IT Operations Manager

IT Operations Manager
Reading | £65,000 | Permanent | 5 days office-based initially, reducing to 3 days after probation
We are recruiting for an experienced IT Operations Manager to join a growing organisation based in Reading.
This is a key role within the technology function, responsible for ensuring the organisation's IT services and infrastructure are reliable, secure, efficient and aligned with business needs.
Reporting to the Head of Technology, you will lead day-to-day IT operations, oversee technical support, manage service partners and drive continuous improvement across the IT environment.
The role
You will take ownership of IT service delivery and operational performance, ensuring systems remain stable, secure and available while delivering a high level of service to users across the organisation.
Key responsibilities will include:
* Leading the day-to-day operation of IT infrastructure, systems, networks and end-user services
* Managing and developing technical support capabilities
* Ensuring IT services meet agreed SLAs and performance targets
* Managing incidents, problems, changes and major incidents
* Driving continuous improvement across IT operations and service management
* Maintaining the stability and security of Microsoft 365, Azure, Active Directory/Entra ID and endpoint services
* Overseeing infrastructure upgrades, patching and lifecycle management
* Supporting disaster recovery and business continuity
* Managing third-party IT suppliers and service providers
* Monitoring supplier performance against agreed SLAs
* Working closely with security teams to manage vulnerabilities, risks and compliance
* Producing operational reports and performance dashboards
* Managing operational budgets and identifying opportunities for cost efficiencies
* Leading, coaching and developing members of the IT team
About you
We are looking for an experienced IT Operations, Infrastructure or Service Delivery professional who combines strong technical understanding with excellent people and stakeholder management skills.
You will ideally have:
* Significant experience in IT Operations, Infrastructure Management or Service Delivery
* Experience managing technical support and/or infrastructure teams
* Strong knowledge of Microsoft 365, Azure and Active Directory/Entra ID
* Experience working within an ITIL-based service management environment
* Strong experience managing incidents, problems, changes and operational risk
* Excellent supplier and stakeholder management skills
* Strong analytical and troubleshooting capabilities
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* A degree in IT, Computer Science or equivalent professional experience
Desirable experience includes hybrid cloud environments, cyber security frameworks, digital transformation, AI strategy, DevOps/SRE and relevant ITIL or Microsoft certifications.
What you'll get
* £65,000 salary
* Permanent position
* Reading-based
* 5 days in the office initially, reducing to 3 days per week after successful completion of probation
* Monday-Friday, 7:00am to 4:00pm or 7:30am-4:30pm
* 24 days' holiday + bank holidays
* Opportunity to play a key role in the development and improvement of the IT function
* Supportive environment focused on initiative, learning, collaboration and continuous improvement
Our values
We believe in Deliver, Initiative, Appreciation, Learn and Support.
We want people who take ownership, use their initiative, learn from challenges and work collaboratively to deliver great results.
If you're an experienced IT Operations Manager, IT Infrastructure Manager or Service Delivery Manager looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you.

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