Hardware Services lead

Duration: contract to run until 18/09/2026

Location: Reading, hybrid 2/3 days per week onsite

Rate: up to £533 p/d Umbrella inside IR35

Clearance required: SC Eligibility is required, Active SC is preferred

We are seeking a Hardware Services Lead to oversee and manage a team of up to 15 engineers across several core sites. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth delivery of second-line hardware support, laptop deployments, IT peripherals, procurement fulfilment, and mobile data/SIM management. The successful candidate will combine strong leadership with technical expertise, driving operational excellence through KPIs, SLAs, and supplier engagement.

• Lead and manage a distributed team of up to 15 hardware support engineers.
• Conduct monthly 1-2-1s, performance reviews, and provide coaching to drive professional growth.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and customer-focused team culture.

• Oversee second-line break/fix support for laptops, desktops, and IT peripherals.
• Manage laptop deployments, refresh cycles, and peripheral distribution across multiple sites.
• Ensure timely procurement fulfilment of hardware and accessories.
• Administer mobile data and SIM usage, ensuring compliance and cost efficiency.

• Define, monitor, and report against KPIs and SLAs to ensure service excellence.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and user experience.
• Maintain accurate records of assets, usage, and procurement activities.
• Act as the primary point of contact for hardware and mobile service suppliers.

• Proven experience in leading IT hardware support teams across multiple sites.
• Strong knowledge of laptop deployment, break/fix processes, and IT peripheral management.
• Experience in procurement fulfilment and supplier management.
• Familiarity with mobile data/SIM administration and usage monitoring.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to define and track KPIs and SLAs, with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to risk management.

• Clear communicator with the ability to translate technical issues into business language.
• Practical, solution-oriented mindset with a focus on efficiency and accountability.
• Collaborative leader who empowers teams and builds strong supplier relationships.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to governance and service excellence.

All profiles will be reviewed against the required skills and experience. Due to the high number of applications we will only be able to respond to successful applicants in the first instance. We thank you for your interest and the time taken to apply!