Information Technology Operations Manager

A leading defence & aerospace manufacturer is seeking an experienced IT Operations Manager to lead and develop IT operations across a multi-site environment. This is a high-profile leadership opportunity for an individual who combines strong operational expertise with strategic vision. You will be responsible for the performance, security, resilience and evolution of the organisation's technology landscape, ensuring IT continues to support business growth, operational excellence and future transformation. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you will lead infrastructure, service delivery and operational support functions whilst driving technology modernisation, cybersecurity improvements and the long-term IT roadmap. The Role - Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading all day-to-day IT operations across multiple UK sites.
• Managing a complex IT infrastructure environment.
• Developing and delivering the IT strategy and technology roadmap.
• Driving infrastructure modernisation and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensuring high levels of service delivery, availability and operational performance.
• Leading and developing IT teams across infrastructure, support and service functions.
• Managing Microsoft cloud and enterprise technologies.
• Overseeing cybersecurity, governance, risk management and compliance activities.
• Managing third-party suppliers, technology partners and IT budgets.
• Supporting critical business systems, including ERP - Microsoft Dynamics ERP.
• Working closely with leadership teams to align technology investments with business objectives. The Person We are looking for an accomplished IT leader who can demonstrate: Essential Experience
• Proven experience managing a large-scale, complex IT infrastructure environment.
• Strong leadership experience across infrastructure, service delivery and operational support teams.
• Experience operating within a multi-site organisation.
• Infrastructure, networking, cloud and enterprise systems expertise.
• Demonstrable experience delivering IT transformation and modernisation programmes.
• Strong cybersecurity (DEFCON 658), governance and compliance knowledge.
• Experience managing vendors, supplier relationships and IT budgets.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills. Highly Desirable
• Experience within the defence, aerospace, security sector or highly regulated manufacturing environment.
• ERP experience Microsoft Dynamics 365 or similar Oracle Netsuite, Infor VISUAL, Epicor Kinetic, etc.
• Experience supporting manufacturing and engineering operations.
• Exposure to international operations. Why This Opportunity? This role offers the chance to make a significant impact within a technology-driven organisation. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the future IT landscape, driving operational excellence, enhancing cybersecurity maturity and ensuring technology remains a strategic enabler for the business. Whilst we are open to candidates from other complex engineering or manufacturing sectors, there is a strong preference for individuals who understand the governance, security requirements and operational challenges associated with defence and aerospace environments. The individual will need to pass SC Clearance (Preferably UK passport holder, lived in the UK for a minimum of the last 5 continuous years). If this role is of interest, please send your CV to awalker@redlinegroup.com