Head of IT

Head of IT job description

The Head of IT provides strategic leadership over the organisation’s technology environment, ensuring IT systems and services are secure, scalable, and aligned with business objectives. This executive role is responsible for IT strategy, governance, innovation, and delivery across all New Zealand operations.

Typical Head of IT duties

Key responsibilities of a Head of IT include:

Developing and executing IT strategy to support organisational growth and digital transformation

Leading IT governance, security, and compliance in accordance with the NZ Privacy Act and ISO 27001

Overseeing infrastructure, support, systems, and cybersecurity teams to ensure operational excellence

Managing large-scale IT projects, including cloud migration, modernisation, and integration initiatives

Building and maintaining strong vendor relationships, contract management, and procurement processes

Managing IT budgets, resource planning, and investment in emerging technologies

Providing strategic guidance to the executive team on risk, innovation, and technology trends

Ensuring business continuity, disaster recovery, and system resilience

Driving a culture of continuous improvement, performance, and service delivery within the IT function

Head of IT job qualifications and requirements

A degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field is required. Executive certifications such as ITIL, TOGAF, or cloud architecture credentials are advantageous.

Requirements include:

10+ years’ experience in IT leadership roles, including at least 3 years in a senior/executive capacity

Proven track record in IT strategy, governance, and enterprise-wide technology delivery

In-depth understanding of New Zealand data protection, cybersecurity, and digital compliance requirements

Strong commercial acumen and ability to align technology with business priorities

Excellent leadership, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills across all organisational levels

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Salary for Head of IT

160000 - 200000

25th percentile

160000

The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is building necessary skills.

50th percentile

180000

The candidate has moderate experience in the role, meets most requirements or has equivalent transferable skills, and may also have relevant certifications.

75th percentile

200000

The candidate has extensive experience and advanced skills for the role, and may also have specialised certifications.

Salary range based on three percentiles The starting salaries represent gross yearly salaries. They do not include bonuses, benefits or KiwiSaver.

Projected salaries for related positions

Job title

25th percentile

50th percentile

75th percentile

IT Manager

135000

150000

175000

Head of Data

180000

200000

230000

Software Development Manager

180000

200000

230000

Head of Product

160000

180000

200000

Chief Information Officer

250000

280000

350000

Chief Technology Officer

250000

280000

350000

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Our starting salary projections come from a detailed, multistep process that ensures our numbers accurately reflect the marketplace. They’re based on real compensation data for job candidates our recruiters have matched with companies across the country.

The Salary Guide from Robert Half is the original. We’ve been publishing salary forecasts since 1950, and our guide has served as a trusted source for employers, job seekers, industry associations, government and educational institutions, and national and local media.