Head of IT

The Head of IT is responsible for leading and managing Ventrica’s technology, infrastructure, and cyber security to ensure the business operates efficiently, securely, and at scale across the UK and South Africa. 

Working closely with the CFOO and wider leadership team, you will translate business priorities into a clear, practical IT plan, ensuring strong day-to-day delivery alongside continuous improvement. The role focuses on driving consistency, reliability, and control across the IT estate, ensuring technology enables efficient ways of working and dependable service for colleagues. 

You will lead IT and Service Desk teams, take ownership of IT architecture and documentation, manage budgets, and deliver key initiatives including server migrations and offshore technology builds. This is a hands-on leadership role balancing operational oversight with technical delivery and continuous improvement. 

Please note, this role is a 6 month fixed term contract. 

Key Responsibilities 

Technology, Infrastructure, Architecture & Operational Enablement 

• Deliver and maintain an IT roadmap aligned to business needs, growth plans, and operational priorities.  

• Own and define IT architecture across infrastructure, systems, and end-user environments, ensuring scalability, resilience, and standardisation.  

• Produce and maintain clear technical architecture documentation, process documentation, and system design artefacts.  

• Lead infrastructure modernisation initiatives, including server migrations (on-premise to cloud or hybrid environments).  

• Support and deliver offshore technology builds, ensuring environments are secure, consistent, and operationally ready.  

• Ensure infrastructure is reliable, scalable, and cost-effective across UK and South Africa operations.  

Cyber Security, Risk & Resilience 

• Own and implement cyber security strategy and controls, ensuring security-by-design across all systems and services.  

• Establish and maintain policies and documentation for information security, data protection, disaster recovery, and business continuity.  

• Proactively manage vulnerabilities, risks, and incidents, ensuring appropriate response and mitigation.  

• Ensure compliance with relevant standards, regulatory requirements, and client security expectations.  

IT Operations, Service & Reliability 

• Lead IT Support and Service Desk teams to deliver a consistent, reliable, and user-focused service.  

• Define and manage service performance through KPIs, SLAs, and reporting.  

• Ensure effective incident, problem, and change management processes are documented, embedded, and continuously improved.  

• Drive automation, standardisation, and efficiency across IT operations.  

Leadership, Governance & Delivery 

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing IT team with clear accountability and ways of working.  

• Act as the bridge between technical and non-technical stakeholders, translating business needs into practical solutions.  

• Ensure strong governance, prioritisation, and structured delivery of IT initiatives and projects.  

• Promote best practice in documentation, process discipline, and knowledge sharing.  

Financial Management, Budgeting & Supplier Control 

• Own and manage the IT budget, including forecasting, cost control, and investment planning.  

• Ensure all technology spend delivers measurable business value and aligns with strategic priorities.  

• Manage vendor relationships, including contract negotiation, renewals, and performance monitoring.  

• Identify cost optimisation opportunities while maintaining service quality and security.  

What Success Looks Like in Role 

• IT infrastructure and systems are stable, scalable, and well-architected.  

• Server migrations and offshore builds are delivered successfully, on time, and with minimal disruption.  

• Cyber security is robust, proactive, and embedded across all technology areas.  

• Documentation and processes are clear, consistent, and widely adopted.  

• IT services are reliable, responsive, and aligned with business needs.  

• Budget is well-managed, with clear visibility of spend and value.  

What You Bring 

Experience 

• Experience in an IT leadership or senior management role within a multi-site or international environment.  

• Strong background in IT infrastructure, architecture, and service delivery.  

• Proven experience delivering server migrations, infrastructure upgrades, or cloud transitions.  

• Experience building or supporting offshore IT environments or operations.  

• Hands-on experience implementing cyber security controls and managing organisational risk.  

• Experience owning and managing IT budgets and supplier relationships.  

Skills & Approach 

• Strong technical foundation with the ability to remain hands-on when required.  

• Ability to design and document architecture, processes, and technical standards clearly.  

• Structured and methodical approach to delivery, governance, and problem solving.  

• Commercially aware, balancing cost, risk, and performance.  

• Clear communicator who can engage both technical teams and senior stakeholders.  

• Calm, resilient, and proactive in managing risk and change.