IT Director

Location: Onsite, Berkshire

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent, Year-Round

Role Overview

We are seeking a strategic and hands-on IT Director to lead the network services and oversee a small, dedicated IT team at an independent secondary school in Berkshire. This role is pivotal in ensuring the reliability, security, and scalability of the IT infrastructure, while supporting the digital needs of staff and students across the school.

Key Responsibilities

Network & Infrastructure Management

·       Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of the school’s network infrastructure

·       Ensure high availability, performance, and security of all IT systems and services

·       Manage firewalls, switches, servers, and Microsoft 365

·       Lead projects such as network upgrades, device rollouts, and system migrations

·       Implement and maintain robust cybersecurity protocols and data protection policies

·       Ensure compliance with relevant legislation (GDPR, safeguarding standards)

·       Conduct regular risk assessments and audits

Team Leadership & Development

·       Lead, mentor, and support a small team of IT technicians

·       Provide high-level support for escalated technical issues from the User Services Engineer

·       Allocate tasks, set priorities, and foster a culture of continuous improvement

·       Provide professional development opportunities and performance reviews

Strategic Planning & Budgeting

·       Develop and deliver a long-term IT strategy aligned with the school’s vision

·       Manage the IT budget, procurement, and vendor relationships

·       Advise senior leadership on emerging technologies and digital transformation

·       Champion the use of technology in teaching and learning

Person Specification

·       Proven experience in IT leadership within an education establishment

·       Strong technical expertise in networking and infrastructure

·       Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

·       Ability to lead and inspire a small team

·       Relevant qualifications and certifications

Franklin Bates is a leading IT recruitment consultancy specialising in Software Development, AI, Cybersecurity, Cloud, & Data. We provide high quality contract, interim and permanent IT professionals to a broad range of technology companies within the UK.