Overview:

• Our client is seeking to hire a highly skilled and strategic HOD: IT, IT Security and Infrastructure to lead our IT operations, ensure the security and efficiency of our IT infrastructure, and drive digital transformation.
• The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing IT systems, managing projects, and ensuring compliance with industry standards, while fostering innovation and aligning technology initiatives with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic IT Planning

• Develop and implement a strategic IT roadmap aligned with business goals.
• Identify emerging technologies to enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation.
• Establish IT policies, procedures, and best practices to support business needs.

System and Network Management

• Oversee the maintenance and optimization of IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and cloud- based systems.
• Ensure high availability, security, and performance of IT systems.
• Implement and monitor network security measures to protect company assets.

Cybersecurity Management

• Develop and enforce cybersecurity policies and risk mitigation strategies.
• Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.
• Ensure compliance with data protection laws and industry regulations.

Project Management

• Lead IT projects, including system upgrades, software implementations, and infrastructure enhancements.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align IT initiatives with business needs.

Team Leadership and Management

• Recruit, train, and mentor IT team members to build a high-performing team.
• Assign responsibilities, monitor performance, and foster a culture of innovation.
• Encourage collaboration and continuous learning within the IT department.

Software and Hardware Management

• Oversee the procurement, deployment, and maintenance of IT hardware and software. Ensure compliance with software licensing and optimize IT resource utilisation.
• Manage software development and integration projects where applicable.

Technical Support and Troubleshooting

• Provide expert-level technical support to ensure minimal downtime.
• Establish a structured IT support framework for issue resolution.
• Continuously improve IT service delivery through monitoring and user feedback.

Budget Management

• Develop and manage the IT budget, ensuring cost-effective allocation of resources.
• Negotiate contracts with vendors and service providers for optimal pricing.
• Monitor IT expenditures and identify cost-saving opportunities.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure IT systems adhere to industry regulations, cybersecurity standards, and company policies.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of IT policies and compliance requirements.

Innovation and Digital Transformation

• Drive digital transformation initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.
• Identify opportunities for automation and process improvements using technology.
• Stay updated on emerging trends and best practices in IT and digital innovation.

Key Skills and Competencies:

• Strong expertise in IT infrastructure, networking, cloud computing (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud), databases and networking.
• In-depth knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, firewalls, risk management and compliance standards (e.g., ISO 27001, GDPR, POPIA).
• Proficiency in IT service management (ITSM), ERP, and CRM systems.
• Knowledge of software development processes and database management.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects.
• Excellent negotiation skills for managing vendors.
• Experience in managing IT budgets and cost control.
• Strategic thinking ability to align IT initiatives with business objectives.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Matric
• Bachelors degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Certification in ITIL, PMP, CISSP, Microsoft, AWS, or other relevant industry certifications are preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in IT Management, Senior IT leadership role or a related role.

Kindly regard your application as unsuccessful if you have not heard from the agency within 2 weeks.