What does a Senior IT Manager do?

The primary responsibilities of a senior IT manager include: supervision of direct reports, budgetary and financial responsibilities, project management and oversight of his or her portfolio. Senior information technology (IT) managers are found in many industries. The widespread implementation of information technology within almost all business organizations has led to the need for dedicated IT workers. In large organizations, there often are entire IT departments and management positions required to support the business operations.

In order to become a senior IT manager, a minimum of 10 years of experience in information technology management is required by most employers. In a large organization, it is not uncommon to have a hierarchal structure, with both managers and senior managers. The senior manager is charged with the oversight of daily operations and the implementation of strategic plans.

The supervision of direct reports includes making hiring decisions, doing performance reviews and handing out discipline. Because of the subject matter expertise that the senior IT manager is expected to have, he or she might be required to create detailed job descriptions and create training programs for existing staff. As technology changes, the senior manager is required to stay current and ensure that staff members are provided with the tools to keep their skills updated.

Project management forms a significant part of the responsibilities of an information technology manager. These tasks include defining specifications, creating project plans, working with business users and setting a budget. Although the actual project management responsibility might be delegated to a more junior manager, the senior IT manager must ensure that the project remains on track. He or she is ultimately responsible for the success or failure of initiatives within a portfolio.

Setting the total project budget and managing divisional spending is part of the responsibilities of this position. Most information technology managers do not have a background in accounting, and they often complete certificate programs in budget management to fill this gap in training. Effective budget management includes reducing spending and increasing revenue whenever and wherever possible.

In addition to operational management, senior staff members participate in strategic planning sessions, business reviews and setting the long-term direction of the organization. Part of this process includes keeping upper-level managers informed about progress and issues within the division and the steps taken to resolve issues. Coordination of activities between divisions and other areas of the business are typically arranged at this level.