It Operations Manager

About EXA
EXA Group is an international leader in general contracting, with an outstanding experience in construction, renovation and fit-out in the luxury retail, residential and hospitality sectors.

Our diverse and inclusive multi-national team is driven by a common work ethic of mindsets and skillsets oriented towards flexibility, resilience, a high degree of organisation, and a craftsmanship level of attention to detail.

About the role
The Group IT Infrastructure and Security Operations Manager will report to the Group IT and Digital Innovation Director and will be responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and management of the IT infrastructure and security operations across all business units. This role ensures the reliability, scalability, and security of IT systems to support business operations and strategic objectives.

The manager will actively contribute to the Group's infrastructure evolution program and participate in defining the cloud strategy to support digital transformation and business growth.

Additionally, the manager will monitor and plan improvement actions for the Group's infrastructure and security, with the goal of ensuring operational continuity, balancing resources with business needs and achieving cost efficiency.

The manager will also be responsible for IT support and assistance processes as well as Workplace operations.

This role also includes the responsibility for defining, implementing, and maintaining policies related to cybersecurity, infrastructure, and workplace management to protect enterprise data, systems, applications and workplace devices. Ensure compliance with applicable cybersecurity regulations and standards.

A strong inclination toward managing outsourced services is essential.

Key responsibilities

Infrastructure Management:

1. Contribute to the Group's infrastructure evolution program and the development of the cloud strategy.
2. Ensure high availability and performance of all IT systems and services.
3. Manage data centers, disaster recovery solutions, and backup systems.
4. Lead the planning, deployment, and maintenance of IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, storage, and cloud services.

IT Support and Workplace Operations:

1. Oversee IT support services to ensure timely and effective resolution of technical issues.
2. Manage Workplace operations, including hardware, software, and collaboration tools to enhance employee productivity.
3. Define and maintain workplace management policies to ensure consistency and efficiency.
4. Ensure the protection and security of workplace devices and employee workstations.

Security Operations:

1. Define and enforce cybersecurity policies and procedures to safeguard infrastructure and workplace devices and ensure compliance.
2. Develop and implement robust cybersecurity strategies to protect the organization's assets.
3. Monitor security systems for vulnerabilities and incidents, coordinate incident response and mitigation.

Vendor and Stakeholder Management:

1. Manage relationships with technology vendors, service providers, and consultants.
2. Monitor and ensure outsourced services performances for infrastructure and technology (cloud providers, data centers, networking, etc.) and ensure service level agreements (SLAs) are met.
3. Demonstrate a proactive approach in managing outsourced services to ensure quality and efficiency.

Project Management:

1. Oversee IT infrastructure and security projects from conception to completion.
2. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and within budget.

User Awareness and Education:

1. Develop and implement cybersecurity awareness programs for end users to promote safe practices in using company assets and mitigate risks related to cybersecurity and data protection.
2. Educate and promote on the correct use of hardware, software, and adherence to operational policies and procedures.
3. Evaluate emerging technologies and make recommendations for improvements.
4. Implement best practices for IT operations and security frameworks.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
2. 6-8 years of experience in IT infrastructure and security operations, with at least 2 years in a managerial role with proven experience in managing outsourced IT services.
3. Technical Expertise in Microsoft Technologies:
4. Proven experience with Microsoft 365 (M365 and O365), Microsoft Active Directory, and domain management within a Microsoft environment.
5. Strong knowledge of network and systems architecture, cloud computing, cybersecurity frameworks, and disaster recovery.
6. Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, ITIL, MS certifications) and knowledge of security regulations and standards (GDPR, ISO 27001, NIST) are highly desirable.
7. Effective Communication. Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and influence company-wide technology strategies.
8. Excellent problem solving and analytical skills with strong execution ability and sense of urgency.
9. Enthusiasm and willingness to contribute to the IT Department success.

Languages required:
Italian (mother tongue), English (professional proficiency both written and spoken), French is a plus.

Location and travel requirements
This position is based in Milan, Italy.
Travel to the Group's operational sites may be required to oversee infrastructure and security operations, collaborate with on-site teams, or conduct meetings with service providers as well as to ensure the alignment and implementation of IT and security strategies across all locations. The candidate should be flexible and able to accommodate travel as needed.

Offer
We offer a permanent employment contract, with a compensation package to be determined based on the candidate's knowledge and experience.

EXA MP is an employer committed to ensuring diversity, inclusion, and a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. We value a diverse and inclusive workforce, providing equal opportunities to all candidates and employees. The Group believes that to achieve the best results, the staff should reflect the various communities in which our clients operate. We appreciate the skills, knowledge, and experience that diversity brings to our culture and our solutions.