Head of IT

United Gas & Power (UGP) is a fast growing UK business energy supplier known for outstanding customer service and innovation. As UGP continues to scale, a modern, secure, cloud led technology is at the heart of delivering exceptional service, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance in the dynamic UK energy market. The Head of IT is accountable for the smooth running of the IT department and delivering UGPs technology strategy. You will be responsible for all IT services, systems and staff covering IT Operations, Software Development, Business Intelligence, Business Change, and Project Delivery, and will ensure that UGPs technology platform based on Microsoft Azure, is secure, performant, and optimised to support operational excellence and strategic growth. To be considered for this role, you will need to be an experienced Head of IT, or have had extensive experience working in a similar senior IT management role. You will need to have a technical background, and ideally, experience of working in the UK Energy and Utilities sector. Responsibilities Technical Management Assist the IT Director in building UGPs technology roadmap Promote modern technologies, innovation and excellence Provide technical leadership and guidance IT Operations and Security Oversee UGP’s technology estate, ensuring the stability, security, performance, and scalability of all systems Oversee all Microsoft 365 services including security, identity, collaboration, and endpoint management Lead UGP’s cybersecurity programme across Microsoft ecosystems (Entra ID, Azure Defender, M365 Security, Sentinel). Promote a strong security culture and risk-aware behaviour across the organisation Implement ITIL best practices and drive robust service performance metrics Ensure that the IT support function is highly responsive and delivers excellent customer service Software Development Provide leadership and oversight of software development activities Oversee application architecture, product roadmaps, and technical debt management Ensure modern development and testing practices are maintained Drive continuous improvement in delivery capability, quality and performance Business Intelligence Lead the BI function in line with the data strategy agreed with the IT Director Ensure consistent data governance, quality, and reporting standards are maintained Support the organisation’s move towards data driven decision making Change & Project Delivery Oversee the change and project delivery functions to ensure effective technology‑led change Translate exec-level strategies and roadmaps into clear, actionable plans Identify opportunities for process optimisation, automation, and workflow improvement Ensure projects are delivered in line with agreed budgets, timescales and delivery standards Maintain a PMO framework with clear governance and reporting Support the IT Director in delivering wider transformation objectives Financial Management Ensure procurement delivers value for money Manage the IT budget Stakeholder & Vendor Management Build strong relationships with senior business managers Represent IT on the Senior Management Team Manage IT supplier relationships Team Management Build, manage, develop and retain a high-performing IT team Maintain a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and open communication Promote wellbeing, inclusion, and a positive team dynamic The Individual: Essential Experience Proven senior IT management experience leading multiple technical and delivery teams Strong understanding of Microsoft Azure architecture, services, and governance Experience leading software development, IT operations, and security functions Demonstratable success in delivering complex business change and technology projects Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills Sound knowledge of IT security and compliance Financial management and budget ownership experience Experience of managing 3rd party suppliers and managed service providers Desirable Experience Experience in the UK energy sector or regulated utilities Hands-on experience in software development, infrastructure management and cyber-security Demonstrable experience of leading AI driven initiatives Good knowledge of data platforms, BI tools, and analytics strategies – Microsoft Fabric, SQL, PowerBI Good knowledge of ITIL service management framework Relevant Microsoft certifications Certification in Project Management methodologies such as Prince2/Agile Personal Attributes Inspiring leader with a hands-on, pragmatic approach Resilient, adaptable, and driven by change and growth Positive, solutions-focused mindset with strong problem-solving skills Collaborative, approachable, and able to build trust across multiple teams Commercially aware Join The Team: Monday – Friday: 9-5pm, with some hybrid working Excellent salary based on your experience 25 days annual leave (and Bank Holidays) Holiday Purchase Scheme – Buy up to 5additionaldays of leave per year Pension scheme with generous employer contributions Scope to grow with a vibrant business A supportive, team-focused working environment Access to a Health & Wellbeing programme – includes GP consultations, mental health support, and discounted gym memberships Cycle to Work Scheme Company social events to celebrate success and stay connected #J-18808-Ljbffr