Information Technology Manager

If you are a hands‑on IT operations leader who enjoys building structure, improving processes, and taking ownership of an entire technology environment, this could be a strong fit. This position is ideal for someone who is comfortable balancing day‑to‑day technical operations with vendor management, business analysis, application support, and continuous improvement initiatives across a growing multi‑site business. Job Title: Director of IT Operations Location: Newark, NJ Area Reports To: COO Overview This is a hands‑on leadership role for someone who wants to take ownership of IT operations across a growing multi‑site business. The company currently leverages outsourced IT and application support partners, but needs an internal technology leader who can drive accountability, improve structure and processes, proactively solve problems, and align technology with business operations. The ideal candidate is technically strong, operationally minded, proactive, and comfortable working both strategically and in the weeds. This person will oversee infrastructure, vendor management, application support, cybersecurity, and business systems while helping the company continuously improve efficiency, scalability, and overall IT operations. Key Responsibilities Own end‑to‑end IT operations across headquarters and branch locations, including infrastructure, networks, systems, applications, and user support Lead and manage outsourced IT vendors, application support providers, and third‑party technology partners Serve as the primary escalation point for critical IT and operational technology issues Ensure the uptime and performance of core business systems, including ERP, inventory, order management, and operational applications Oversee and coordinate support for all business applications and operational systems Work closely with leadership to analyze business processes, identify inefficiencies, and recommend technology‑driven improvements Translate business needs into technical requirements and coordinate execution with vendors and internal stakeholders Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on operational efficiency, scalability, structure, and cost savings Support warehouse and branch operations, including connectivity, hardware, scanners, and user access Oversee cybersecurity efforts, including access controls, endpoint protection, backups, and risk mitigation Manage IT projects, including upgrades, ERP enhancements, hardware rollouts, and integrations Evaluate, enhance, and maintain IT policies, documentation, procedures, and best practices Monitor IT spend, vendor contracts, software licensing, and infrastructure costs Qualifications 7–10+ years of experience in IT operations, infrastructure, systems management, or IT leadership Experience managing outsourced IT providers/MSPs, software vendors, and application support partners Strong business analysis and process improvement capabilities Strong technical foundation across infrastructure, networking, cloud environments, business systems, and cybersecurity Hands‑on troubleshooting ability with a roll‑up‑your‑sleeves mindset Experience supporting multi‑site operational environments Familiarity with ERP systems, warehouse operations, and business applications Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem‑solving skills Proactive mindset with the ability to build structure, accountability, and operational discipline Preferred Experience Experience in wholesale distribution, logistics, HVAC, plumbing, electrical supply, or industrial environments Exposure to Microsoft environments including O365 and Azure Experience supporting warehouse systems, scanners, and branch‑level infrastructure #J-18808-Ljbffr KDS Strategic Search Group