IT Manager jobs

While IT departments tend to include a number of often diverse individuals each targeted with a very specific role, the overall task of ensuring everything gels correctly falls to the IT Manager. This is an interesting and very challenging role, and it’s one that suits people who have an extremely strong knowledge of IT infrastructures and networks, allied to the ability to lead, inspire and nurture the team. 

As well as these important qualities, those who succeed in IT Manager jobs also need to be excellent communicators. The ability to speak clearly and effectively is needed when liaising with clients, dealing with suppliers, coaching team members and, crucially, passing on information to members of the senior management team, many of whom won’t necessarily be as technically astute as others. 

What type of person makes a good IT Manager? 

One of the key skills of the IT Manager is the ability to oversee the smallest of details, and sometimes the most seemingly insignificant, while still keeping the bigger picture in focus. Bringing out the best in the various team members is vital, in order to ensure the success of the whole department. Knowing the different approaches that are needed to inspire each individual is a must. 

Needless to say, the IT Manager also has a comprehensive understanding of the tools, systems, applications and processes that make the company’s infrastructure work to its best and most effective level. Balancing the need to manage teams while retaining and developing the very best technical knowledge is a difficult skill but a very necessary one. 

Successful candidates for IT Manager jobs are able to transfer their talents easily from one sector of industry to another, but it’s worth noting they also need to have a robust awareness of the sector in which they are working. They are target-focused, with a strong eye for detail in even the most complex tasks. This is a job that suits people who know when to delegate and when to step in. 

What qualifications does an IT Manager need? 

As a general rule, realistic candidates for IT Manager jobs have experience in similar positions, allied to a strong academic background. Bachelor’s degrees in subjects such as information systems, computer science, information technology or computer engineering are popular with recruiters, although it should be pointed out that diplomas in the likes of computer networking, digital communications, cybersecurity and project management can also prove attractive. 

In addition, there are various certifications which can help with applications for an IT Manager position, including: 

• Project Management Professional (PMP) 
• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) 
• Certified Business Process Associate (CBPA) 
• Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) 

The main duties of an IT Manager 

A great many responsibilities come under the remit of an IT Manager, including: 

• Effective management of the department’s budget 
• Recruitment of team members, including programmers, developers and analysts 
• Acquisition and installation of various hardware and software applications 
• Arrangement of training programmes to develop team members 
• Test, analyse and modify new IT products 
• Report relevant information to senior management 

Discover more about the role of IT Manager