IT Manager

About Uplift

Uplift is a dynamic global talent search agency operating across EMEA, LATAM, USA, and APAC. With successful placements in 52 countries, we combine speed, market intelligence, and cutting-edge recruitment technology to deliver executive and mid-to-senior talent across a wide range of functions.

Our approach integrates global networks, AI-powered sourcing, and advanced recruitment tools. Beyond recruitment, we actively engage with the talent and HR community through our podcast, newsletter, and webinars, staying at the forefront of global hiring and leadership trends.

About Our Client

Our client is a global aviation services organization with a strong international footprint and a rapidly growing presence in Africa. Operating within a highly regulated, fast-paced environment, the company supports complex operational activities across multiple locations and works closely with global and local leadership teams.

As part of their continued growth and digital transformation journey, they are strengthening their Global IT organization and are now seeking an experienced IT Manager to lead IT operations in Kenya, partnering closely with both Global IT and local business stakeholders.

The Role: IT Manager – Kenya

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Department: Global IT

Reporting to: Global IT Director & Kenya CEO

The IT Manager will be responsible for leading and developing the Kenya IT operations, ensuring secure, stable, and cost-effective IT services that support business growth. This role combines hands-on leadership, strategic IT planning, and stakeholder management, acting as a key bridge between Global IT standards and local operational needs.

The successful candidate will build and lead a high-performing local IT team, drive infrastructure and systems initiatives, and play a critical role in shaping the IT roadmap for Kenya.

Key Responsibilities

IT Strategy & Innovation

• Drive local IT strategy in alignment with Global IT objectives
• Stay up to date with emerging technologies and actively promote innovation

Budget & Cost Management

• Prepare, manage, and monitor the IT budget
• Identify and implement cost-saving and efficiency-improving initiatives

Infrastructure & Systems

• Plan and deliver IT infrastructure projects, including expansions for new stations
• Lead system consolidation initiatives to improve performance and reduce costs
• Support the centralization of IT operations, systems, and data centers where applicable

Project & Performance Management

• Oversee major IT projects and monitor overall IT performance
• Ensure optimal allocation and effectiveness of IT resources

Global Standards & Process Excellence

• Implement and monitor Global IT policies, procedures, and standards
• Promote standardized and scalable IT solutions across the business

User Enablement

• Ensure effective system usage through training, support, and continuous improvement

Information Security & Risk Management

• Ensure data security, network access control, and backups in compliance with ISO 27001
• Develop, maintain, and regularly test Disaster Recovery Plans

Stakeholder & Priority Management

• Act as the main point of contact between IT and business units
• Coordinate priorities across departments and manage expectations

People Management

• Recruit, onboard, develop, and lead the local IT team
• Set clear expectations, conduct performance reviews, and support ongoing development

Qualifications & Experience

Education & Background

• Bachelors degree in Engineering or a related technical field
• Advanced level of English
• Experience working in multinational and cross-cultural environments
• Aviation industry experience (ground handling or cargo operations) is highly desirable
• Minimum 7 years of experience in IT management or a similar leadership role

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proven people leadership and team management capabilities
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Proactive, solution-oriented, and collaborative mindset
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, international business environment

What They Offer

• A key leadership role within a global IT organization
• High-impact exposure in a growing and strategic market
• Opportunity to shape and develop IT operations at country level
• Competitive compensation and long-term career development opportunities
• International collaboration and professional growth