Information Technology Manager Kaiwhakahaere Hangarau Pārongo

Information technology (IT) managers plan and supervise computer and information technology services for organisations or technical teams.

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IT managers may choose to become certified or chartered through associations such as the Institute of IT Professionals.

IT managers may do some or all of the following:

  • assess and recommend computer and information systems equipment, software and networks
  • prepare budgets and reports
  • plan for and purchase computer and information technology equipment
  • supervise installation, use and repair of computer systems
  • manage helpdesk support teams and other IT teams.

Useful Experience

Useful experience for IT managers includes:

  • technical computer work
  • helpdesk operations
  • management
  • project administration
  • customer service.

Personal Qualities

IT managers need to be:

  • good communicators, who can clearly explain complex technical information
  • analytical, with problem-solving skills
  • strong in evaluation and judgement
  • able to work well under pressure
  • leaders who can motivate their staff.

Skills

IT managers need to have knowledge of:

  • how their organisation can use and store information
  • the latest computer hardware and software, and how it could be used by their organisation
  • management, planning and technical requirements
  • how to evaluate their clients' needs.

Conditions

IT managers:

  • usually work regular business hours, but may have to work irregular or long hours, and be on call
  • work in offices and computer rooms
  • may travel around the country or internationally to other company offices, or to attend conferences and trade shows.

Subject Recommendations

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training. Useful subjects include maths, physics and digital technologies.

Information Technology Managers can earn around $100K-$190K per year.

Chances of getting a job as a Information Technology Manager are good due to a shortage of people interested in this type of work.

Pay for information technology (IT) managers varies depending on experience and level of responsibility.

  • Information technology managers usually earn $100,000 to $190,000 a year. 
  • Chief information technology officers(CTOs) can earn $150,000 to $350,000 a year.

Sources: Absolute IT, ’IT Job Market and Remuneration Report 2022’; ‘Recruit IT, Technology & Digital Salary Update, Auckland, December 2022’; and Recruit IT, ‘Technology & Digital Salary Update, Wellington, December 2022’.

Information technology managers may progress into the role of chief information officer (CIO) or chief technology officer (CTO).

Years Of Training

2-3 years of training required.

There are no specific requirements to become an information technology (IT) manager, but relevant work experience is essential.

A tertiary qualification, such as a degree in information technology or a project management qualification, may be useful. 

Information Technology Manager