IT Manager looking to step-up IT Director

Full Time – Hybrid – Asheville, North Carolina, United States

Salary: Circa $150K bonuses, and benefits package.

About Our Client: Our client is a civil engineering firm dedicated to strengthening the communities they serve across North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Virginia. Since 1984, they have built long‑term partnerships by delivering high‑impact engineering solutions and fostering a culture where their people thrive. They offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and flexible hybrid schedules to support a healthy work/life balance.

Role Overview

Looking to take that leap from IT Manager to IT Director then this role could be for you. We are looking for an IT Manager who is ready to move to an IT Directorate level. Someone who will lead our client’s technology strategy, operations, and infrastructure across all office locations. This role is responsible for shaping the long‑term IT roadmap, ensuring secure and reliable systems, managing external IT partners, and delivering an exceptional end‑user experience. You will oversee all aspects of IT planning, operations, cybersecurity, and team leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning

Lead strategic and operational planning for IT, fostering innovation and aligning technology with business goals.
Develop and maintain an enterprise‑wide IT roadmap in collaboration with the VP of Administration (VPA), President, and key stakeholders.
Benchmark and evaluate IT infrastructure, systems, and processes; recommend improvements and growth opportunities.
Introduce new tools, technologies, and AI‑driven solutions to enhance productivity and operational efficiency.
Establish and maintain IT policies, procedures, and governance frameworks.
Build, mentor, and develop a high‑performing IT team.
Oversee procurement of all IT hardware, software, and related services.

Technical Expertise

Stay current with emerging technologies and AEC‑industry advancements to maintain a competitive edge.
Maintain expertise in file management platforms (e.g., Egnyte).
Leverage external technical partners to ensure security, reliability, and user satisfaction.
Ensure system availability, scalability, redundancy, and security across all business units.

Operational Management

Lead day‑to‑day IT operations, including networks, storage, software applications, printers, phones, and end‑user devices.
Plan and manage system updates, upgrades, migrations, and outages.
Ensure security of IT assets, data, network access, and backup systems.
Manage relationships with external IT service providers.
Develop and enforce cybersecurity policies and protocols.
Create SOPs with the VPA for user account management and timely communication with external providers.
Oversee the Egnyte file management contract and system usage.

Budgeting & Financial Oversight

Develop long‑ and short‑term IT investment plans aligned with organizational objectives.
Prepare and manage the annual IT budget, including hardware, software, and service providers.
Evaluate and recommend vendor agreements for communications, storage, maintenance, and support services.
Monitor vendor performance and ensure cost‑effective, high‑quality service delivery.
Maintain accurate asset management records for all IT equipment and software.

End‑User Experience & Communication

Serve as the primary liaison between IT, internal departments, and external service providers.
Communicate IT strategies, updates, and issues through the VPA, President, and HR Director.
Schedule upgrades and service interruptions during non‑business hours when possible.
Coordinate IT team travel to all client locations to ensure consistent support.
Lead response efforts during outages or service interruptions, including communication with affected staff and leadership.

Reporting

Provide regular updates to the VPA and President on:

System health and status of critical IT assets
Progress on IT initiatives and projects
Budget performance and financial outlook
Service levels, outages, recovery efforts, and vendor performance
Any negligent or risky behaviours impacting IT systems or security

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, MIS, or equivalent experience.
10+ years of progressive IT leadership experience preferred.
Deep knowledge of IT infrastructure, systems, and software applications.
Strong understanding of IT security best practices and compliance requirements.
Proven ability to develop and execute IT strategies aligned with business goals.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong vendor management and project prioritisation capabilities.
Valid driver’s licence.

Benefits

Flexible and hybrid work schedules (role requires on‑site collaboration; not suitable for fully remote work).
Competitive salary, bonuses, and benefits package.
Employer‑paid health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

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