Information Technology Operations Manager

Position Summary:

GCC Connect is seeking a highly experienced and strategic IT Operations professional to lead our internal IT infrastructure and operations. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring the reliability, performance, and security of all IT systems and services that underpin GCC Connect's platform, events, and day-to-day operations. This role requires a visionary leader with a deep understanding of modern IT infrastructure, cloud technologies, cybersecurity, and operational best practices, capable of driving efficiency, innovation, and scalability to support our dynamic and growing ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership & Management:
• Develop and execute the IT operations strategy in alignment with GCC Connect's mission and growth objectives.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing IT operations team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Manage IT operational budgets, resource allocation, and key vendor relationships effectively.
• Establish and enforce robust IT policies, procedures, and governance frameworks.

Infrastructure & Platform Management:

• Oversee the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of all internal IT infrastructure, including network, server, storage, and collaboration tools.
• Manage and optimize our cloud infrastructure (e.g., for web platforms, data analytics, internal applications) ensuring high availability, performance, and cost efficiency.
• Ensure the smooth operation and reliability of all digital platforms and tools critical for GCC Connect's events, content delivery, and community engagement.
• Drive infrastructure modernization initiatives, leveraging new technologies to enhance efficiency and capabilities.

Operational Excellence & Reliability:

• Implement and manage advanced monitoring, alerting, and incident response systems for proactive issue identification and resolution.
• Develop, maintain, and regularly test disaster recovery and business continuity plans for critical IT systems.
• Define, track, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and service level agreements (SLAs) for IT operations.
• Champion continuous improvement processes within IT operations to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve user experience.

Security & Compliance:

• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to implement and enforce stringent security policies and controls across all IT infrastructure and operations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant data protection regulations and industry best practices.
• Manage vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and contribute to security audits.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Work closely with cross-functional teams (e.g., events, content, partnerships) to understand their IT needs and provide seamless support.
• Communicate IT operational performance, challenges, and strategic initiatives to senior management and key stakeholders.
• Act as a key technical advisor for IT operations in discussions related to new platform features, partnerships, or technology integrations.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in IT operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role (Head of Operations, Director of IT, or similar).
• Proven experience in managing IT infrastructure for a dynamic organization, with significant reliance on cloud environments (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Strong understanding of network architecture, server management (virtualization and containers), storage solutions, and SaaS application management.
• In-depth knowledge of ITIL framework and practical experience in implementing IT service management (ITSM) best practices.
• Demonstrated experience with cybersecurity principles, risk management, and data privacy.
• Proficiency in scripting and automation tools relevant to IT operations.
• Experience with monitoring tools and incident management platforms.
• Excellent leadership, communication (written and verbal), interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, and event-driven environment, managing multiple priorities effectively.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with or within the Global Capability Center (GCC) ecosystem.
• Certifications in cloud platforms (e.g., AWS Certified SysOps Administrator, Azure Administrator Associate).
• Certifications in project management (PMP) or IT security (CISSP, CISM).
• Experience with managing IT for large-scale events or digital platforms with high user engagement.

info@gccconnect.org.