IT Manager

IT Manager Harrison Drury is a market‑leading firm of solicitors with offices across Lancashire, Cumbria and Staffordshire. We’re proud to be named one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work For for the third year running, placing 40th in the Top 100 Best Mid‑Sized Companies and 10th in the Best Companies to Work For in the Law Sector. These achievements reflect our commitment to creating a supportive, people‑focused workplace where colleagues can thrive. With over 125 years of history, we’re a well‑established firm, but we’re also in an exciting period of growth, with the energy and ambition of a modern, fast‑developing business. It’s a fantastic time to join us. About the Role We’re looking for an experienced IT Manager to lead our day‑to‑day IT operations, service delivery, infrastructure, cloud services, suppliers, cyber security and the IT support team. This is a key leadership role within our Operations function, ensuring our technology environment is reliable, secure and aligned with the needs of a fast‑growing professional services business. You’ll take ownership of the full IT estate — systems, services, software and suppliers — while driving improvements, strengthening governance, and delivering well‑planned projects that support our future growth. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Ensure IT and communications systems operate effectively with minimal downtime. Maintain high standards of IT service management and user support. Plan and coordinate IT activities with minimal business disruption. Ensure the team is resourced to provide technical support during all working hours. Act as an escalation point for complex issues and challenges. Manage, coach and develop the IT team to ensure HD has the capabilities to meet its objectives. Technology Delivery & Improvement Lead and oversee delivery of the HD IT business plan. Support implementation of new hardware, software and integrations. Manage vendor identification, selection and ongoing supplier relationships. Drive enhancements to existing systems and infrastructure. Proactively identify risks, inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. Strategic Contribution Attend Management Operations Board meetings as required. Input into the technology roadmap, planning and strategy. Design and manage IT projects and change programmes. Develop processes and procedures that support growth, automation and efficiency. Work collaboratively with operational and service line teams to identify IT‑based solutions. Essential Experience Substantial experience as an IT lead or manager, ideally within professional services. Strong background in delivering IT and communications solutions in a fast‑growing, systems‑reliant business. Experience in risk management, cyber security and large‑scale change/project management. Proven line management experience with strong leadership skills. Excellent understanding of IT standards, practices and processes. Experience with Office 365 administration, Intune, Entra, conditional access policies and modern workplace technologies. Experience with networking, systems and infrastructure (connectivity, telephony, servers, backups). Cloud migration experience (advantageous). Desirable Experience Experience working in the legal sector. Understanding of the software development lifecycle. Experience managing external IT service providers. Experience working within ITSM environments (e.g., ITIL). Qualifications / Technical Competencies IT‑related degree or equivalent experience/accreditation. Strong understanding of data protection legislation and best practice. ITIL or similar qualification. Project management experience or qualification. Behavioural Competencies Strategic thinker with the ability to translate plans into operational objectives. Excellent communication and influencing skills. High levels of customer service and proactive identification of technology improvements. Positive leadership style and strong problem‑solving ability. Demonstrates HD’s values in everyday working life: Outstanding service Collaboration and constructive engagement Honest and respectful communication Commitment to learning and development Accountability for personal objectives Acts as a champion for our values and a role model for the wider team Benefits At Harrison Drury, we believe in rewarding our people and supporting their wellbeing. Benefits include: Hybrid working policy Employee bonus scheme and annual pay review Medicash health benefits cash plan and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Increasing holiday entitlement with length of service Paid time off for voluntary work (2 days per year) Free conveyancing for the purchase/sale of your primary residence Free individual or mirror Wills Employee referral scheme Biannual promotion and salary uplift application process Regular social events, including our annual Christmas party and staff recognition awards Why Join Us? Be part of an award‑winning, people‑focused firm. Work alongside recognised experts in the field. Enjoy a supportive culture that invests in development and wellbeing. Flexible working arrangements to suit your lifestyle. Opportunity to make a real impact in a growing team. Department IT Role Head of IT Location Preston Remote status Hybrid Employment type Full-time About Harrison Drury Harrison Drury is a people business with relationships at its heart. We deliver legal services as trusted legal partners to businesses, individuals and families across Lancashire, Cumbria, Manchester, Merseyside and Staffordshire. Founded in 1901 Applicant tracking system by Teamtailor