We are really proud to say that in 2025, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running
We’re reimagining work/life balance – and you could be part of it.
At OFG, we're proud to be part of the 4-Day Working Week trial – a bold step toward giving our teams more time to recharge, refresh, and enjoy life outside of work.
That means you could be working 80% of your usual hours, while still earning 100% of your pay.
Job Title: Head of IT
Location: Bolton (Hybrid working 2 days in the office)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Mon-Fri 9-5
Salary: Between £80,000 - £100,000 per annum (dependent on experience and qualifications)
About Us
At Outcomes First Group, we believe every child can thrive when given the right environment for success. As one of the world’s leading providers in our sector, we deliver exceptional, research-led education tailored to each individual, with smaller class sizes and personalised learning plans.
Our vision is to empower every child with a world-class education that nurtures potential and inspires lifelong learning. Our mission is to unlock that potential through personalised learning and opportunity. And our promise is simple: we listen, we work together, and we are accountable to one another to make the remarkable happen.
The Role:
We are looking for an Head of IT to join our IT team.
As Head of IT you would be the senior leader of Outcomes First Group Technology Function. Our Head of IT makes sure the IT Teams are operating in accordance with the governance and policy framework in place across the organisation following approved budgets. The post-holder plays a critical role in aligning IT resources with the company’s overall goals and objectives, supporting BAU activities and ensuring the organisations technology infrastructure supports its business operations and growth.
IT serves as a stabilising force across the Outcomes First Group, ensuring we operate and deliver our educational services without technology issues getting in the way. The technology used in our schools provides greater accessibility and flexibility, enabling our students to learn at their own pace and gain from virtual experiences. IT systems facilitate the management of student records, course materials, and assessments, streamlining administrative processes, reducing paperwork, and increasing record security.
Overall, IT ensures the operational efficiency of Outcomes First Group through reliable internet, phones systems and printing services as well as supplying all IT equipment to our schools and care services. Support is provided by a team of engineers based in Bolton underpinned by additional engineers and suppliers around the country. Robust monitoring and proactive support mean we often fix things before our schools are open. Security is part of our DNA with Cyber Essentials defining the base level at which we operate. IT plays a significant part in improving the lives of our pupils, their families, and the local communities through a relentless focus on wellbeing and learning
We would consider applications from experienced Head of IT and Operations.
What you'll do:
Oversee the planning, design and delivery of technology solutions.
Ensure the timely and efficient execution of technology projects while maintaining high standards of quality and reliability.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate technology solutions into business processes.
Manage and optimise OFG’s technology infrastructure, including networks, servers, databases, and cloud services.
Ensure scalability, security, and reliability of technology systems to support current and future business needs.
Lead & manage a high-performing technology team, including IT Operations, Business Systems Management and Technical Project Delivery.
Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning within the technology organization.
Identify and mitigate potential technology-related risks and security threats, with a high level of understanding of security protocol and infrastructure.
Implement and enforce security best practices to safeguard the organization's data, systems, and intellectual property.
Evaluate and select technology vendors, partners, and service providers to support the organization's technological needs.
Manage relationships with external technology providers and negotiate contracts and agreements.
Develop and manage the technology budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and cost-effective technology solutions.
Prioritise technology initiatives based on business impact and strategic goals.
Communication and Stakeholder Engagement:
Always ensure compliance with cyber security standards set by the Group Board and customers
What we're looking for:
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant technical field (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering) is typically required; advanced degrees or relevant certifications are a plus.
Proven track record of leading IT Teams in a multi-site environment preferably with a background in education.
Extensive experience in managing technology teams and driving complex projects to successful completion.
Good understanding of current and emerging technologies, as well as their potential business applications.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Deliver focused, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Deep knowledge of cybersecurity best practices and risk management.
Experience with budget management and resource allocation.
Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing technology landscape and drive organizational change.
History of successful delivery of efficiency and standards improvements
Track record of maintaining strong relationships at all levels
Track record of delivering high standards of customer service
Used to work with ROI measurement & outcomes analysis.
Motivational and structured people leader
Proven track record of continuously improving performance and standards across multiple teams.
Brings external best practice knowledge to the function.
Driven and self-motivated
Confident presenter and influencer of others.
Why join Outcomes First Group?
About the Group
Outcomes First Group is the largest independent provider of high quality special needs education and care. We are a vital part of local communities in England, Scotland and Wales with a renowned reputation for quality and positive outcomes for the people we educate and care for.
We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fifth year running.
Our divisional brands include Acorn Education, Options Autism, Blenheim Schools and Momenta Connect.
Our Vision
Empower every child, whatever their ability, with a world-class education that nurtures potential, inspires lifelong learning, and equips them to thrive in a diverse and evolving world.
Our Mission
We commit to unlocking our pupils’ potential through personalised learning, innovation, and opportunity, supporting growth and aspirations.
Our Promise
We Listen.
We never assume.
We work together.
To make the remarkable happen.
We are accountable.
To each other and for one another.
Benefits
Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you’ll get an exceptional reward package including:
Life Assurance
Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
“Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks
Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support.
And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that’s right for you, including:
A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
Cycle to Work Schemes
Electric Car Purchase Scheme
Critical illness cover
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all employees to share this commitment and undertake appropriate checks.
All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Please note: 4DWW is subject to successful completion of your probation period and is not a contractual benefit.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales