Interim IT Operations Manager in Manchester

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Interim IT Operations Manager to join a fast-growing, private equity-backed organisation undergoing significant expansion and technology investment. This is a hands-on leadership role combining IT operations, supplier management, technology strategy and business partnering within a modern Microsoft environment.

Client Details Michael Page is proud to be partnered with an ambitious, growth-focused business that has recently secured significant investment and is entering an exciting phase of expansion. With approximately 200 employees across multiple UK sites, the organisation has a dynamic, entrepreneurial culture where technology is viewed as a key enabler of future growth.

The business operates a largely outsourced IT model, partnering with a specialist managed service provider for infrastructure and service desk support. As a result, they are seeking an experienced Interim IT Manager who can act as the internal technology lead, ensuring suppliers perform effectively while helping shape the future technology roadmap.

Description This is a broad and highly visible Interim IT Operations Manager role that will suit an IT professional who enjoys balancing operational leadership with strategic thinking. Reporting into senior business leaders, you will take ownership of the internal technology function and work closely with external technology partners to ensure the delivery of stable, secure and scalable IT services.

Key responsibilities will include

• Acting as the primary technology lead across the business.
• Managing the relationship and performance of the external MSP responsible for infrastructure and service desk services.
• Ensuring IT services are delivered in line with business expectations and agreed service levels.
• Leading technology initiatives across cyber security, business continuity, backups, resilience and operational risk.
• Providing input into the wider technology strategy and future roadmap.
• Working closely with senior stakeholders to align technology investment with business objectives.
• Managing and developing a small internal technology team consisting of two Power Platform-focused developers (one senior and one junior). Supporting the continued adoption and optimisation of Microsoft technologies including Microsoft 365 and Azure.
• Identifying opportunities for process improvement, automation and efficiency gains across the organisation.
• Supporting technology projects related to business growth, scalability and operational effectiveness.
• This role requires someone comfortable moving between strategic discussions with leadership teams and hands-on involvement in day-to-day technology matters.
• Profile We're looking to speak with experienced Interim IT Managers, Interim IT Operations Managers, or Interim Infrastructure Managers who have successfully operated within growing businesses and are comfortable working within an outsourced support model.

The ideal candidate will possess

• Proven experience leading an internal IT function.
• Strong experience managing and challenging Managed Service Providers.
• A solid understanding of Microsoft 365, Azure and cloud-based technologies.
• Experience overseeing infrastructure, security and operational technology services.
• Knowledge of cyber security, backup, resilience and disaster recovery best practices.
• Previous experience managing technical teams and developing talent.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• A proactive and commercially minded approach to problem solving.
• Experience working within fast-paced, changing environments.
• Just as importantly, we're looking for someone who will fit the culture of the business.
• You'll be approachable, pragmatic and low-ego in your style, with a willingness to roll your sleeves up when needed.
• This is a collaborative environment where personality and attitude are just as important as technical capability.
• Candidates based in South Manchester or the surrounding areas will be particularly well suited given the requirement to attend the office three days per week.
• Job Offer Competitive daily rate ranging from £400 to £475 per day.
• Inside IR35. 3 Month contract (Likely Extension). 2-3 days on-site.
• This is an excellent opportunity for an Interim IT Operations Manager to contribute their expertise to a reputable organisation.
• If you have the required skills and experience, we encourage you to apply today