Head of IT

Head of IT | Trafford Park, Manchester | Hybrid – 3 Days On-Site

Are you ready to build an IT function from the ground up and take full ownership? This is your opportunity.

This newly created Head of IT role reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer, offering the autonomy to define the IT strategy, shape the team, and demonstrate the transformative power of excellent technology leadership.

Why This Role Is Exceptional

• A blank canvas: you will establish the identity and strategic value of IT rather than inheriting an existing framework.
• A clear progression path to Chief Technology Officer within 3 to 5 years, aligned with the growth of both the IT function and the business.
• Significant commercial impact, including scaling ecommerce revenue from 10% to 30%.
• Complete ownership of strategy, budget, and management of supplier and MSP relationships.
• A genuine seat at the executive table, influencing board-level decisions and empowered to challenge when necessary.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and own the IT strategy and roadmap, advancing the function beyond its current stage.
• Lead a small, skilled team across multiple sites and countries, supported by external partners where appropriate.
• Ensure the IT estate remains stable, secure, and efficiently managed, maintaining a hands-on approach during critical delivery or escalation situations.
• Maximise value from the ERP system (currently Sage X3) and enhance data integration across platforms.
• Oversee security, risk, and compliance initiatives, progressing towards Cyber Essentials and ISO 27001 accreditation.
• Build robust business cases for investment, ensuring every expenditure delivers measurable value.

Who We Are Looking For

This position is best suited to a candidate who thrives in an SME or mid-market environment, where agility and adaptability are key, rather than within a large corporate structure. You will excel in a dynamic setting where processes are evolving, and you will be equally comfortable engaging in high-level strategic discussions and collaborating hands-on with your team.

Desired experience and skills include:

• Proven success in leading and developing an IT function, ideally with multi-site or international experience.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the confidence to challenge plans when necessary.
• A broad technical background encompassing infrastructure, cloud services, security, and business systems.
• Experience managing MSPs, suppliers, budgets, and contracts effectively.
• Desirable: familiarity with Sage X3, Microsoft 365, Entra, ecommerce integration, EDI, and data or BI tools.

This is a genuine opportunity to build and lead an IT function within a business poised for growth. If this challenge aligns with your ambitions or you know someone who would excel in this role, please get in touch.