The IT Manager leads and develops Swan Re’s IT function, taking direct, hands-on ownership of the company’s hardware, software, infrastructure and business applications while driving Swan Re’s IT strategy and security posture forward. The role manages and develops the IT team, owns IT projects from planning through delivery, and continuously looks for automation and process improvements that make IT and the wider business run more efficiently. The IT Manager combines strategic planning with hands-on technical leadership to deliver secure, reliable and high-performing IT services.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement Swan Re’s IT strategy, roadmap and annual budget, aligned with business goals, and monitor spend to ensure optimal use of resources.
- Lead, mentor and manage the IT team, i.e. assigning work, reviewing output, and supporting their technical development and career growth.
- Own IT projects end-to-end, from scoping and planning through implementation, testing and rollout, including system upgrades, migrations, new tools and technology integrations.
- Take direct, hands-on ownership of Swan Re’s hardware, software, infrastructure, networks, servers and core business applications, ensuring they are reliable, well-maintained and fit for the business’ needs.
- Manage the company’s software updates and development, including planning, testing and deploying vendor updates, upgrades and security patches across all systems and devices in a timely manner, and overseeing the development, enhancement and customization of internal applications and tools, while minimizing disruption to the business.
- Own and continuously strengthen Swan Re’s IT security, including cybersecurity controls, access management, data protection, and business continuity/disaster recovery planning, to protect company and client data.
- Develop and maintain IT policies, procedures and standards in line with best practice and regulatory requirements, and maintain the IT asset registers, licensing records and documentation needed for audits and compliance.
- Identify and lead automation, process-improvement and new-technology opportunities, including evaluating cloud platforms (e.g. Microsoft Azure, AWS or Google Cloud), to make IT and the wider business run more efficiently.
- Stay up to date on the latest trends, technologies and systems relevant to insurance and reinsurance broking, and recommend how they can be applied to strengthen Swan Re’s operations and competitive position.
- Manage relationships with IT vendors and service providers, negotiate contracts and monitor service levels and costs to ensure best value.
- Act as the primary point of contact and escalation point for all IT matters — ensuring the IT team resolves routine issues promptly, translating business needs into practical solutions, and handling complex or business-critical issues directly.
- Prepare periodic reports to management on IT performance, project status, risks and budget utilization.
- Perform other IT-related duties and projects assigned by management.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in Information Technology, including hands-on systems administration, network management, or IT support.
- At least 2–3 years in a managerial, supervisory, or team-lead capacity, with proven ability to guide and develop junior staff.
- Prior experience in insurance, reinsurance, or financial services is preferred but not required.
- Solid understanding of IT infrastructure, networks, servers, databases, and enterprise applications.
- Working knowledge of cybersecurity practices and tools, and of IT governance, risk, and compliance principles; familiarity with ISO 27001 or similar information security standards is an advantage.
- Familiarity with cloud platforms (e.g. Microsoft Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud).
- Professional certifications such as ITIL, PMP/PRINCE2, CISM, CRISC, MCSA, or equivalent are a plus.
- Strong project management skills, with the ability to plan, organize, and deliver multiple initiatives simultaneously.
- Strong leadership, coaching, and communication skills, with the ability to explain technical matters to non-technical stakeholders.
- Analytical and problem-solving mindset, proactive and solutions-oriented, with a habit of looking for ways to automate and improve how things are done.
- Ability to work under pressure, with minimal supervision, and to manage competing priorities.
- Diligent, flexible, hardworking, self-motivated, and a strong team player with high integrity.
