IT Operations Manager

Company DescriptionFor over 40 years, Carthage Veterinary Service, LTD has been a trusted partner for producers who value science-based solutions and service. We prioritize practical, farm-based decision-making aligned with our clients' goals. As experts in swine health and production, we recognize the importance of comprehensive services to stay competitive in the pork industry. From health and nutrition to diagnostics and more, we provide recommendations that drive our clients’ success.Role DescriptionThe IT Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily management of IT operations, ensuring that systems, processes, and people function efficiently and effectively. This role provides leadership to the IT operations team to maintain the reliability, security, and performance of the organization’s technology infrastructure. Balances operational excellence with strategic initiatives, fostering a positive, solutions-oriented IT culture that emphasizes communication, accountability, and teamwork. Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Team ManagementLead and develop IT support and help desk staff, ensuring timely and professional service delivery.Establish priorities and workflows that balance help desk support, system maintenance, and project work.Provide mentorship and coaching to IT team members to build technical depth and communication skills.Foster a positive, proactive, and customer-focused IT culture across the organization. Multi-Site & Multi-Entity OperationsManage IT infrastructure and support for multiple facilities and business entities, ensuring consistency and reliability.Coordinate with site leaders to align technology systems and processes with business needs.Oversee network connectivity, user access, and system configurations across all locations. Systems, Servers & SecurityOversee the operation and maintenance of on-premises and cloud-based servers, including virtualization and storage systems.Manage data backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity planning to minimize downtime and data loss.Work closely with the leadership team to implement and maintain cybersecurity policies, including patching, access controls, and endpoint protection.Monitor and optimize system performance, ensuring uptime, scalability, and security.Evaluate new technologies and vendor solutions to improve reliability and efficiency.Customer Service & CommunicationMaintain a strong focus on internal customer service and end-user satisfaction.Track help desk metrics (response times, resolution rates, satisfaction scores) and use data to improve team performance.Communicate clearly with internal stakeholders about IT projects, priorities, and expected timelines.Serve as a bridge between technical staff and non-technical departments.Set and communicate realistic expectations with internal customers around timelines and support.Project & Operational OversightPlan, communicate, and track IT projects from initiation to completion.Balance short-term troubleshooting needs with long-term technology goals.Coordinate with vendors, partners, and internal departments to keep initiatives on track. Qualifications:Education & Work Experience:Bachelor’s degree in related field (or equivalent experience).3+ years of experience in leadership, including project management, team lead, or management roles.3+ years of experience in IT operations, systems administration, or similar technical roles.Working knowledge of Microsoft 365, Windows Server, networking, and endpoint management tools.Experience with monitoring systems, ticketing platforms, and cybersecurity best practices.Leadership & Personal Skills:Strong organizational and prioritization abilities — able to balance multiple requests calmly.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Proven experience leading or mentoring a small team.Comfortable making decisions, even when under pressure or with incomplete information.Naturally collaborative — someone who listens, learns, and builds trust across teams. Work EnvironmentProfessional office setting with regular cross-department collaboration.Fast-paced, team-oriented environment focused on reliability and continuous improvement.Primarily weekday schedule with occasional after-hours support for maintenance or critical issues.Ability to perform in highly interruptive conditions and under frequent time pressures.