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Head of IT (IT director)

Alternative titles for this job include Head of computer services, chief information officer

IT directors manage the development of IT systems for their organisation and its customers.

Average salary (a year)

£55,000 Starter

to

£140,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

38 to 40 a week

You could work

between 8am and 6pm

How to become a head of IT (IT director)

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly

University

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:

  • 5 GCSEs at grade 9 to 4 (A* to C) or above and 2 to 3 A levels
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More information

Apprenticeship

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

Direct application

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.

More information

Further information

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

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

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

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

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

Working environment

You could work in an office.

Career path and progression

With experience, you may be able to become a chief executive or chair of an organisation.

You could also work as an IT consultant or start your own business.

Training opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

Software Engineer Degree Apprentice

  • Wage : £160.95 - £303.77 Weekly
  • Location: Horsham RH13 0SZ

Software Engineer Apprentice

  • Wage : £16,000.00 - £18,000.00 Annually
  • Location: London NW2 5PJ
Find apprenticeships near you

Courses In England

Information Technology

  • Provider: Rutlish School
  • Start date: 02 September 2019
  • Location: London

BTEC National Extended Certificate in Information Technology

  • Provider: The de Ferrers Academy
  • Start date: 05 September 2019
  • Location: Burton on Trent
Find courses near you

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