Head of IT

Head of IT / Director of Technology

Reporting To: Principal, Head of School, or Executive Director of Operations

Summary: The Head of IT is the strategic and operational leader responsible for all technology within the Academy. This role ensures that the technology infrastructure is robust, secure, and seamlessly integrates with and enhances both academic instruction and administrative efficiency. The successful candidate will drive the strategic vision for technology use in teaching and learning.

Key Responsibilities

1. Technology Vision & Academic Integration

• Instructional Technology Strategy: Develop and execute a comprehensive technology roadmap that supports the Academy's curriculum goals and fosters 21st-century skills for students.
• Educational Technology (EdTech) Leadership: Collaborate closely with the Head of Teaching and Learning and faculty to research, evaluate, and implement innovative tools (LMS, interactive displays, specialized software) that transform classroom learning.
• Professional Development: Design and deliver professional training for teachers and staff on the effective and ethical use of new and existing technologies.

2. Infrastructure & Systems Management

• Network & Systems: Oversee the planning, installation, maintenance, and security of the entire network infrastructure (LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi), servers, and cloud environments.
• Administrative Systems: Manage critical school systems, including the Student Information System (SIS), Learning Management System (LMS), and internal administrative software.
• Device Management: Lead the strategy and deployment for school-owned devices (1:1 programs, computer labs, staff laptops) including asset tracking, imaging, and repair.
• Helpdesk & Support: Supervise the IT Support team to ensure timely resolution of all technical issues for students, staff, and faculty, using a best-in-class ticketing system.

3. Security, Data, & Compliance

• Data Privacy (GDPR/FERPA): Ensure all technology practices and systems strictly comply with educational data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, FERPA, or local laws).
• Cybersecurity: Develop and manage a robust cybersecurity program, including firewalls, filtering, regular staff training, and protocols for incident response.
• Digital Citizenship: Collaborate with school leadership to promote and enforce policies on safe, responsible, and ethical use of technology by all students and staff.

4. Leadership & Administration

• Budget Management: Prepare and manage the annual IT operating and capital budgets, ensuring all technology expenditures provide value for money and align with strategic priorities.
• Vendor & Contract Management: Oversee relationships with all technology vendors, manage software licensing, and negotiate new contracts.
• Staff Leadership: Lead, mentor, and evaluate the performance of all IT department personnel.
• Business Continuity: Maintain and regularly test the disaster recovery plan for all critical data and systems.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. A Master's degree or certifications (e.g., ITIL, PMP) is often preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 5-8 years of progressive IT experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role, preferably within an educational environment (K-12 or Higher Education).
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of school-specific technology needs, including Student Information Systems (SIS), classroom technologies (e.g., projectors, interactive whiteboards), and instructional software.
• Soft Skills:
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts for educators, administrators, and parents.
• Strong project management and strategic planning abilities.
• A passion for educational technology and supporting student outcomes.

Must be able to immediately join**

Interested candidate can share their CV at info@vgaholdings or can message on WhatsApp +973 66621566

Job Type: Full-time