  Overseeing the administration of computer systems, servers and network infrastructure to ensure optimal performance, security and uptime.
• Strategic Planning and Implementation:
  Planning, executing and managing IT projects, system upgrades and ensuring that the College’s technology infrastructure remains current and capable of meeting future demands.
• Collaboration with Other Departments:
  Working closely with academic and administrative departments to understand their specific needs and ensuring that IT resources align with institutional goals and objectives.
• Flexibility and Crisis Management:
  Adapting to changes in the academic calendar, emergencies or periods of peak usage. This includes ensuring IT services are maintained during critical times such as exams, deadlines or unforeseen issues.
• Security:
  Implementing and managing robust security protocols to protect systems, networks and data. This includes overseeing firewalls, encryption and access control measures.

• A relevant degree or equivalent experience in a similar IT role.
• Strong analytical skills to assess both technical and institutional needs, providing optimal solutions.
• Excellent planning and decision‑making abilities with a capacity to prioritise effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proven experience in implementing, managing and monitoring network and computer security measures.
• A flexible professional approach to work with exceptional attention to detail.
• Experience with IT procurement including the selection and purchase of hardware and software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to non‑technical users.
• Extensive experience with TCP/IP networking including the management and configuration of switches, wireless access points, VLANs, DNS and DHCP.
• Solid experience in deploying and supporting server and desktop operating systems including Windows, Linux and macOS.
• Strong experience with the management of Windows Servers, Active Directory and Group Policy.
• Familiarity with virtualization technologies and practices, ideally VMware.
• Experience in administering and managing SQL database servers.
• Proficiency in scripting languages such as Power Shell.
• Advanced knowledge of Ethernet and fibre optical cabling technologies.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, adjusting to diverse work situations.
• Knowledge of mobile operating systems such as Android and iOS.

• Experience working with T‑SQL.
• Familiarity with Word Press CMS.
• Experience working with MS SharePoint and MS Teams.
• Experience in maintaining secure web services (e.g. SSL certification).
• Project management skills.
• Strong man‑management skills and experience leading an IT…