In this role you will play a pivotal role to oversee and optimize our technological infrastructure across multiple locations of our large-scale fish farming operations. You will lead a dynamic team responsible for managing and optimizing our cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity measures, device management, sourcing, and networks. As the IT Manager, you will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability, security, and scalability of our IT systems while fostering innovation and driving operational excellence. You will collaborate closely with stakeholders, both internal and external, to align IT initiatives with business objectives and maintain compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

Cloud Infrastructure Management:

• Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of cloud-based infrastructure solutions (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) to support the organization’s strategic initiatives and business operations.
• Oversee the provisioning, configuration, and monitoring of cloud resources, ensuring optimal performance, scalability, and cost efficiency.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to define and implement cloud migration strategies for existing on-premises systems and applications.

Network Operations:

• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise-wide networks, including LAN, WAN, VPN, and wireless networks, to ensure high availability and performance.
• Monitor network traffic, analyze performance metrics, troubleshoot connectivity issues, implementing solutions to optimize network performance and reliability.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to plan and execute network upgrades, expansions, and migrations as needed to support business growth and technological advancements.

Cybersecurity and Compliance:

• Develop and enforce robust cybersecurity policies, procedures, and controls to protect sensitive data, systems, and networks from internal and external threats.
• Conduct regular security assessments, vulnerability scans, and penetration tests to identify and remediate potential security risks and compliance gaps.
• Stay updated on emerging cybersecurity threats and industry best practices, implementing proactive measures to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., Kenya Data Protection Act, GDPR, PCI DSS).

Device Management and Sourcing:

• Manage the procurement, deployment, and lifecycle management of IT hardware and software assets, including desktops, laptops, mobile devices, and peripherals.
• Implement and maintain device management solutions (e.g., MDM, EMM) to ensure device security, configuration management, and compliance with organizational policies.
• Develop vendor relationships and negotiate contracts for hardware, software, and services, optimizing costs and ensuring alignment with business requirements.

Team Leadership and Mentorship:

• Provide technical leadership and guidance to a team of technicians, analysts and interns, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
• Mentor junior technicians, sharing knowledge and best practices to promote skill development and growth within the team.
• Conduct process reviews, establish standards, and ensure adherence to industry best practices and security protocols.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or related field
• Proven experience (10 years) in IT management roles with a focus on cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, device management, sourcing, and networks.
• Strong technical proficiency in cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP), cybersecurity principles and practices, device management solutions, and network technologies.
• Experience with IT procurement, vendor management, and contract negotiation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills, with the ability to lead and mentor a diverse team of IT professionals.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance standards related to cybersecurity, data privacy, and IT governance.
• Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CCSP, AWS Certified Solutions Architect, or equivalent, are a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross functional teams and stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects, prioritize tasks, and deliver results within budget and timeline constraints.