IT Service Manager required to join my Kent based client on a hybrid permanent basis. Technically hands on the Service Manager will be responsible for ensuring a "best in class" service across infrastructure & cloud based technologies. Benefits Include: Hybrid working (2 days on site) Bonus 20% I am keen to speak with any IT Service or IT Operations Lead, with a background in Infrastructure, who is technically hands on. Ideally with experience in Financial Services or a highly regulated & corporate environment. The role: To work closely with the architect function, driving and delivering best in breed solution design. The role acts as the technical lead for IT project delivery. Responsible for a small team driving an innovation approach and adoption of best practices. The role will be required to be technically hands-on along with ensuring excellent communication across the IT and business functions. Initially the role will also include responsibility for transitioning operations (servers only) to the wider organisation based in India to free up senior staff. Key Accountability & Responsibilities: Line management for engineering team of technical architects, senior Infra engineers. Responsible for delivering high quality project on time and to budget. Responsible for aligning with company strategy and driving standardisation across the estate. Accountable for contingency planning. Responsible for implementing operational policies, constructing SLA/KPIs and working with vendor management to ensure robust compliance and performance of outsourced service providers Embedding service continuity disciplines through periodic testing of HA failover and redundant/resilient technologies. Participate in IT strategic planning, project planning and budget planning efforts. Establish and maintain strong, strategic partnerships with vendors and service suppliers. Knowledge & Experience Required: Significant experience in IT Infrastructure Significant experience delivering large scale mission critical IT systems. Experience managing a team of IT professionals in a rapidly changing environment. Experience delivering services in cloud-based environments is highly desirable Broad technical experience covering Windows infrastructure, Firewalls, Switches, physical/virtual Servers, VoIP telephony and hosted bespoke applications. Significant experience in a Service Operations Management capacity, including all aspects of ITIL frameworks and project delivery lifecycle. Experience in the management and delivery of IT service/product contracts. This role would suit candidates who are within commutable distance of Kent with a background in IT Service Operations