Information Technology Manager

Also known as:

Manager, IT
IT Manager
Chief Information Officer (IT)

Introduction

Information technology (IT) managers have overall responsibility for the use of IT within an organisation. They work with systems analysts to improve computer systems. They manage databases, organise staff training, manage budgets, arrange computer maintenance and make sure there are back-up systems in case of IT faults.

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Work Activities

Information technology managers make sure that computer departments run smoothly and efficiently.

IT managers must make sure the company has the right equipment it needs to be as efficient as possible. They need a sound knowledge of IT systems and must keep up-to-date with new technology.

They are likely to be in charge of a budget, to buy the most appropriate technology for the company, so they also need business skills. They work closely with equipment suppliers, negotiating purchases and aftersales services, like technical support in case of faults in the equipment.

IT managers also keep a close watch on the technology the company already has. They identify areas where new technology could improve efficiency.

Information technology managers work as closely with people as they do with machines. They make sure staff are properly trained and supported in their use of IT. They arrange training so that the systems or software products are used effectively.

IT managers set quality standards, and make sure work is done within deadlines and budget limitations.

They are also responsible for the accuracy and security of data within the organisation. A strict data protection law controls the use and security of information held on databases and the manager must make sure only authorised people can look at the data. Members of the public have the right to access information about them on a company's database, and managers might have to negotiate this with them.

IT managers must be able to cope quickly and efficiently if there are problems with the company's computer systems. They must set up back-up systems to make sure no data is lost if there is a fault.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

To be an information technology manager, you must have a broad and up-to-date knowledge of computer systems and software products.

You need good communication skills, to negotiate with suppliers and to work closely with people throughout the organisation. You must be able to explain things clearly to people who may not have a technical background, and be able to ask the right questions to assess their training needs.

Good organisational skills are needed to plan work, arrange meetings with other professionals (such as computer trainers) and to set deadlines and targets.

You must be able to cope well under pressure, for example, if the system develops a fault.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

IT managers earn in the range of £26,000 - £33,000 a year, rising to £43,500 - £58,500. Higher earners can make around £77,000 a year.

Salaries may include performance related pay, profit sharing or company bonuses.

IT managers usually work 35-37 hours Monday to Friday, though late finishes may sometimes be necessary.

There are jobs throughout the UK, in industry and commerce, including banks, building societies and insurance companies, and in the public sector with local authorities, central government, the National Health Service (NHS) and public utilities.

Some experienced IT managers work as consultants, usually on short term contracts.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some employers will consider applicants with relevant skills, even if they lack the usual academic or professional qualifications for entry.

These skills could be gained as a systems designer/programmer, engineer or analyst, with a focus on one or more specialised areas of IT, such as networks or databases.

Experience as a team leader can be an advantage for entry into management-level posts.

For senior posts, taking the MBA (Master of Business Administration) can be an advantage.

A range of manufacturer accredited courses is available on an intensive basis, often flexible and part-time, including evenings and weekends.

The British Computer Society offers the Professional Examination Certificate, Diploma and Graduate Diploma by distance learning.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course, eg, Access to IT/Computing, could be the way in. These courses are designed for people who have not followed the usual routes into higher education. No formal qualifications are usually needed, but you should check this with individual colleges.

• 6% of people in occupations such as information technology manager are self-employed.
• 4% work part-time.
• 17% have flexible hours.
• 1% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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