Head Of It

Head of IT - City Education GroupAbout UsCity Education Group (CEG) is a leader in delivering high-quality, innovative educational experiences, empowering students to achieve their academic and career aspirations.Encompassing City College Dublin and Ashfield College, CEG provides a diverse range of programmes, including second-level, third-level, professional qualifications, CPD, and English language training.We continue to expand and innovate, ensuring our programmes meet the evolving needs of learners in an ever-changing global landscape.CEG is part of Planet Education Networks, headquartered in Canary Wharf, London.We are now seeking an accomplished Head of IT to join our leadership team.The successful candidate will play a central role in managing, leading, and evolving all aspects of CEG's information technology systems.Role OverviewThe Head of IT will be responsible for leading and managing the Group's IT strategy, infrastructure, systems and services to ensure that technology effectively supports academic delivery, student success, administration and institutional growth.Specific emphasis will be placed on leveraging educational technologies to enhance digital learning environments.The role demands a proactive, strategically minded technology leader with a strong ability to assess and leverage IT systems to support institutional goals, design forward-thinking digital strategies, manage risk, and drive operational efficiency through innovation and data-driven decision-making.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership: Develop and implement the company's IT strategy in alignment with its academic and operational goals.Advise senior leadership on digital transformation and emerging technologies.Work with the Director of Learning Technologies to lead innovation in areas like blended learning and AI in education.IT Infrastructure & Systems: A key priority will be the successful implementation, integration, and ongoing optimisation of a Student Information System (SIS).Oversee the management of: Networks (wired/wireless), Servers (on-prem/cloud), End-user devices (PCs, Macs, tablets, AV equipment)Ensure uptime, performance, and scalability.Cybersecurity & Data Protection: Implement and monitor security protocols (firewalls, antivirus, MFA, etc.).Ensure compliance with data protection laws (e.g. GDPR).Conduct risk assessments and manage incident response plans.IT Support & Service Delivery: Manage the IT support team.Set and monitor SLAs to ensure staff and students get timely support.Oversee asset management (device lifecycle, repairs, upgrades).Educational Technology: Working with the Director of Learning Technologies to support academic staff in adopting and integrating digital learning tools.Oversee systems for online exams, e-portfolios, and lecture capture.Ensure the effective deployment and integration of educational technologies across second-level, third-level, and professional learning programmes.Lead initiatives that enhance digital pedagogy, student engagement, and assessment through innovative use of technology.Drive initiatives to improve digital literacy for staff and students.Management & Leadership: Lead the IT team: recruitment, training, performance management, delegation.Develop IT policies (acceptable use, BYOD, password policies etc)Foster a proactive, service-focused IT culture.Budgeting & Procurement: Plan and manage the IT department's annual budget.Lead procurement of hardware, software, and IT services.Evaluate vendors and negotiate contracts.Project Management: Lead key IT projects.Identify opportunities for external funding, including sponsorship, grants, or partnerships, to support the development and implementation of innovative IT initiatives.Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.Candidate ProfileQualifications & Experience:Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.A relevant professional certification (e.g., ITIL, Microsoft Certified, Cisco, CompTIA, PRINCE2, or AWS) is required.Minimum 7+ years of experience in IT management or leadership, with at least 3 years in a senior IT role.Ideally, significant experience in the education sector, particularly in managing and implementing education technologies.Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of deploying and supporting platforms such as Student Information Systems, VLEs (e.g., Moodle, Canvas), online exam systems, and digital learning tools.Strong technical and commercial acumen, with a track record of delivering cost-effective IT solutions and leading digital transformation initiatives.Advanced knowledge of education-related platforms (e.g., MIS/SIS, VLEs such as Moodle, Canvas, and blended learning tools) is preferred.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to evaluate complex technical issues and recommend effective solutions.Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and develop an IT team across multiple sites or departments.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate technical information into clear language for non-technical stakeholders.Ability to manage competing priorities, oversee multiple projects, and respond effectively to changing institutional needs or emerging technologies.Collaborative, solutions-focused team player with a strong service delivery mindset.What We Offer:Competitive salary package (commensurate with experience).Comprehensive training and professional development opportunities.A dynamic and supportive work environment in a growing education group.A collaborative and forward-thinking leadership team dedicated to excellence and innovation.Line ManagementThe successful candidate will report to the Chief Executive.Job Details:Job Type: Permanent, Full-TimeLocation: Dublin, IrelandSalary Range: €70K per annum depending on experienceMinimum 4 days a week in the office.#J-*****-Ljbffr