Head of IT

We are recruiting for a Head of IT to take full ownership of a growing and evolving technology estate within a highly regulated environment. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will play a key role in shaping technology strategy whilst leading day-to-day IT operations, infrastructure, security and compliance.

This is not a role where you simply set the direction and delegate everything else.

We are looking for a hands-on technology leader who can move seamlessly from discussions around budgets, risk and future technology roadmaps to reviewing infrastructure, managing suppliers, strengthening cybersecurity and supporting complex technical projects when required.

The Role

Based at our clients headquarters in Bristol, with an expected on-site presence of approximately three days per week, you will lead a small IT team and take responsibility for the entire technology function.

Key areas of responsibility include:

• IT infrastructure, networks and cloud architecture
• AWS and hybrid/on-premise environments
• Microsoft Entra ID, Active Directory and Microsoft Intune
• Cybersecurity, EDR and SIEM platforms
• Information security, UK GDPR and regulatory compliance
• Business continuity and disaster recovery planning
• IT strategy, systems optimisation and application rationalisation
• Supplier management, contracts and technology budgets
• End-user support and access management
• Developing, mentoring and growing the internal IT team

Operating within a highly regulated and customer-focused environment, security, resilience and compliance are central to this role.

We are keen to speak with experienced IT professionals who can combine strategic leadership with strong technical expertise.

You will ideally have:

Extensive experience across IT operations, systems engineering and infrastructure management

Previous experience leading, developing and mentoring IT teams

Strong hands-on knowledge of AWS and hybrid infrastructure environments

Good working knowledge of Microsoft Entra ID and Microsoft Intune

Strong networking fundamentals

Practical cybersecurity experience

Experience working within regulated or compliance-driven environments

Proven experience managing third-party suppliers, contracts and technology budgets