The role of IT Manager

The IT Manager in all types of corporations carries a great deal of responsibility, centred mainly on organising, implementing, and maintaining the computer systems, networks and applications that help to run the company’s operations. The focus will differ slightly from one business to another, but in most cases, it will also include managing a team of IT professionals as well. What is the role of a manager? For a comprehensive IT Manager job description, read on.

IT Manager responsibilities and duties

There are many duties that fall to the IT Manager. IT Manager responsibilities included in the IT Manager position description may include:

• Ensuring the accuracy and integrity of relevant hardware and software applications
• Checking security of the system on a regular basis
• Implementing training schedules for all members of the team and on occasion for other employees
• Arranging for regular audits of the system, often in collaboration with an IT Auditor
• Managing annual budgets for the department and reporting such information to senior management
• Instigating and managing major IT projects in accordance according to business needs and budget restrictions, including system updates and migrations
• Assessing opportunities for improvement via inspirational leadership and innovations in IT products and processes

Qualities needed for a successful IT Manager

The most successful IT Managers possess a varied range of personal qualities, including the ability to manage and motivate people in a positive and rewarding way. IT departments tend to feature an often-disparate group of talented individuals, and it is important for the Manager to bring them together in a cohesive manner for the team to obtain the desired goals.

Time management will also be a requisite quality, especially when installing new systems and end users are getting used to the way they work - this includes project management skills. There will be times when IT Managers must explain new technologies to others, including senior management, so effective skills in communications will be of particular importance.

This is also a role in which a firm grasp of IT infrastructures and how they affect the business is a must. Sound knowledge of existing applications is a requirement, of course, but there is also a need to keep a close eye on new innovations in information technology as and when they come along. This is a challenging role, and it calls for someone with a multitude of talents and critical thinking abilities.

Qualifications and technical skills - How to become an IT Manager?

While much of an IT Manager’s role may be centred on managing projects, members of the IT department, and business processes, there are several technical abilities that the individual should be able to call upon. Knowledge of issues such as programming languages, operating systems, legal compliance, cybersecurity, network administration, data analysis and project management may all be sought out by potential employers.

Required qualifications can differ from role to role, but in general a realistic candidate will need previous experience of working in IT operations as well as a bachelor’s degree at minimum. This needs to be in a relevant subject such as computer science, information technology, information systems, business management or digital media. Experience in leading project teams in a similar discipline can also be advantageous.

Career development - What is the next step after IT Manager?

Those who go on to become IT Managers often do so via working as a Software Engineer, Program Manager, Full Stack Developer or Project Manager. Then further along the career path come opportunities to work in roles such as Senior IT Manager, IT Director, Director of IT Services and Chief Information Officer.

Salary and remuneration - How much does an IT Manager make?

With the ever-increasing demand and complexity of the IT industry, competently managing the technical aspect of a business is critical. Consequently, many companies are willing to pay top dollar for effective IT Management. 

The average annual salary for an IT manager in Australia can range anywhere between $113,373 up to $160,000 depending on experience level. This equates to an hourly rate of around $66.92 per hour. 

Whether you’re looking to launch into a new career or have years of experience under your belt, an IT Manager role is one with great financial incentives.

Is there demand for IT Managers in Australia?

IT managers in Australia stand to benefit from the consistently growing job market. According to recent government reports, the computer science industry is expected to grow at more than twice the rate of the overall job market in Australia. This sustained growth implies that those with expertise in IT management will be highly sought after and have no shortage of job opportunities.