Head of Technical Architecture and Projects (Infrastructure Services)

Grade 10

Reporting to the Director of Infrastructure Services, the post holder is the head of a  group that is key to the development of University IT services and technical strategy. The post holder plays a leading role in IT Services and has key responsibilities in the development of technical strategy and the University’s long-term IT Strategic Plan.

The post holder is a recognised authority in developing technical strategy and in the design and development of IT services. The post holder manages effective relationships between service owners, development partners and technical leaders.

The post holder leads teams of highly trained professionals either directly or as part of a matrix management approach, contributing to the overarching vision, and managing staff performance.

Essential selection criteria

  • Knowledge, intellectual capacity, reasoning and analytical skills equivalent to those of a graduate
  • Outstanding record of developing and delivering IT services at a senior management level, preferably in a higher education setting
  • Demonstrable experience in directing technical strategy and/or developing technical architecture capability, preferably within a complex organisation and across multiple platforms and applications
  • Deep understanding of systems integration and technical standards for interoperability
  • Significant experience in leading cross-functional teams and enterprise-wide programmes, operating and influencing effectively across the organisation
  • Significant experience of managing staff performance, training and development, including teams in a matrix organisation
  • Proven record of effective relationship management, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with staff in all areas of the University
  • Clear understanding of the research, teaching, and administrative processes of a higher education institution and how IT supports this
  • Experience of financial management, in particular, budget oversight, contract negotiation and developing and maintaining supplier relationships
  • Excellent communication skills including the ability to convey complex concepts with clarity and in a manner appropriate to the audience, and to command the confidence of both the IT and academic communities
  • Extensive knowledge of current directions in IT, and a strong commitment to self-development

Desirable selection criteria

  • Qualification, accreditation or evidence of formal training in technical architecture together with demonstrable knowledge of methodologies for IT service management and project / programme management
  • Experience and broad understanding of leading technical strategy and design in a hybrid cloud environment
  • Demonstrable understanding of financial implications of technical design, including different software licensing models
  • Successful experience of prioritising and delivering significant programmes of infrastructure upgrades or replacements
  • Proven record of developing business cases for funding within an IT service environment

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