Information Technology Lead

Company Description The Cope, established in 1906, is recognised as one of the leading retailers in the North West of Ireland, serving the community of West Donegal and beyond. The business offers a diverse range of products and services, including builders providers, supermarkets and convenience stores, home and hardware, menswear, sports shops, ladies wear, furniture and flooring, including IT sales and services. The Cope is a community-focused organisation employing over 100 locally based team members. Through the Cope Community Trust, the company has donated more than €110,000 to local clubs and organizations since 2010, reflecting a strong commitment to supporting the area in which it operates. Role Description The Cope is looking for an experienced and proactive I.T. Lead & Retail Manager to take responsibility for the day-to-day management and development of IT across the business. The role also includes responsibility for our IT Sales & Services business, Hubtec, which provides IT solutions and support to external customers, including schools, businesses and other organisations. This is a hands-on role with responsibility for overseeing I.T. across The Cope’s multiple locations, including our retail operations and internal business systems. The successful candidate will lead a small I.T. team, ensuring that technology, infrastructure and support services are reliable, secure and meet the needs of the business and customers. Key Responsibilities - Lead a small IT team, providing day-to-day direction, support and technical guidance. - Manage IT systems, infrastructure, hardware, software, networks, Wi-Fi and telecommunications across the business and within the retail shop. - Operation of Microsoft 365, cloud services, user accounts, licences and access. - Maintain appropriate cybersecurity, cctv systems, backups and system security. - Liaise with IT suppliers, software providers, contracts and licences. - Support the purchase and replacement of IT hardware and software. - Lead and support IT projects, system upgrades and new technology implementations. - Work closely with Senior Management and department managers to understand and meet business needs, developing our use of technology, improving systems and identifying opportunities for greater efficiency through technology and automation. - Ensure IT systems are reliable, secure and fit for purpose across all Cope locations. - Maintain and manage CCTV systems across all locations. What We're Looking For - Relevant IT qualification or equivalent experience. - Experience in an IT support, systems or infrastructure role, ideally with some management or supervisory experience. - Organised, practical and able to manage competing priorities. - A customer-focused and team approach with the ability to communicate technical information clearly to non-technical colleagues and customers. - Good understanding of networking, cloud services, cybersecurity and telecommunications. - Experience in a retail, commercial or multi-site environment would be an advantage. - A hands-on, highly motivated individual with strong communication skills and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.