The director of IT manages the tech and overall IT strategy in an organisation. These directors are found in sectors where computer systems are vital to business success and development. They may work for law firms, finance companies, charitable organisations, or in large industrial settings, as well as for local or national government.
At Randstad Technologies, we’ve developed links with major firms in the UK and overseas, so we’re perfectly placed to source and fill IT director jobs. With over 50 years of filling roles, we have the resources to help you find the ideal role across the computing and tech sectors. So, if you have your sights set on becoming an IT director, read our job description to find out more about this senior role.
The role of the IT director
An IT director will usually oversee the use of technology throughout an organisation, including its development and implementation. The director will work closely with staff, especially managers, to assess the needs of users within the context of their business environment.
To work out what the users’ needs are, the sector that the IT systems are serving gives some context. Practical solutions that are appropriate for this sector are then suggested.
For instance, if the director of IT is working in a medical setting, their decisions about the software used and the tech that’s implemented will be based on patients who want to book online appointments and staff who need to pull patient information from an online database. These decisions will differ to those made by the IT director in a financial organisation.
Management of all IT staff will be in the director’s remit too. Other working relationships will include CEOs, heads of departments, all interface users, and consultants, together with sellers of hardware and software systems.
IT director responsibilities
The IT director job description covers a range of responsibilities. The duties of most directors typically include:
- Managing the implementation, development, monitoring, maintenance, upgrading and support of organisational IT systems. This includes operating systems, servers, PCs, software apps, telephones, and peripherals.
- Providing expert advice and support when systems are being upgraded or installed, or when there are conversions or file maintenance.
- Overseeing the development and enhancement of systems and integrating new systems with existing systems.
- Working with staff to develop plans and strategies. The goals here are to enhance client services, improve user effectiveness and encourage innovation.
- Liaising regularly with executive and senior management as well as systems users.
- Managing IT staff. The director of IT is responsible for recruitment, evaluation, training, guidance, disciplinary procedures, and dismissals.
- Developing standard operating procedures. These should follow best practice, so IT directors must keep up to speed with industry developments. Additionally, written procedures and guidelines must be provided for IT staff and system users.
- Making sure written documentation is created and maintained. This includes user and system manuals, licence agreements, and all documentation relating to modifications and upgrades.
- Keeping up with the most recent technologies and advising on what new technological solutions are needed. Stating a business case for their implementation, detailing how this will meet business and systems requirements.
- Negotiating with suppliers of hardware and software to get the best deal, including external support, and being responsible for contracting consultants and making service agreements.
- Creating a budget for each project as well as managing the financial aspects of the entire IT department, such as purchases and ongoing budgeting.
Role variations to be aware of
The above isn’t an exhaustive list of duties. There will be additional or sector-specific tasks depending on the setting you’d be working in as director, so it’s worth finding out as much as possible about the role you’re applying for.
An IT director has an overarching role in a company and may manage large or relatively small teams of technicians, support staff and consultants. The director might be required to attend board meetings to provide expert advice on the direction IT is travelling and contribute to the overall development of a business.
How to move from entry level to director of IT
Entrants to the IT sector will usually have a degree or similar qualifications in computer science or related subjects. By gaining experience in an organisation, successfully delivering projects, and continuing to add to their portfolio of qualifications through both on-the-job and off-the-job training, candidates will enhance skills and allow progression, in time, to director level.
If you’re looking for interview tips to help you progress in the IT sector, take a look at our advice for those going for project manager roles. The path to director starts at the entry levels, but it’s possible to work your way up over time.
To find out more about IT roles, take a look at our jobs board. You can also send us your CV so that we can email you directly with any IT director jobs that come up.
