Apply for IT Operations Manager

On behalf of our client, who is undergoing a pivotal technology transformation and looking to solidify its day-to-day IT operations, Affinity is seeking an IT Manager will play a central role in managing end-user support, hardware and software assets, vendor relationships (especially with our external Managed Service Provider), and ensuring the company’s systems run reliably and securely.

The ideal candidate will have a blend of hands-on IT experience and solid communication skills, with a knack for collaborating cross-functionally in a growing, multi-entity environment.

Key Responsibilities (Seasoned IT Manager, Day-to-Day Operations, Mid-Term Focus)

1. Daily IT Operations & User Support

• Oversee and execute all user support needs, from provisioning new accounts and hardware setups to troubleshooting escalated software and networking issues.
• Develop and maintain efficient service desk processes, ensuring prompt resolution of tickets and minimal disruption to business operations.

1. Vendor & MSP Management

• Act as the primary liaison with third-party providers, managing service-level agreements and ensuring alignment with operational priorities.
• Lead contract evaluations, negotiate renewals or changes in vendor relationships, and coordinate escalations for complex technical challenges.
• Monitor vendor performance against key metrics, making mid-term decisions on technology stacks or service models in coordination with the fractional CIO.

1. Process Automation & Systems Improvement

• Identify opportunities to streamline workflows using tools such as Microsoft Power Automate, Zapier, or other off-the-shelf solutions.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives, designing scalable automations that reduce manual effort and enhance data accuracy.
• Stay current on emerging technologies, recommending mid-range solutions that align with strategic objectives.

1. Infrastructure Maintenance & Security Best Practices

• Oversee the health of local and cloud-based infrastructure, ensuring timely updates, patch management, and adherence to security protocols.
• Implement routine audits of network, endpoints, and data-handling processes to reduce risks and enhance compliance.
• Collaborate with the fractional CIO to design and enforce best practices for access control, incident response, and disaster recovery.

1. Data & Reporting Coordination

• Coordinate data extraction and integration tasks across core systems (Acumatica, HR Cloud, and custom payroll) to meet departmental needs.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to refine reporting processes, enhancing data accuracy and usability for mid-term planning decisions.
• Provide recommendations on data management tools or approaches that can grow with the organizations expanding requirements.

1. Team Development & Leadership

• Take a lead role in building and mentoring a small in-house IT team as the organization scales, handling recruitment, onboarding, and performance management in collaboration with the fractional CIO.
• Foster a culture of proactive support, cross-training, and knowledge sharing, enabling the team to adapt quickly to changing technical demands.
• Provide input on staffing needs and organizational structure to ensure the IT function remains responsive and future-ready.

1. Collaboration with Fractional CIO & Leadership

• Act as an operational partner to the fractional CIO, translating higher-level strategic directives into executable IT initiatives.
• Provide regular updates on infrastructure stability, vendor performance, and user satisfaction, helping shape technology roadmaps and budgets.
• Offer insights on mid-term technology trends or risks, assisting leadership in making informed decisions about IT investments and resource allocation.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a closely related field; equivalent relevant experience will also be considered.
• Technical Expertise
  • Hands-on knowledge of ERP systems (preferably Acumatica) and associated integrations.
  • Experience automating workflows using tools like Power Automate, Zapier, or similar platforms.
• Vendor & Project Management
  • Familiarity with IT governance models and frameworks (e.g., ITIL) is a plus.
• Communication & Leadership Skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication, adept at translating technical issues for non-technical audiences and senior leaders.
  • Ability to effectively lead cross-functional discussions, facilitate resolutions, and provide guidance on IT-related decisions.
  • Enthusiasm for mentoring and developing junior IT staff, fostering a collaborative, service-focused culture.
• Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
  • Comfortable working alongside a fractional CIO or executive-level IT resource, providing operational insights and recommendations.
  • Track record of identifying and championing process improvements, particularly around IT support workflows, automation, and data integrity.
  • Adaptable mindset with a willingness to learn and leverage new technologies as the organization’s needs evolve.

Top Skills Necessary

• IT Management experience - 8–10+ years of progressive IT experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or managerial capacity.
• IT Operations leader - Proven track record in day-to-day IT operations management (e.g., user support, infrastructure maintenance, MSP coordination) and ability to scope, plan, and execute medium-scale IT projects—from hardware refreshes to system migrations—in alignment with business timelines and budgets.
• Vendor Management - Demonstrated success in negotiating and managing vendor and MSP relationships, including contract reviews and SLA performance tracking.
• IT Network and Infrastructure experience -  5+ years of networking fundamentals, security best practices, patch management, and cloud services (Azure, AWS, or similar) and proficientcy in administering Microsoft 365 environments (Exchange, SharePoint, Teams, Power Platform).

Salary range: $100K - $115K

Affinity Earn:

Know someone who’s great for this, or any of our open roles? Earn up to $4,000/year for each successful referral through Affinity Earn. You can also earn up to $50,000 for helping us find new clients. Learn about our referral program at https://affinity-group.ca/earn/ or browse our jobs & follow us at https://www.linkedin.com/company/affinity-staffing/jobs/

About Affinity: 

Affinity Group is a technology and business consulting and services company. We believe in creating long term relationships between clients and consultants that foster a mutually beneficial partnership. Affinity is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.

For more information on Affinity, please visit www.affinity-group.ca

Job Number: 12481