It Operations Manager

Overview

• Own and shape IT operations in a growing SME
• Help spearhead new and exciting projects

Our client is a growing and well-backed organisation operating within the property and investment sector. With a modern Microsoft technology environment and a strong commitment to technology investment, they are seeking an IT Operations Manager to support the continued development of IT services, infrastructure and cyber security capabilities. The business operates a largely outsourced IT model and is looking for a strong technology generalist who can effectively manage suppliers, engage stakeholders and ensure technology delivers maximum value to the organisation.

Reporting to the IT Director, the IT Operations Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day management of IT operations, service delivery and supplier relationships across the business. The role will act as the bridge between business stakeholders and outsourced technology providers, ensuring services are delivered effectively and projects are successfully executed.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing operational IT services and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Owning relationships with managed service providers and technology vendors.
• Holding suppliers accountable against service levels and project deliverables.
• Supporting and coordinating infrastructure, networking and Microsoft 365 services.
• Overseeing key technologies including Microsoft 365, Azure, Entra , SharePoint and Teams.
• Contributing to cyber security initiatives, governance and risk management activities.
• Supporting infrastructure modernisation, tenant migrations and cloud projects.
• Building strong relationships across the business and acting as a trusted technology partner.
• Managing and developing data-focused direct reports.
• Supporting the delivery of operational technology and digital transformation initiatives where appropriate.

The successful applicant will be an experienced IT Manager, IT Operations Manager or Infrastructure-focused technology professional with a broad technical background and strong stakeholder management skills. You will demonstrate:

• Proven experience operating within an SME environment.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft 365 and Azure technologies.
• Experience overseeing infrastructure, networking and end‑user services.
• A strong understanding of cyber security best practice.
• Previous experience managing outsourced IT providers or MSPs.
• Strong service delivery and operational management experience.
• Experience delivering infrastructure and technology projects.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A proactive and commercially‑minded approach to problem solving.
• The ability to balance operational priorities whilst driving service improvement.
• Microsoft tenant or domain migrations.
• Power Platform or automation technologies.
• Cyber Essentials knowledge.
• ITIL, Microsoft or cyber security certifications.
• Exposure to digital transformation and cloud adoption initiatives.

• Salary of £55,000 - £60,000.
• Annual bonus opportunity.
• Hybrid working model.
• Opportunity to work directly alongside an experienced IT Director.
• Ownership of operational IT services within a growing business.
• Exposure to Microsoft 365, Azure and cyber security projects.
• Opportunity to influence service improvements and technology delivery.
• A varied role combining technology, project delivery and stakeholder engagement.
• Career progression potential as the technology function continues to evolve.

Location:

Manchester, England