Head of IT Services (internal), Infrastructure and Digital Services

**This vacancy is only available to existing University of Essex staff**

Infrastructure and Digital Services (IDS)

The University of Essex is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of IT Services to join the Infrastructure and Digital Services (IDS) senior leadership team to help drive digital transformation and enhance our services.

About the Role

As the Head of IT Services, you will be at the forefront of efforts to modernise and streamline our digital services. You will lead a talented group of approximately 33 professionals across five teams, overseeing the infrastructure, audio-visual and end-user technologies that support teaching, research and University operations. Your strategic vision, leadership and sound management of IT Services revenue and capital budgets will be crucial in ensuring that our technology infrastructure meets the evolving needs of our students, researchers and staff.

The role holder will collaborate with colleagues across the University to ensure high-quality service delivery and that ongoing developments contribute to the University of Essex’s strategy by aligning with the objectives of our departmental strategic direction.

The role is based at our Colchester campus and will need to be flexible and able to work out of hours. Periodic travel to other campuses may be required. We welcome flexible working arrangements.

Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior IT leadership role.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Strong strategic planning, budget management and project management skills.
• A track record of successfully implementing digital solutions in a complex organisation.
• Strong IT fundamentals and a broad knowledge of IT infrastructure and computing services that support teaching and research.

Why Join Us?

At the University of Essex, we are committed to excellence in education and research. You will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on our technological landscape and to contribute to the success of our vibrant community.

How to Apply

Please complete the attached application form and send to resourcing@essex.ac.uk before the closing date of 2 November 2026 (23:59, UK time).

At the University of Essex, internationalism and diversity is central to who we are and what we do. We are committed to being a cosmopolitan, internationally oriented university that is welcoming to staff and students from all countries, faiths and backgrounds, where you can find the world in one place.

To support this commitment we have our Global Forum, a staff-led network that promotes and celebrates the rich cultural diversity among Essex staff, and our Colchester campus based Faith Centre, which hosts regular services, meetings and events organised by our chaplains and faith representatives. For more information see: https://www.essex.ac.uk/life/student-facilities/religion-and-faith.

Please see the attached job pack, which contains a full job description and requirements needed for this role plus more information relating to the post. We recommend you read this information carefully before making an application. Applications should be made via email, but if you need information in a different format, please email the Resourcing Team (resourcing@essex.ac.uk)

*More information: Working at the University