IT and Digital Services Manager

IT and Digital Services Manager About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking IT and Digital Services Manager to lead the strategic development, operational delivery and continuous improvement of IT services, digital infrastructure, business systems, information security and digital transformation.

The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering an effective IT and Digital Strategy, ensuring technology services provide a secure, reliable and innovative environment that supports teaching, learning, student experience and organisational operations.

As the lead for IT governance, cybersecurity, information management, data protection and technology infrastructure, you will ensure compliance with relevant legislation, GDPR, Cyber Essentials requirements and recognised best practices within the higher education sector.

Working closely with senior leaders and key stakeholders, you will identify opportunities to enhance organisational performance through technology investment, process automation, digital innovation and continuous service improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership and Governance: Develop and implement IT and digital strategies aligned with organisational priorities and long-term objectives.

• IT Operations and Service Delivery: Oversee IT support services, service standards, system availability and continuous improvement.

• Infrastructure, Cloud and Microsoft 365: Manage and develop IT infrastructure, cloud services, networks and Microsoft 365 environments.

• Cybersecurity and Information Assurance: Lead cybersecurity strategy, risk management, security controls and incident response.

• Enterprise Systems and Applications: Oversee business-critical systems, applications, integrations and technology platforms.

• Data Governance and Management Information: Ensure effective data management, reporting, information governance and compliance with data protection legislation.

• Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery: Maintain appropriate continuity plans, backup arrangements and disaster recovery procedures.

• Procurement, Supplier and Contract Management: Manage technology procurement, supplier relationships, service agreements and budgets.

• Leadership and People Management: Lead, support and develop IT teams, promoting accountability, collaboration and professional development.

• Higher Education Responsibilities: Ensure technology services effectively support academic delivery, student services, institutional administration and the wider higher education environment.

Skills and Experience

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong IT leadership, strategic planning and operational management capabilities, alongside a thorough understanding of cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, information governance and enterprise systems.

They should possess excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills, the ability to manage competing priorities, and a commitment to delivering secure, effective and user-focused technology services.

Experience in higher education or a similarly complex organisation, together with knowledge of GDPR, Cyber Essentials, cloud technologies and digital transformation, would be advantageous.

Application Deadline

12:00 noon on Monday 16 November 2026

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit an application in accordance with the recruitment process outlined in the relevant application pack. Applicants should ensure that all required documentation is completed and submitted before the stated deadline.