IT Manager

Location: Durham, NC
Reports To: Executive Staff

Job Summary

Strawbridge Studios, Inc., a trusted leader in school photography and imaging solutions for over 100 years, is seeking a forward-thinking IT Manager to lead our information technology strategy and operations. This role focuses on aligning IT initiatives with company objectives, helping build and develop team member skills, and growing an IT department along with a growing business.

The IT Manager will work closely with senior leadership to design and implement scalable systems and processes that enhance operational efficiency and data security across the company.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for IT initiatives to support business goals and future growth.
• Lead and mentor the IT team, fostering a culture of excellence through teamwork, innovation, and a growth mindset.
• Partner with the General Manager and executive team to plan and execute long-term technology roadmaps.
• Prioritizes work based on business needs. Must be flexible and capable of navigating employee resources.
• Develop and enforce IT policies, procedures, and standards to ensure SOC 2 compliance and data security.
• Oversee IT infrastructure, applications, and vendor relationships with a focus on scalability and reliability.
• Manage IT budgets and coordinate with the Vice President regarding forecasting and resource allocation to align with organizational priorities.
• Establish performance metrics and reporting systems to monitor IT effectiveness.
• Collaborate with business units to identify technology opportunities and streamline processes.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies, security threats, and best practices to proactively strengthen systems.
• Ensure the company’s data handling practices exceed regulatory and customer expectations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Looking for a strong leader who likes working with people, finding solutions to any problem, and who is an advocate for departmental and interdepartmental teamwork.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• 7+ years of progressive IT experience, including leadership responsibilities.
• Proven ability to lead IT strategy development and execution.
• Strong knowledge of compliance frameworks, including SOC 2, GDPR, and other data security standards.
• Demonstrated success in managing IT budgets and vendor relationships.
• Ability to balance strategic vision with practical implementation.
• Experience in school photography, imaging, or seasonal production environments a plus.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to shape IT strategy for a 100+ year legacy organization.
• Leave your mark on an organization and grow yourself.
• Competitive salary and executive benefits package.
• A leadership role in a mission-driven company with strong community values.
• Professional growth in a collaborative and supportive environment.
• Reporting any suspicious activity or data concerns to management immediately