Senior System Administrator – Head of IT

About the role

This is a hands‑on Senior System Administrator position that also leads the IT function. Based onsite in Cheltenham, you will own the full lifecycle of internal IT operations, from infrastructure and security to end‑user support.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and monitor internal desktop, server, network and cloud systems.
• Implement and maintain security controls to meet compliance standards.
• Provide 1st‑3rd line support for Linux and Microsoft environments.
• Assist clients with technical remediation following assessments.
• Produce clear documentation, procedures and knowledge‑base articles.
• Support colleagues with day‑to‑day IT requirements and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Proven experience managing internal IT systems across end‑user, server, network and cloud layers.
• Hands‑on administration of both Linux and Microsoft operating systems.
• Strong knowledge of network security and firewall technologies.
• Experience with ticketing/ITSM platforms and MDM solutions.
• Excellent communication skills and a proactive, service‑focused attitude.

Required skills

• Microsoft Azure & Azure Active Directory / Entra ID
• Microsoft 365 & Intune
• Windows Server
• Linux (Debian/Ubuntu/RHEL or similar)
• Active Directory & Group Policy
• Firewall & network security (Fortinet, Cisco, Palo Alto)
• VPN and remote‑access solutions
• Ticketing/ITSM platforms (ServiceNow, Jira, Freshdesk)
• Virtualisation (VMware, Hyper‑V)

What we offer

• Salary £35,000‑£45,000 per annum
• Performance‑linked bonus and comprehensive benefits
• Opportunity to work in a well‑established technical organisation that values innovation and team culture
• Requirement to obtain and maintain UK Government SC clearance (ILR or British passport required)