Interim IT Director

Full Job Description

At Outcomes First Group, we work smarter so you can spend more time doing the things you love!

At OFG, we are on a mission to ensure our colleagues have an amazing work/life balance!

Job Title: Interim IT Director

Hours: 37.5 hours per week, 6 month Fixed Term Contract

Location: Bolton

Salary: £80,000 - £100,000 per annum (pro rata) dependent on experience and skills

We are looking for a Interim IT Director to join our IT team.

We would consider applications from experienced Head of IT and Operations.

As IT director you would be the senior leader of Outcomes First Group Technology Function. Our IT Director makes sure the IT Teams are operating in accordance with the governance and policy framework in place across the organisation following approved budgets. The post-holder plays a critical role in aligning IT resources with the companies overall goals and objectives, supporting BAU activities and ensuring the organisations technology infrastructure supports its business operations and growth.

IT serves as a stabilising force across the Outcomes First Group, ensuring we operate and deliver our educational services without technology issues getting in the way. The technology used in our schools provides greater accessibility and flexibility, enabling our students to learn at their own pace and gain from virtual experiences. IT systems facilitate the management of student records, course materials, and assessments, streamlining administrative processes, reducing paperwork, and increasing record security..

Overall, IT ensures the operational efficiency of Outcomes First Group through reliable internet, phones systems and printing services as well as supplying all IT equipment to our schools and care services. Support is provided by a team of engineers based in Bolton underpinned by additional engineers and suppliers around the country. Robust monitoring and proactive support means we often fix things before our schools are open. Security is part of our DNA with Cyber Essentials defining the base level at which we operate. IT plays a significant part in improving the lives of our pupils, their families, and the local communities through a relentless focus on wellbeing and learning

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the planning, design and delivery of technology solutions.
• Ensure the timely and efficient execution of technology projects while maintaining high standards of quality and reliability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate technology solutions into business processes.
• Manage and optimise OFG’s technology infrastructure, including networks, servers, databases, and cloud services.
• Ensure scalability, security, and reliability of technology systems to support current and future business needs.
• Lead & manage a high-performing technology team, including IT Operations, Business Systems Management and Technical Project Delivery.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning within the technology organization.
• Identify and mitigate potential technology-related risks and security threats, with a high level of understanding of security protocol and infrastructure.
• Implement and enforce security best practices to safeguard the organization’s data, systems, and intellectual property.
• Evaluate and select technology vendors, partners, and service providers to support the organization’s technological needs.
• Manage relationships with external technology providers and negotiate contracts and agreements.
• Develop and manage the technology budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and cost-effective technology solutions.
• Prioritise technology initiatives based on business impact and strategic goals.
• Communication and Stakeholder Engagement:
• Always ensure compliance with cyber security standards set by the Group Board and customers

Standard Responsibilities:

There are a number of standard duties and responsibilities that all employees, irrespective of their role and level of seniority within OFG Group are expected to be familiar with and adhere to.

• Leads, manages, and participates in an annual performance review programme
• Works, always, in accordance with the policies and procedures of the OFG Group and statutory regulations applicable to the Group.
• Observes, always, strict rules of confidentiality appropriate to the post.
• To always comply with the requirements of Health and Safety Regulations to ensure their own wellbeing and that of their colleagues.
• OFG Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all employees to work in accordance with this.

Undertakes other duties as assigned

Experience, Skills and Knowledge:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant technical field (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering) is typically required; advanced degrees or relevant certifications are a plus.
• Proven track record of leading IT Teams in a multi-site environment preferably with a backgroup in education.
• Extensive experience in managing technology teams and driving complex projects to successful completion.
• Good understanding of current and emerging technologies, as well as their potential business applications.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Deliver focused, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Deep knowledge of cybersecurity best practices and risk management.
• Experience with budget management and resource allocation.
• Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing technology landscape and drive organizational change.
• History of successful delivery of efficiency and standards improvements
• Track record of maintaining strong relationships at all levels
• Track record of delivering high standards of customer service
• Used to work with ROI measurement & outcomes analysis.
• Motivational and structured people leader
• Proven track record of continuously improving performance and standards across multiple teams.
• Brings external best practice knowledge to the function.
• Driven and self-motivated
• Confident presenter and influencer of others

If you feel this role is appropriate for you, then we would love to hear from you. Please don’t hesitate to contact claire.howarth@ofgl.uk for more information

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Winner UK Best Workplaces for Women™ Awards 2023, for the past 3 years.

Winner UK Great Place to Work™ Awards, for the past 4 years.