IT Manager

About Ascent Chemicals:

At Ascent Chemicals, we are leaders in the manufacturing of chemicals and tubular products, delivering innovative solutions to industries worldwide. With a focus on quality, safety, and sustainability, we continuously strive to exceed customer expectations and drive operational excellence. Our team is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment where talent thrives.

Position Overview:

Ascent Chemicals is seeking an experienced and results-driven IT Manager to lead and oversee our Information Technology department. The IT Manager will play a pivotal role in aligning IT strategy with organizational goals, ensuring seamless technology operations, and driving digital innovation to support our manufacturing and business processes. This role requires a dynamic leader with strong technical expertise, strategic vision, and exceptional problem-solving skills.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning

• Analyze business needs and identify technology solutions to drive operational efficiency and innovation.
• Develop and implement IT roadmaps that align with Ascent Chemicals' organizational goals.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and recommend strategic investments to enhance business capabilities.

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and manage the IT team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Assign tasks, set priorities, and monitor performance to ensure high team productivity.
• Conduct regular training and development initiatives to enhance team skillsets.

Budget Management

• Oversee the IT budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources for projects, operations, and maintenance.
• Monitor and control IT expenditures to maximize ROI while meeting organizational objectives.

System Operations

• Ensure the reliability and performance of all IT systems and infrastructure, including manufacturing-related technologies.
• Troubleshoot technical issues promptly to minimize downtime and disruptions.
• Establish and monitor system performance metrics to optimize operations.

Security Management

• Develop and implement robust security protocols to safeguard company data and IT systems.
• Conduct regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and risk management activities.
• Maintain and enhance cybersecurity measures, including access controls, firewalls, and incident response plans.

Project Management

• Initiate, plan, and execute IT projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to specifications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and implement IT solutions that address business challenges.
• Track project progress and communicate updates to stakeholders.

Vendor Management

• Evaluate and manage relationships with managed services providers and technology vendors.
• Negotiate contracts and service-level agreements to ensure cost-effective and high-quality service delivery.
• Monitor vendor performance to ensure alignment with organizational needs.

User Support

• Provide technical support and guidance to end-users, resolving issues effectively and efficiently.
• Conduct training sessions on new applications and systems to enhance user proficiency.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for IT processes and systems.

Compliance

• Ensure adherence to IT policies, Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance, and relevant audit requirements.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation to support internal and external audits.
• Implement processes to meet regulatory and industry standards.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Proven experience as an IT Manager or in a similar leadership role, preferably in the manufacturing industry.
• Strong technical knowledge of IT systems, infrastructure, and security practices.
• Demonstrated experience with IT project management, including software implementation and system integration.
• Familiarity with compliance standards such as SOX and experience with audit procedures.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.

Why Join Us?
At Ascent Chemicals, you will be part of a forward-thinking team that values innovation, integrity, and collaboration. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth within a supportive and dynamic work environment.