Head of IT

Role: Head of IT
Location: Lichfield, Staffordshire (3 days per week on site)
Salary: £70k + 15% Bonus + Bupa, Pension

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head of IT to join a successful and fast-moving FMCG/manufacturing organisation, taking ownership of the IT function and playing a key role in its continued development.

This is a broad and influential role, combining IT leadership with operational responsibility, managing a small IT team while working closely with their France based Group IT and senior stakeholders across the wider business.

The organisation is going through a period of change and development, with a number of significant technology projects planned, making this an excellent opportunity for an IT leader who enjoys being close to the business and making a tangible difference.

The Role

The Head of IT will take responsibility for the day-to-day running and future development of the IT function across three sites - Lichfield, Wigan and Colchester, ensuring technology supports the operational and strategic needs of the business.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading and developing and internal IT team of one IT technician supported by an excellent and long-standing MSP.
• Developing the IT strategy with the Finance Director, ensuring it aligns with wider business objectives.
• Managing IT budgets, suppliers, third-party relationships and technology investment.
• Overseeing IT projects from planning through to implementation, balancing operational and strategic priorities.
• Supporting the ongoing development and upgrade of the organisation's ERP systems, including Microsoft Dynamics.
• Working closely with key users and business stakeholders to ensure systems continue to meet business requirements.
• Managing and maintaining core IT infrastructure, networks, servers, Microsoft technologies, Wi-Fi, telephony and end-user services.
• Ensuring appropriate security, backup and disaster recovery arrangements are in place.
• Working closely with Group IT and Group Cyber Security on wider technology initiatives and security requirements.
• Managing major incidents and complex technical issues through to resolution.
• Overseeing third-party suppliers and ensuring they deliver against agreed requirements.
• Supporting IT operations across multiple UK sites and working with colleagues across the wider Group.
• Identifying opportunities to improve systems, processes and the overall IT service.

What are we looking for?

You will be an experienced IT Manager or Head of IT with a strong understanding of both technology and business operations.

You will ideally have:

• 5+ years' experience in an IT management position.
• Experience within FMCG, manufacturing, logistics or another operationally fast-moving environment.
• You must be based within a commutable distance of Lichfield to be considered for this role.
• Experience managing a small IT support/technology team.
• Strong knowledge of ERP systems, ideally Microsoft Dynamics or a similar enterprise platform.
• Experience managing IT projects and delivering technology change.
• A good understanding of infrastructure, Microsoft technologies, networks and enterprise IT systems.
• Strong commercial awareness, including budget and supplier management.
• The ability to operate at both strategic and operational levels.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• A proactive, hands-on approach with the ability to work in a fast-moving environment.
• The ability to work effectively with Group IT functions and stakeholders across multiple locations.
• A full UK driving licence, as some limited travel between sites will be required.
• Any French language skills would be welcome but are not a requirement.

The Environment

This is an organisation where IT is closely connected to the day-to-day operation of the business. With processing, logistics and production at its heart, the successful candidate will need to understand the importance of resilient systems, responsive IT support and technology that keeps the operation moving.

There is also a strong international element, with the role working alongside a wider Group IT function and access to additional support and expertise, including French-speaking colleagues.

Coburg Banks Limited is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.