Head of IT

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Head of Information Technology to lead, shape and evolve the IT function for a growing manufacturer and retailer with international operations. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, you'll have the opportunity to build and mature the technology function, ensuring IT becomes a true commercial enabler as the business continues its ambitious growth journey.

Location: Trafford Park, Manchester (3 days onsite)

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Head of Information Technology to lead, shape and evolve the IT function for a growing manufacturer and retailer with international operations. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, you'll have the opportunity to build and mature the technology function, ensuring IT becomes a true commercial enabler as the business continues its ambitious growth journey.

This is a broad leadership role that combines strategic direction with hands-on involvement where needed. You'll influence technology strategy, modernise infrastructure, strengthen cyber security, improve business systems and help introduce new technologies, including AI, while developing a high-performing IT team. If you're looking for a role where you can genuinely leave your mark and build an IT function that supports the next phase of business growth, this is an outstanding opportunity.

As Head of IT, you'll be responsible for defining and delivering the technology roadmap, ensuring systems, infrastructure and services support the wider business strategy. Working closely with senior leadership, you'll drive improvements across service delivery, security, data management and business systems while creating the foundations for a scalable, resilient IT function.

You'll:

• Develop and deliver the IT strategy aligned to business objectives.
• Build and mature the IT function, establishing standards, governance and best practices.
• Lead, develop and mentor a multi-site IT team, creating resilience and reducing key-person dependency.
• Oversee IT operations, infrastructure, cloud services, networking and end-user technology.
• Own cyber security, risk management, compliance and data protection, supporting certifications including ISO 27001 and GDPR.
• Partner with the business to maximise value from ERP and other core business systems, improving data quality and reporting.
• Lead IT governance, prioritising technology initiatives and managing demand across the business.
• Manage key technology suppliers, contracts, SLAs, licensing and budgets to ensure excellent service and value.
• Identify opportunities to automate processes, improve efficiency and adopt emerging technologies, including AI.

You'll be an experienced IT leader who enjoys balancing strategic planning with hands-on leadership. You'll have a proven track record of developing IT functions, leading technical teams and delivering technology that supports commercial growth.

We're looking for someone with:

• Experience leading an IT function within a multi-site organisation.
• Strong technical knowledge across infrastructure, cloud technologies, networking and business systems.
• Experience developing IT strategy and driving technology transformation.
• A background in cyber security, risk management, GDPR and supporting security frameworks such as ISO 27001.
• Experience managing suppliers, MSPs, contracts, SLAs and IT budgets.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to communicate effectively from technical teams through to senior leadership.
• A collaborative leadership style with the willingness to be hands-on when required.

This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of an evolving IT function and genuinely shape its future. You'll have the autonomy to influence technology decisions, build capability, modernise systems and help create an IT environment that enables long-term business success.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates