Head of IT (IT director)

You can start by doing a degree or postgraduate qualification in a subject like:

• computing
• information systems
• project management
• business management

You'd then apply to join a graduate training scheme with a company to get the experience and skills required to manage IT projects at senior level.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You may be able to become a head of IT by doing a senior leader postgraduate degree apprenticeship.

You'll normally already be working at a senior management level to do this.

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

More Information

• guide to apprenticeships

You can apply directly for jobs. You'll usually need at least 2 years' experience of working at senior management level in IT. You may also need further qualifications or certification with a professional body.

Further information

You'll find more on careers in computing through The Chartered Institute for IT.

You'll need:

• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• customer service skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• analytical thinking skills
• to be flexible and open to change
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

In this role you could be

• planning policies and procedures
• making decisions about the organisation’s priorities
• assessing current and future business costs, risks and opportunities
• negotiating business contracts and monitoring how these are delivered
• making sure procedures meet legal requirements and technical standards
• meeting regularly with the senior management team, partners and clients
• keeping up to date with trends in IT
• managing budgets

You could work in an office.