> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3327640-head-of-information-technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3327640-head-of-information-technology). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Head of Information Technology - **Company:** OpenWorks Engineering - **Location:** Prudhoe, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** £80,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Business Systems, Cyber Security, Data Integration, Information Technology Operations, Software Systems, Systems Integration, SC Clearance, Information Technology - **Published:** September 10, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.adzuna.co.uk/jobs/details/5878453777 ## About the Role Experienced IT leader: Significant experience leading an IT function and developing high-performing teams. People focused: Able to build strong relationships, set clear direction and create accountability across a team. Broad technical expertise: Strong experience across IT infrastructure, hardware, software systems and technology platforms. Security-conscious: Experience working in a regulated or security-focused environment, ideally within defence, aerospace or another complex engineering sector. Commercially minded: Able to understand business requirements and translate them into practical, scalable technology solutions. Growth experience: Experience scaling IT operations within a growing technology, engineering or similarly complex organisation. Future focused: Experience or strong interest in AI, automation, data integration and emerging technologies. Essential: Able to obtain Security Clearance What else would be great Defence experience: Experience working within the defence industry or a similar security-focused environment. AI implementation: Experience developing or delivering an AI implementation strategy. Data integration: Demonstrable experience integrating data from separate systems into effective reporting and management tools. International IT: Experience managing IT across operational sites, including US requirements. Cyber security: Knowledge of defence cyber-security standards and experience handling classified information. Security clearance: Current UK Security Clearance ## Description This is an opportunity for an experienced IT leader who enjoys being close to the business, making things happen and balancing strategic thinking with practical delivery. You'll have the scope to shape how we use technology, data, automation and AI as we continue to grow, while ensuring our infrastructure and security are ready for what comes next., OpenWorks Engineering operates within the defence sector. As part of our recruitment and onboarding processes, we collect information that may be required to support future security vetting and clearance requirements, should these become necessary during employment., Manage delivery: Balance day-to-day IT support with proactive improvement and longer-term technology development. Lead technology change: Oversee key IT projects and external technology partners, ensuring effective delivery. IT Strategy Shape our technology strategy: Work with the CIO and leadership team to ensure IT supports OWE's growth and future direction. Understand business needs: Partner with departments across the business to identify technology priorities and deliver practical solutions. IT Infrastructure Build for growth: Ensure our infrastructure, networks, systems and workplace technology are secure, reliable and scalable. Improve how we work: Drive improvements across systems integration, data, automation, collaboration and user experience. Support international growth: Oversee UK and US technology requirements, connectivity and country-specific considerations. Information Security Strengthen our security: Provide leadership and direction to the Security & Compliance function, ensuring security, resilience and compliance are embedded across IT and the wider business. Manage technology risk: Ensure security priorities align with our business objectives, risk appetite and future growth. Systems & AI Drive smarter technology: Oversee the selection, integration and development of business systems, ensuring they deliver genuine business value. Lead AI adoption: Identify practical opportunities to use AI, automation and data to improve efficiency and decision-making, with appropriate security and governance. Budgeting & Resource Management Plan for the future: Manage IT budgets, resource planning and investment proposals, providing clear reporting and recommendations to the CIO and Board.