Head of IT (GCC)

About Cognita: Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 20 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, "Thrive in a rapidly evolving world". About the Role: As Head of IT (GCC), you will lead the delivery of technology services across the Cog, ensuring schools benefit from reliable, secure and high-quality IT support. Acting as the trusted technology partner to local leadership, you will work closely with Group technology teams to implement strategy, embed standards and drive continuous improvement across all schools. Leading the local IT Technician team, you will oversee service delivery, technology operations, lifecycle planning and local projects, while managing budgets, suppliers, risks and performance. This is a key leadership role focused on delivering an exceptional technology experience for staff and students, enabling schools to achieve their strategic goals through effective and well-governed technology services. Who We Are Looking For: We are seeking a customer focused IT leader with experience delivering high-quality technology services across multiple sites within a complex, international environment. You will be a strong people manager, capable of developing and motivating distributed technical teams while building trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and central technology partners. You will bring a broad technical understanding across infrastructure, applications and digital workplace services, combined with the commercial acumen to manage budgets, suppliers and vendor relationships effectively. Comfortable working in a matrix organisation, you will be skilled at balancing competing priorities, driving technology change and influencing outcomes through collaboration rather than direct control. A degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience) is essential, alongside a proven track record of leading IT service delivery, technology initiatives and operational improvement. Experience within the education sector and relevant certifications such as ITIL or PMP would be advantageous. Working Arrangement: 4 days per week Office or GCC schools, 1 day working from home This role can be based out of Saudi, Qatar, Oman, Quwait or Dubai, with regular travel to schools within the GCC COG. For the full Role Profile, please Click Here. How to Apply: Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is: Sunday 4th October 2026. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background. Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant. Show more Show less

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related discipline (or equivalent experience). Proven track record of leading IT service delivery and operational improvement. Experience managing budgets, suppliers and vendor relationships.

Lead the local IT Technician team and oversee service delivery, technology operations, lifecycle planning and local projects. Manage budgets, suppliers, risks and performance. Act as the trusted technology partner to local leadership and collaborate with Group technology teams to implement strategy, embed standards and drive continuous improvement across all schools. Balance competing priorities, drive technology change and influence outcomes through collaboration. Ensure staff and students have a reliable, secure and high-quality IT experience across multiple sites.