Job Description

Job Summary
Our client, the owner of several companies and prominent brands across a variety of industry sectors, is seeking to employ an experienced Group IT Manager to their Head Office team based in City Deep, Johannesburg.
The appointed candidate must be strong in managing teams and running projects. They will oversee 7 staff in total; viz. networking, helpdesk, security, SAP / software devs.
Furthermore, the appointed candidate must :

• be willing to work with exec level managers, handle push back and be resilient.
• be trustworthy and capable.
• be able to come in and solve issues, build policies and procedures.
• be accountable and responsible to build the central IT services function with excellence and care!

Requirements:

• Matric Certificate.
• A+ / N+ - MS Certificate/Engineer.
• MCITP
• Network Security + Diploma in IT Systems Administration (NQF level 4/5) one.
• 10 years in IT Administration/Networks.
• 3 Years in IT Management.
• Must be able to communicate in both English and Afrikaans.
• Valid driver's license and own vehicle.
• Willingness to travel as required.

Responsibilities, but not limited to:
User Desktop Support

• Manage and oversee the user helpdesk and single ticketing system.
• Attend to complex and high-priority support tickets directly.
• Develop and implement strategies to reduce the number of support queries and improve user satisfaction.
• Report on helpdesk and ticketing system activity, including improvements in efficiency and effectiveness.
• Oversee and support the planning and delivery of user training programs.

System and Cyber Security

• Identify IT security risks and threats and develop and implement solutions to manage these risks.
• Prepare, implement, and monitor IT security policies and protocols to ensure alignment with current industry standards.
• Ensure all IT systems, servers, and devices are protected with appropriate security measures such as firewalls, antivirus software, malware protection, and strong password protocols.
• Regularly test, document, and report on the effectiveness of key security controls to minimize penetration risk.
• Manage user profiles and passwords for all systems, including the creation and removal of accounts on a monthly basis.
• Ensure compliance with IT-related aspects of data protection legislation.
• Respond to and manage IT security emergencies.

Server Management and Maintenance

• Ensure that software and firmware updates are performed regularly and completely.
• Ensure all system backups are completed successfully, tested regularly, and documented; address any issues identified.
• Manage user accounts, including reviewing and approving access levels on servers.
• Monitor and resolve server-related issues in collaboration with service providers to ensure timely resolution.
• Manage, maintain, and optimize virtual machine (VM) environments.
• Administer SQL databases to ensure their security, integrity, performance, and availability.
• Monitor and optimize server environment performance, including RAM, CPU, and hard drive utilization.
• Plan, implement, and test failover and disaster recovery solutions.
• Respond to and manage server emergencies.

Network Management and Maintenance

• Manage local and public networks to ensure optimal, cost-efficient connectivity, uptime, and speed.
• Maintain and monitor network devices, cabling, and related software.
• Design, maintain, and improve network infrastructure in line with current industry standards.
• Regularly test failover systems to ensure network continuity.
• Respond to and manage network emergencies.

Hardware Management and Maintenance

• Maintain an accurate IT infrastructure and hardware register that aligns with accounting records.
• Monitor and report on hardware upgrade and replacement needs.
• Manage ongoing maintenance and repair of all IT infrastructure and hardware.
• Regularly review and maintain an approved vendor list for IT infrastructure and hardware, focusing on quality, price, and service.
• Provide support during the procurement of IT hardware in coordination with relevant departments.
• Ensure the effective management and maintenance of hardware such as PCs, laptops, tablets, mobile phones, telecommunication devices, UPS systems, and CCTV equipment.

Software Management and Maintenance

• Maintain accurate records of all software in use within the organization.
• Ensure that adequate, up-to-date software licenses are available and compliant with supplier agreements.
• Ensure all users are utilizing the most appropriate and current software versions.
• Coordinate and support training to help users maximize the benefits of software applications.
• Develop in-house expertise by ensuring there are sufficient "super users" available to support end users and reduce dependence on external consultants.
• Ensure that all websites are consistently maintained and remain available.

IT Project Management

• Lead, manage, or coordinate IT projects from initiation to completion.
• Research and propose IT solutions to address user needs and challenges.
• Determine and document user requirements for new IT initiatives.
• Scope, prioritize, and plan IT projects based on strategic and operational goals.
• Implement, manage, and monitor IT projects as required.
• Conduct project closeout procedures, including benefit realization and formal sign-off.
• Participate in operational project teams to integrate IT solutions and enhance technology usage.

IT Department Management and Administration

• Prepare and present comprehensive departmental reports.
• Provide regular updates to senior leadership on departmental activities, projects, initiatives, and emergencies.
• Oversee and support the management of IT service providers, contracts, and adherence to service-level agreements.
• Support the delivery and improvement of IT user training programs.
• Manage IT department staff, including performance management and professional development.
• Monitor and maintain IT department systems and internal processes.
• Actively manage assigned service providers and contracts to ensure value and accountability.
• Lead automation and digitization of business processes, including intranet platforms, cloud backup, archiving, and other relevant systems.
• Develop, implement, and maintain IT policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for key processes.
• Ensure that accurate timesheets are maintained for all IT staff and report on productivity.
• Monitor, plan, and forecast IT capacity and resource requirements across the organization.

Key Behavioural Expectations

• Deliver high-quality service to all internal users and stakeholders.
• Communicate progress on tasks and projects proactively, without needing to be prompted.
• Allocate time effectively to address important, non-urgent projects.
• Practice active listening by understanding others before seeking to be understood.
• Ensure that the impact or result of any project or task is fully integrated and sustained within the business.

Please note that should you not receive a response within 2 weeks of applying, you may consider your application unsuccessful.
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