IT Manager

IT Manager The Manager of Information Technology is responsible for the day-to-day planning, coordination, and operation of the company's technology infrastructure, systems, and end-user support functions. The IT Manager ensures that all hardware, software, network, and communication systems operate reliably and securely to support business operations. Working closely with department heads and the executive team, the IT Manager identifies technology needs, manages IT projects, oversees vendor relationships, and ensures that IT policies, procedures, and security standards are consistently followed across the organization. The IT Manager supervises IT support staff and serves as the primary point of escalation for technical issues. Key Responsibilities Leadership Develop and maintain annual IT operational plans, incorporating budget planning and project scheduling aligned with organizational goals. Prepare, submit, and manage the IT department budget within approved guidelines, tracking expenses and ensuring cost-effective use of technology resources. Maintain regular communication with department heads and end users regarding IT activities, system changes, planned maintenance, and service disruptions. Define and communicate project timelines, service level expectations, and resource allocation to relevant stakeholders. Evaluate the performance of IT systems and services; report on productivity levels, operational costs, and infrastructure needs. Analyze department technology needs and establish priorities for system improvements, upgrades, and new implementations. Translate technical concepts into clear, non-technical language when communicating with non-IT staff and leadership. Project Management Stay current on developments in IT systems, hardware, software, and cloud technologies, and incorporate relevant advancements into the company's IT environment. Manage IT projects from initiation through completion, including scoping, scheduling, resource coordination, and stakeholder communication. Maintain and develop relationships with technology vendors, contractors, and service providers; obtain and evaluate quotes and proposals for hardware, software, and services. Coordinate with outside consultants or managed service providers where specialized expertise is required. Identify and implement software and technology solutions that improve end-user productivity and operational efficiency. Develop and document IT project plans, including timelines, costs, and expected outcomes. Prepare cost-benefit analyses and business justifications for IT purchases and initiatives. Technical Operations & Support Oversee and, where necessary, directly perform the deployment, configuration, monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting of servers, workstations, network infrastructure, printers, and peripherals. Manage cloud-based services, SaaS applications, and on-premise systems, ensuring availability, performance, and security. Serve as the primary escalation point for complex technical issues that cannot be resolved by frontline support staff. Ensure the reliable operation of telephone, internet, and other communication systems across all company locations. Track and maintain an accurate inventory of IT hardware assets, software licenses, warranties, maintenance agreements, and vendor contracts. Training & Staff Development Develop, implement, enforce, and maintain all IT policies and procedures, including those covering security, acceptable use, data protection, disaster recovery, and software licensing. Coordinate and deliver end-user training on technology tools, systems, and security practices. Develop and maintain the company's disaster recovery and business continuity plan; conduct periodic testing and updates. Foster a service-oriented culture within the IT function, emphasizing responsiveness, professionalism, and continuous improvement. Cybersecurity & Compliance Implement and maintain cybersecurity measures including endpoint protection, patch management, multi-factor authentication, access controls, and data backup procedures. Monitor systems for security threats, vulnerabilities, and anomalies; respond to incidents promptly and document findings. Maintain working knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards related to data privacy, cybersecurity, and IT compliance (e.g., HIPAA, PCI-DSS as applicable). Ensure proper software licensing compliance and maintain documentation for audits. Manage and test data backup and recovery processes to ensure data integrity and availability. Continuous Improvement Proactively research and evaluate emerging technologies and tools that could benefit the organization. Identify opportunities to streamline or automate workflows through technology. Participate in peer benchmarking, professional associations, and continuing education to remain current in the field. Develop bid specifications for hardware and software procurement; review vendor submissions for compliance and recommend award. Job Expectations of all employees Works with integrity, excellence, and humility to promote teamwork with all colleagues. Demonstrates excellent internal and external customer service skills such as friendly greeting, making eye contact, listening attentively, responding in a timely manner, showing respect and empathy, and acting as a role model to peers. Attends and actively participates in required meetings and training sessions. Complies with established policies, procedures, and codes of conduct at all times. Practices and teaches safety awareness. Identifies and reports or corrects any possible safety or environmental issues. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Management Information Systems, or a related field; equivalent combination of education and experience considered. Minimum of 5 years of progressive IT experience, with at least 12 years in a lead technical role. Demonstrated experience managing IT infrastructure including networks, servers, endpoints, and cloud services in a business environment. Strong working knowledge of cybersecurity best practices, data protection, and IT compliance requirements. Experience with IT project management, including scoping, scheduling, budgeting, and delivering technology initiatives on time. Familiarity with Microsoft 365 / Azure environments, virtualization, backup systems, and common business applications. Relevant certifications preferred (e.g., CompTIA Network+, Security+, Microsoft MD-102 / AZ-104, or equivalent). Solid vendor management and contract oversight skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical staff and leadership. Proven track record of end-user support and IT customer service in a professional business environment. Travel Time/Commitment Travel by automobile may be required on an occasional, as-needed basis between company locations or to vendor/service provider sites, in the sole discretion of the Company, on behalf of itself and any affiliated companies, parties, etc., it may represent. Physical Requirements While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands and fingers to handle or feel; talk or hear. The employee is required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to focus. Walking - 10.00% Sitting - 75.00% Standing - 15.00% Lifting - On occasion up to 50lbs The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. The Widewaters Group Inc. reserves the right to modify position duties at any time, to reflect process improvements and business necessity. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr