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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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Secondary education

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

Study fields

Study levels

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Diploma
  • Certificate

Useful experience

Useful experience for IT managers includes:

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

What you will do

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.

Skills and knowledge

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.
Pay

Information technology managers usually earn

$100K-$190K

per year

Chief information technology officers usually earn

$150K-$350K

per year

Job opportunities
Good
Chances of getting a job as an IT manager are good due to a shortage of workers.
Length of training
2-3
years of training required.

Industry

Information Technology

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

Similar jobs in this industry

Entry requirements

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. 

Chances of getting a job

Information technology managers in demand 

Demand for information technology (IT) managers is good because:

  • organisations are moving their information systems online
  • many websites and software applications (apps) need technical systems and support
  • organisations need people with IT skills and experience to manage these systems and their staff.

Shortage of experienced IT managers

There are not enough experienced IT managers to meet demand. Nearly two thirds of IT employers report skills shortages, and there aren't enough information technology (IT) trainees.

As a result, ICT project manager, (IT manager), ICT Manager and Chief Information Officer appear on Immigration New Zealand's Green List. This means the Government is actively encouraging skilled IT/ICT managers from overseas to work in New Zealand.

According to the Census, 9,845 IT managers worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Types of employers varied

IT managers may work for:

  • private companies
  • IT manufacturing companies
  • organisations with IT divisions, such as government departments.

Find out more about training

IT Professionals NZ
0800 252 255 - info@itp.nz - www.itp.nz
New Zealand Technology Industry Association (NZTIA)
(09) 475 0204 - info@nztech.org.nz - www.nztech.org.nz

Progression and specialisations

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

Working 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.

Useful 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.

Related Wintec courses

Industry

Information Technology

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

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