Head of IT - Data & Applications

Swiss Cottage
3 weeks ago
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MLC Partners are proud to be working in exclusive partnership with a prestigious higher education institution in North London to appoint a Head of IT – Applications and Data. This is a pivotal leadership role at the heart of a forward-thinking IT function, driving digital transformation, systems integration, and data innovation.

About the Role

This newly designed position is both hands-on and strategic, ideal for someone looking to take ownership of enterprise applications, data platforms, and digital services across a complex and dynamic academic environment.

You’ll play a critical role in managing the institution’s data and insights functions, shaping the systems architecture, and ensuring robust, scalable and user-centric IT services. You’ll lead a small internal team while overseeing relationships with external technology providers to deliver a high-quality, compliant, and future-focused IT landscape.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and optimise enterprise applications and data platforms, minimising downtime and enhancing performance.

  • Oversee data governance, business intelligence, and analytics across the organisation.

  • Architect integrated systems aligned to business and academic priorities.

  • Manage and support institutional applications, acting as a key escalation point.

  • Ensure GDPR compliance and cybersecurity in all IT solutions.

  • Champion innovation through automation, cloud technologies, and advanced analytics.

  • Line manage and develop a specialist team, promoting a culture of service excellence.

    About You

    We are seeking a confident and collaborative IT leader who brings:

  • A degree in IT, Data Science, Computer Science or related field (or equivalent experience).

  • Proven experience leading IT teams and driving digital transformation.

  • Strong technical expertise in enterprise applications, integration, and data platforms.

  • A sound understanding of GDPR, data protection, and IT governance.

  • Strong experience with the full suite of Microsoft's SQL Server Business Intelligence (BI) platform (SSIS, SSRS and SSAS)

  • Familiarity with cloud-based services (e.g., AWS, Azure), APIs, automation, and analytics tools like Power BI or Tableau.

  • Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.

    Professional certifications such as TOGAF, ITIL, PRINCE2/Agile, or CDMP are advantageous.

    What You’ll Get in Return

  • 35 days annual leave + bank holidays + additional closure days.

  • Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme with employer contributions up to 14.8%.

  • Flexible hybrid working arrangements.

  • Support for ongoing professional development and training.

  • Cycle to Work scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, interest-free season ticket loan.

  • A collaborative, inclusive, and creative working culture

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