Head of Information Technology

*Based in the Greater Milwaukee, WI areaOur client, a manufacturer serving industrial markets, is seeking a strategic, hands-on IT leader to lead the organization's enterprise technology function. This executive will partner closely with senior leadership to develop and execute the company's IT strategy, ensuring technology supports operational excellence, business growth, and long-term scalability.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESProvide leadership and direction for the internal IT team, establishing priorities and supporting team development.Maintain a secure, reliable, and scalable technology environment supporting business operations.Oversee network, server, cloud, hardware, software, endpoint, and communications technologies.Strengthen cybersecurity practices, including access controls, risk management, backups, recovery planning, and security awareness.Lead infrastructure upgrades and technology projects while minimizing disruption to business operations.Manage third-party technology providers, software and hardware vendors, licensing, and IT-related purchasing.Establish appropriate IT standards, documentation, policies, and operating procedures.Partner with functional leaders to understand technology requirements and address operational challenges.Ensure responsive technical support and serve as an escalation resource for more complex issues.Evaluate existing technologies and recommend improvements that enhance security, reliability, efficiency, and the user experience.Support technology operations across multiple locations as needed.QUALIFICATIONSBachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related discipline preferred; comparable experience will be considered.Progressive experience in IT infrastructure, operations, systems administration, or a related field.Previous experience managing or supervising IT professionals.Strong technical foundation across networks, servers, cloud environments, endpoints, hardware, and software.Working knowledge of cybersecurity, identity/access management, backup and recovery, and IT risk management.Experience leading infrastructure or technology projects and working with external vendors.Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability and willingness to remain hands-on when needed.Ability to communicate effectively with employees and leaders across different functions and technical skill levels.Manufacturing or other operationally intensive industry experience preferred.Experience supporting multiple facilities or locations is a plus.