IT managers oversee computer systems, internet applications, and communication devices. Qualifications vary, but most have an undergraduate degree and industry-related experience. They must also manage personnel and may need business or management degrees. Some companies outsource IT operations and require foreign workers with language skills.
An information technology (IT) manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations involving computer systems, Internet applications and communication devices. IT manager qualifications vary between employers, but most people employed in this role have completed some form of undergraduate degree. Additionally, as with most managerial roles, companies often hire managers with previous industry-related experience.
Software developers, communications companies, and other IT companies employ a large number of departmental managers, each of whom is responsible for managing one aspect of the company’s operations. IT manager qualifications can include job-specific academic credentials, such as an undergraduate degree in computer science, or completion of a more general industry-related course, such as an IT degree. Companies working in other industry sectors also hire IT managers, although these individuals are typically tasked with managing technical support staff and communications systems, rather than people involved in the development or design of new software or technology. Therefore, these companies often appoint individuals with degrees in managerial roles, while some IT companies also require job applicants to complete graduate programs.
In addition to having knowledge of communication systems and software, an IT manager must also be able to manage personnel and, in many cases, is responsible for hiring, training and firing workers. Consequently, IT manager qualifications, listed in job postings, may include a business administration or management degree. People who do not have management-related academic credentials are sometimes required to attend short-term management training courses offered by many community colleges.
While some companies buy frequently used types of software and computer programs, other firms hire IT companies to develop software tailored to the specific needs of the company. Many companies prefer to promote employees from within to ensure that employees at the management level are familiar with the company’s operating systems. In some cases, IT manager qualifications listed in internal job postings include a minimum number of years of internal service. Other companies rely on generic software and computer technology; in this case, candidates for managerial roles may need to have knowledge of these systems.
Some companies outsource IT operations to foreign countries where wages and operating costs are lower. Foreign workers applying for managerial positions need to have the same type of academic credentials as domestic workers, but these individuals must also have second language skills. Some companies require foreign workers to have completed a degree program in languages, while other companies put these applicants through a written or verbal language test.
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