Information Technology Manager

IT Manager – Lapland Group

Company Overview

Lapland is a family entertainment group redefining what it means to celebrate Christmas.

Founded in the UK in 2007 by Mike and Alison Battle, we began with a simple but powerful purpose: to honour the wonder of childhood.

Inspired by a desire to create the Christmas experience they wanted for their own four boys, they reimagined the Father Christmas story through original storytelling, exceptional creative design and unforgettable guest experiences.

Today, the Lapland Group spans Live, Store, Studios and the Lapland Foundation. Our immersive experiences in Ascot and Manchester, featuring Hollywood set design and the very best of the West End, have welcomed almost two million believers. Our rapidly growing product business enables families around the world to bring a little Lapland wonder into their homes and our world-class studio brings the Lapland story world to life through audio, animation, books, films and more. Alongside this, the Lapland Foundation carries out the work of Father Christmas, bringing moments of wonder to children who need them most.

So much of our success has always been built on extraordinary people who share our purpose, embrace collaboration, and hold themselves to the very highest standards of effort and excellence.

If that sounds like you, we'd love you to join us on our mission to make Christmas wondrous in everything we do.

Location: Head Office, Covent Garden, WC2E 9HE

Role Overview:

We’re looking for a proactive Systems Administrator to own the day-to-day reliability, security, and performance of our IT environment. You’ll administer and support Microsoft 365 and core Windows services (including Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS/DHCP), while providing responsive end-user support and partnering with internal teams and external suppliers. The focus is on keeping systems stable and secure, improving processes, and ensuring colleagues can work smoothly with minimal downtime.

The IT Manager role sits within the business as a one person team. This role is part of the shared resource department and is primarily a delivery-focused function. The position does not involve people management or responsibility for leading a standalone IT team.

The role will also oversee IT infrastructure and hardware across all Lapland UK offices and show locations, supporting reliable operations across the business and its live shows.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deploy software, configure user accounts and groups, and manage operating system and Group Policy settings across the organisation.
• Install, configure, maintain, and monitor servers, workstations, software, hardware, network, and application infrastructure.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve hardware, software, network, and system-related issues.
• Ensure secure storage, backup, recovery, and integrity of organisational data.
• Monitor system performance and proactively identify opportunities for improvement.
• Replace, upgrade, and maintain hardware and software components as required.
• Implement and maintain cybersecurity best practices, including patch management, endpoint protection, and access controls.
• Administer Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, Teams, SharePoint, and Entra ID.
• Maintain Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Group Policy, and user account administration.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, standard operating procedures, and knowledge base articles.
• Liaise with external IT service providers and vendors to resolve incidents and deliver infrastructure projects.
• Maintain the performance and reliability of IT infrastructure, including network connectivity (wired and wireless), servers, storage, and security systems.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of new IT infrastructure, including network upgrades and expansions.
• Manage and maintain company hardware including laptops, desktops, mobile devices, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and non-show audio-visual equipment.
• Procure new hardware and software as needed, ensuring compatibility and cost-effectiveness.
• Manage the deployment and maintenance of laptops and mobile devices for employees.
• Oversee the installation and maintenance of audio-visual equipment at non-show locations and offices.
• Provide timely and effective technical support to all Lapland UK staff and manage and respond to IT helpdesk requests.
• Train staff on the use of new hardware and software.
• Stay up-to-date on the latest IT trends and technologies and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency.
• Negotiate contracts and service level agreements with IT vendors and service providers, and ensure vendors meet agreed performance expectations.

Required Experience:

• Minimum of 2-4 years' experience in a Systems Administrator or similar IT support role.
• Proven experience (5+ years) as an IT Manager or similar role, ideally within the entertainment or events industry.
• Proven experience administering Windows Server environments, including Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, and DHCP.
• Experience managing Microsoft 365, including Exchange Online, Teams, SharePoint, and Entra ID (Azure Active Directory).
• Experience with endpoint management, patch management, and security solutions.
• Hands-on experience with backup and disaster recovery solutions.
• Experience troubleshooting hardware, software, and network issues in a business environment.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure and/or AWS is desirable.
• Experience working with IT service management (ITSM) tools and following change management processes.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritise workload, manage multiple support requests, and work effectively under pressure.
• Experience managing and maintaining a variety of IT hardware, including eCommerce, POS, CRM systems, and audio-visual equipment.

Skills / Knowledge:

• Excellent troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with internal stakeholders and external IT partners.
• Strong documentation and organisational skills.
• Knowledge of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPNs, firewalls, and switching).
• Experience with PowerShell or other scripting languages would be advantageous.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and best practices.
• Commitment to maintaining secure, reliable, and high-performing IT systems.
• Strong understanding of network infrastructure, server management, and IT security.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to support and influence stakeholders across the organisation.

Success Looks Like

• Established a robust and reliable IT infrastructure across all Lapland office locations.
• Implemented a proactive maintenance plan for all IT hardware.
• Reduced IT downtime and improved staff productivity.
• Developed strong relationships with key IT vendors.
• Enhanced the IT security strategy.
• Successful first line support for the Head Office team
• Provided support for the launch of new LaplandUK shows, Stores, Ecomm, Sales and Content Channels
• Successful handover from previous IT Manager

Life at Lapland:

At LaplandUK, we believe in the magic of collaboration, a steadfast commitment to excellence, and a team that's always willing to roll up their sleeves and get involved. Working with us means being part of a dynamic environment where collaboration brings out the best in everyone, diverse talents converge, and innovation thrives. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every team member is dedicated to achieving the highest standards, contributing to a workplace culture that values continuous improvement and outstanding results.

We're not just looking for employees; we want people who are excited to get involved, embrace challenges, and bring a hands-on approach to their work, creating a workplace full of positivity and

collective success. Overall, working at LaplandUK offers a chance to be part of something truly special, where the wonder of childhood is celebrated by a team dedicated to making memories for over 40,000 families each year.

Passion for the Mission.

We are in service to belief. We understand the importance of what we do and its legacy.

One Company

We only succeed together. We are a positive and caring group of people who embrace developing Lapland and ourselves.

Driven to Deliver Excellence

Belief is in the detail. Powered by our purpose we challenge and innovate to exceed expectations in everything we do.

Salary – £55,000 - £60,000 per annum

Benefits:

• Flexible hybrid working (3 days in London, 2 days at home)
• Dog friendly office
• 22 days annual leave, with one additional day added per year until it reaches 30
• Contribution towards further development and training
• Code Hospitality App
• Vitality private healthcare scheme (after qualifying period)
• Monthly team social events

Applicants must be authorised to work in the United Kingdom without the need for visa sponsorship.Lapland reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any time. Due to the high number of applications being received, we may not be able to respond to every applicant.

Lapland is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that seeks to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We therefore encourage applications from all genders, races, religions, ages and sexual orientations, as well as parents, veterans, people living with disabilities, and any other groups that could bring diverse perspectives to our business.