Head of Information Technology - Contract at Saragossa, England, £Contract Rate

Contract - Outside of IR35, dependant on experience

Longevity - 6 months, with option to convert full time

Three days working in office, two at home

MUST HAVE FINANCIAL SERVICES EXPERIENCE - IDEALLY FROM A WEALTH MANAGEMENT BACKGROUND

The Head of IT is responsible for leading the strategy, delivery, and continuous improvement of the organisation’s technology environment. The role ensures that IT services are secure, reliable, and scalable, supporting business operations and future growth.

This position provides leadership across IT infrastructure, service management, and cybersecurity while contributing to operational resilience and risk management. The successful candidate will be a proactive and collaborative leader who promotes innovation, strong governance, and a high standard of technology service across a distributed business environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the organisation’s IT capabilities, ensuring technology services effectively support operational needs and strategic priorities.
• Maintain a secure, resilient, and scalable IT environment, with a strong focus on modern infrastructure and cloud-based technologies.
• Oversee the delivery and performance of IT services, including infrastructure, systems, and cybersecurity.
• Support the development and implementation of operational resilience frameworks, including business continuity and disaster recovery planning.
• Work closely with senior stakeholders to understand organisational requirements and align technology solutions accordingly.
• Manage external technology partners and suppliers, ensuring services are delivered effectively, within agreed standards and contractual terms.
• Promote responsible technology investment and cost management practices across IT operations.
• Use performance data and service metrics to monitor effectiveness, inform decision-making, and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Lead IT planning and delivery for organisational change initiatives, including office relocations, integrations, or business expansion activities.
• Provide regular reporting and insights on IT performance, risks, and improvement opportunities to senior leadership.
• Build and lead a capable IT team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional development.
• Ensure IT operations adhere to relevant health and safety standards across both office-based and remote working environments.
• Encourage a culture of responsible risk management and continuous improvement within the technology function.

Experience and Skills

• Demonstrated experience leading IT functions within a regulated or complex business environment.
• Strong understanding of modern IT infrastructure, cloud technologies, cybersecurity, and service management.
• Experience supporting organisational resilience, including business continuity and disaster recovery planning.
• Ability to communicate effectively with both technical teams and senior business stakeholders.
• Proven track record managing external technology providers and delivering complex IT initiatives.
• Knowledge of governance, risk management, and regulatory considerations related to IT.
• Strong focus on improving user experience and operational efficiency through technology.
• Experience leading and developing teams within a multi-location organisation.
• Relevant technical certifications or project management qualifications are advantageous.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to use data to support service improvement and decision-making.
• Flexible approach to working across teams, locations, and organisational priorities.

Key Behaviour Indicators

• Strategic thinker with a strong focus on delivery and outcomes.
• Clear and effective communicator who engages stakeholders across the organisation.
• Collaborative leader who builds strong working relationships.
• Committed to innovation and continuous improvement.
• Technically credible with the ability to mentor and develop others.
• Accountable, proactive, and results-oriented.