Job Description

We are currently recruiting for an experienced, hands-on IT Operations Manager to lead day-to-day IT operations and help build a reliable, scalable in-house IT service.

You’ll initially lead the transition from our Managed Service Provider (MSP) to an in-house model, taking ownership of IT infrastructure, service delivery, cybersecurity and supplier relationships. As the team grows, you’ll recruit and develop IT support colleagues while continuing to provide hands-on technical support.

Based with our new IT team in Warrington, this is an exciting opportunity to shape our IT function and support our growing, multi-site organisation.

About animal Trust

Animal Trust stands out from other veterinary services. Firstly, we are a unique Community Interest Company, being the only veterinary CIC in the UK to date. Our primary focus isn't solely on maximising profits; instead, we are dedicated to delivering on our mission and ensuring enough profit to sustain our business in the long term.

Key responsibilities

• Lead IT operations, support and service delivery across Animal Trust.
• Manage the transition of appropriate services from our MSP to an in-house model.
• Provide hands-on technical support and escalation for complex issues.
• Oversee IT infrastructure, Microsoft 365, networks, devices and cybersecurity.
• Manage IT suppliers, contracts, budgets, procurement and assets.
• Develop IT processes, documentation and service improvements.
• Support site visits, infrastructure changes and new site openings.
• Recruit, manage and develop IT support colleagues as the team grows.
• Work closely with the Platform Manager, maintaining sufficient HaloITSM knowledge to provide operational cover.
• Participate in the on-call rota for critical out-of-hours issues.

About you

Essential:

• Strong IT operations and service delivery experience, ideally in a multi-site organisation.
• Hands-on knowledge of Microsoft 365, networks, devices and infrastructure.
• Experience managing IT support, escalations, suppliers and service performance.
• Experience managing IT budgets, procurement and CAPEX/OPEX.
• Good understanding of cybersecurity, access management and business continuity.
• Strong troubleshooting, project management and stakeholder-management skills.
• Relevant Microsoft 365/Azure experience or certification.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and learning.
• Clean driving licence, access to a vehicle and ability to travel between sites.
• Located within reasonable travelling distance of Warrington.

Desirable:

• IT, ITIL, project management or security qualifications.
• Experience bringing outsourced IT services in-house.
• Experience managing IT support teams or supporting new site openings.
• Experience with HaloITSM or similar platforms.

Job details

• Location: Warrington, with travel to other sites as required
• Contract: Full-time - Permanent
• Hours: Monday to Friday - 40 hours per week (share of On-Call duties required)
• Closing date: Friday 20 November 2026

We are an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and supported.