Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced, proactive, and dynamic Assistant Manager - ISD to oversee and manage the entire IT infrastructure for our Botswana and Botho University Online campus. You will work closely with the Senior IT Manager, supervising a team of IT professionals, ensuring the campus infrastructure runs smoothly, and coordinating with other campuses as required. As this is a critical operations role, the Assistant IT Manager will need to be available 24/7 to address urgent IT issues. The position will also involve recommending improvements to the existing IT infrastructure, with a particular focus on network security and cybersecurity, to ensure optimal performance, security, and future scalability, deployment, management and maintenance of all aspects of ERP Systems. Additionally, you may be assigned other responsibilities as required from time to time.
Key Responsibilities
1. Team Leadership and Management
1.1 Supervise and lead the campus IT team, providing direction, training, and support.
1.2 Ensure team members are performing their roles effectively, providing feedback, and fostering professional development.
1.3 Delegate tasks, prioritize projects, and manage team workflows to ensure smooth IT operations on campus.
2. IT Infrastructure Management
2.1 Oversee the maintenance, installation, and upgrading of all campus IT systems, including hardware, software, networking, and servers.
2.2 Ensure the IT infrastructure is reliable, secure, and efficient, minimizing downtime and disruptions to campus operations.
2.3 Monitor system performance and ensure regular preventative maintenance to avoid any technical failures.
2.4 Identify areas of improvement and make recommendations to enhance the performance and scalability of the existing infrastructure.
3. Network and Cybersecurity Management
3.1 Implement and enforce best practices for network security, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls to safeguard the network.
3.2 Continuously monitor the campus network for vulnerabilities and potential security threats, proactively mitigating risks.
3.3 Respond to and resolve cybersecurity incidents, including breaches, malware infections, and data loss events, ensuring minimal impact on campus operations.
3.4 Collaborate with the Senior IT Manager to develop, implement, and enforce cybersecurity policies and procedures to comply with industry standards and regulations.
3.5 Stay current on the latest cybersecurity trends, threats, and technologies to ensure the campus network remains protected against emerging risks.
4. Collaboration and Coordination
4.1 Work closely with the Senior IT Manager to develop strategies and implement IT solutions that align with organizational goals.
4.2 Coordinate with other campuses to ensure consistent IT practices, and troubleshoot cross-campus IT issues when necessary.
4.3 Collaborate with department heads and other teams to align IT resources with the needs of each department.
5. Project Management
5.1 Support the implementation of campus-wide IT projects, ensuring on-time delivery, within budget, and meeting quality standards.
5.2 Manage the deployment of new technology and ERP solutions across campus.
5.3 Assist in the planning and execution of upgrades, migrations, and system enhancements.
6. IT Support and Troubleshooting
6.1 Ensure timely resolution of IT-related issues and provide technical support for staff, faculty, and students as needed.
6.2 Troubleshoot and resolve complex hardware, software, network, and security-related issues, working closely with external vendors when required.
7. Security and Compliance
7.1 Monitor IT security protocols and ensure that data and systems are protected from cyber threats.
7.2 Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and internal policies regarding IT security, data protection, and software licensing.
8. Reporting and Documentation
8.1 Prepare and maintain detailed documentation of IT systems, network infrastructure, and technical procedures.
8.2 Provide regular reports on the campus IT infrastructure status to senior management.
9. Budget Management
9.1 Assist the Senior IT Manager in managing the IT budget for the campus.
9.2 Track and report on expenditures related to IT infrastructure and recommend cost-effective solutions.
10. Continuous Improvement and Innovation
10.1 Proactively suggest and advise on improvements to existing infrastructure, ensuring it remains future-proof and aligned with the institution’s evolving needs.
10.2 Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies to implement best practices and innovations in IT operations.
11. Other Responsibilities
11.1 Take on additional tasks and projects as assigned by the Senior IT Manager or other senior leadership, adapting to changing needs within the department and the institution.
Required Qualifications
1. Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field.
2. A minimum of 5 years of experience in IT management, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
3. In-depth knowledge of IT infrastructure, including networking, servers, security protocols, and software applications.
4. Relevant IT certifications such as:
4.1 CompTIA Network+
4.2Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator
4.3 Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
4.4 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
4.5 Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a plus.
4.6 ITIL Foundation (or higher)
5. Proven experience in managing network security and addressing cybersecurity issues.
6. Strong experience with firewall management, intrusion detection/prevention, and network vulnerability assessments.
7. Proven experience managing and leading an IT team.
8. Strong project management skills and experience in handling campus-wide IT projects.
9. Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
10. Ability to work well under pressure and prioritize tasks effectively.
11. Available 24/7 to address urgent operational needs and critical issues.
Preferred Qualifications
1. Master’s degree in a related field.
2. Experience working in a multi-campus or multi-location IT environment.
3. Additional certifications in cybersecurity (e.g., Certified Information Security Manager - CISM, Certified Information Systems Auditor - CISA).
Skills and Competencies
1. Network Security: Expertise in securing IT networks through firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and securing sensitive data.
2. Cybersecurity: Strong understanding of threat landscapes, attack vectors, and incident response protocols.
3. Leadership and team management skills.
4. Strong communication skills to interact with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
5. Ability to think strategically and align IT infrastructure with institutional goals.
6. Time management and organizational skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
7. Detail-oriented with an emphasis on quality and security.
8. Ability to suggest and implement infrastructure improvements based on technological advancements and operational needs.
Work Environment
1. The role requires presence on the Botswana campus, overseeing ISD related matters to Botho University Online with the possibility of occasional travel to other campuses or locations.
2. This is a critical operations role, and the Assistant IT Manager must be available 24/7 for emergency support, troubleshooting, and ensuring the continuity of IT services.