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Job Description: Head of IT Solutions & InfrastructurePosition: Head of IT Solutions & InfrastructureDesignations: GM/AVP Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Location:Delhi NCR (Gurgaon) Type: Full-timeRole OverviewThe Head of IT Solutions & Infrastructure will lead the institution’s technology vision, strategy, and execution, ensuring the seamless delivery of IT services and solutions to support education and operational goals. This role encompasses commissioning custom software development, managing enterprise IT infrastructure, customizing software products like CRM, ERP, and learning platforms, and driving technology decisions on build vs. buy vs. lease options. The position also includes responsibilities for data management, cybersecurity, IT policy, and providing technical support to employees while ensuring compliance with industry standards.Key ResponsibilitiesIT Strategy and Solutions Development:Define and implement an IT strategy aligned with the institution's operational and educational objectives.Commission the development of custom software solutions and customize off-the-shelf products (e.g., CRM, ERP, Learning Management Systems) to address specific needs.Evaluate build vs. buy vs. lease options for technology solutions, ensuring cost-effectiveness and scalability.Enterprise IT Infrastructure Management:Oversee the deployment, configuration, and maintenance of IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and cloud environments.Evaluate licensing options and vendor agreements to optimize costs and maintain compliance.Manage IT protocols and policies, ensuring robust infrastructure performance and security.Data Management and Cybersecurity:Establish and manage data lakes for efficient data storage, integration, and analysis.Ensure data privacy and compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR, , local data laws).Develop and enforce robust cybersecurity protocols to protect institutional data and IT systems from threats.Platform Administration and Optimization:Lead a team of administrators for various tech platforms, including CRM, ERP, and learning platforms, ensuring high availability and performance.Optimize user experiences for both students and staff by customizing and integrating learning and operational platforms.IT Policy and Governance:Develop and enforce IT policies, including acceptable use, data security, and software licensing policies.Establish IT governance frameworks to ensure alignment with institutional goals and compliance with industry standards.Technology Support and User Services:Provide reliable tech support to employees, ensuring resolution of technical issues and high user satisfaction.Implement a support ticketing system to track and resolve IT-related issues efficiently.Technology Procurement and Vendor Management:Evaluate and select technology vendors and solutions, negotiating contracts to ensure favourable terms.Regularly review vendor performance and service levels, making adjustments as needed.Innovation and Emerging Technologies:Stay updated on emerging technologies and trends to drive innovation and competitiveness.Pilot and implement innovative solutions to enhance the institution’s technological capabilities.Leadership and Collaboration:Lead and mentor a team of IT professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning.Collaborate with other departments, including academics, operations, and marketing, to align IT initiatives with institutional goals.Monitoring and Reporting:Track key IT performance metrics, preparing reports for leadership on system performance, project status, and risk management.Continuously assess the effectiveness of IT solutions and recommend improvements.Qualifications and SkillsEducational Background:Bachelor’s degree in Engineering preferably in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.Master’s degree in IT or related field such as MBA systems is desirable but not mandatory. Experience:15 – 20 years of experience in IT leadership roles, at reputed, progressive, modern and customer oriented organizations such as reputed educational institutions, Edtech companies, BFSI, Airlines, Healthcare with proven track record overall IT function management encompassing Infrastructure Management, commissioning and managing custom software development projects and deployment and operating enterprise wide IT systems.Skills and Competencies:Customer Orientation: Strong focus on understanding and addressing user needs, ensuring IT solutions enhance the experience of both internal and external stakeholders.Collaboration and Teamwork: Exceptional ability to collaborate across departments, fostering alignment between IT and academic, admissions, and marketing functions to achieve institutional goals.Positive Regard and Empathy: High levels of empathy and respect for colleagues and stakeholders, creating a supportive and inclusive IT environment.Platform Customization Expertise: Advanced expertise in customizing and optimizing CRM, ERP, and LMS platforms to meet institutional needs.Data Management and Cybersecurity: Comprehensive knowledge of data management frameworks, data lakes, and cybersecurity best practices to ensure secure and efficient operations.IT Governance and Compliance: Proficiency in IT governance, policy development, and adherence to regulatory standards to maintain operational integrity.Project Management Excellence: Demonstrated experience with project management and technology evaluation methodologies (e.g., Agile, ITIL), delivering projects on time and within budget.Strategic Vision: Ability to align IT initiatives with the broader strategic objectives of the institution, driving innovation and operational efficiency.Leadership and Communication: Strong leadership skills to guide IT teams effectively, coupled with excellent communication abilities to engage diverse stakeholders.Problem Solving and Decision Making: Analytical and solution-oriented mindset to anticipate challenges and implement robust, scalable IT solutions.Innovation-Driven: Creative and forward-thinking approach to leverage emerging technologies for competitive advantage.Integrity and Accountability: Commitment to ethical IT practices and accountability in delivering reliable and transparent IT services