SUMMARY

The IT Manager is responsible for leading the technology strategy and day-to-day IT operations for Open Gates Group. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this highly service-oriented role works closely with department managers to understand challenges, solve problems, and make the systems they rely on more effective and efficient. The IT Manager oversees business applications, hardware, software, networks, telecommunications, cybersecurity, website maintenance, and technical support while identifying practical technology and AI solutions that improve productivity and support growth.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Team Development

• Lead, coach, and develop IT team members while setting clear expectations aligned with overall business priorities.
• Foster an IT culture focused on innovation, security, stability, service, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular development and coaching discussions with team members.
• Recognize employee contributions and address performance concerns appropriately.
• Develop staffing schedules to provide appropriate IT coverage across the organization.

IT Operations and Support

• Oversee business applications, hardware, software, telecommunications, internal networks, and other technology systems.
• Manage service desk operations and provide timely, practical support to employees.
• Partner with department managers to understand operational challenges and improve the systems, tools, and processes used by their teams.
• Oversee the maintenance, functionality, security, and performance of company websites in coordination with internal teams and outside partners.
• Manage system configuration, technology inventory, licensing, and asset management.
• Coordinate the installation, maintenance, replacement, and secure disposal of technology equipment.
• Manage the installation and ongoing maintenance of GPS and temperature-monitoring systems for Awesome Refrigerated Transit of Iowa.
• Travel between Open Gates Group facilities to provide support and oversee technology needs.

Technology Strategy and Project Management

• Define and implement a technology strategy that supports the current and future needs of Open Gates Group.
• Plan, prioritize, and manage IT projects from initial evaluation through implementation.
• Evaluate and implement technology and AI tools that streamline processes, improve productivity, and increase organizational
  capacity without automatically adding labor.
• Establish appropriate guidelines for the secure, responsible, and effective use of AI tools across the organization.
• Evaluate proposed technology changes based on business impact, cost, security, user adoption, and service.
• Manage software upgrades, system enhancements, integrations, and technology-related vendor relationships.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, efficiency, data accessibility, and the overall employee experience.

Cybersecurity and Business Continuity

• Develop, implement, and maintain IT policies, procedures, and security standards.
• Oversee cybersecurity controls and coordinate internal and external security audits.
• Monitor current developments in cybersecurity, data privacy, network design, system integration, and application development.
• Develop, test, and maintain data backup, recovery, business continuity, and disaster recovery plans.
• Identify technology risks and recommend appropriate safeguards to protect company systems, information, and operations.

Additional Responsibilities

• Maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive company, employee, customer, and business information.
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and cybersecurity risks.
• Perform other IT-related duties and special projects as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

• Associate or technical degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field preferred.
• At least five years of progressive IT support or systems experience, including leadership or supervisory responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of network design, systems administration, systems integration, cybersecurity, data privacy, risk management, and disaster recovery.
• Experience managing software upgrades, system enhancements, and technology implementation projects.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop employees, manage priorities, and achieve operational results.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, project-management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly to employees at all levels of technical knowledge.
• Service-oriented, adaptable, and able to handle challenges with sound judgment, professionalism, and follow-through.
• Commitment to Open Gates Group’s mission, values, operating principles, and culture of development.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between local company facilities as needed.

PHYSICAL & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods and use standard office equipment.
• Ability to move throughout office, production, warehouse, and transportation environments while following applicable safety and food-safety requirements.
• Ability to occasionally bend, kneel, crouch, reach, climb stairs, and access confined areas when installing or troubleshooting equipment.
• Ability to lift, carry, and install computer and networking equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to drive between local company facilities as needed.