IT/IS Manager

Design Foundry•Hickory, NC

10h

About The Position

The IT / IS Manager is responsible for the stability, security, and scalability of Design Foundry’s technology and information systems. This role blends hands-on technical leadership with strategic systems thinking, ensuring our infrastructure supports manufacturing operations, planning, finance, and people systems while preparing the organization for growth. This leader is both a problem solver on the floor and a trusted partner to leadership, ensuring technology enables productivity, visibility, and informed decision-making across the organization.

Requirements

5–10+ years of progressive IT / IS experience, preferably in manufacturing or operations-heavy environments.
Strong experience managing: Microsoft enterprise environments (M365, AD/Azure) ERP systems (Cruze experience a strong plus) Network infrastructure (Meraki preferred) On-prem servers and hybrid environments
Working knowledge of cybersecurity best practices and IT risk management.
Experience supporting both office and production-floor technology needs.
Ability to translate technical concepts into practical business language.
Calm, steady presence during system issues or outages.
Strong service mindset balanced with accountability and standards.
Proven ability to work cross-functionally with Operations, Finance, HR, and Planning.

Responsibilities

Own and manage DF’s on-site IT infrastructure, including: 220+ PCs and end-user devices Microsoft environment (M365, Azure/AD, Exchange, Teams, SharePoint, etc.) Cruze ERP system (in partnership with Planning, Finance, and Operations) Meraki switches, firewall, and wireless network Four (4) on-site servers (performance, uptime, patching, backups)
Ensure high system availability, reliability, and performance across all shifts and departments.
Oversee system upgrades, patches, lifecycle management, and decommissioning.
Serve as the internal IT owner for Cruze ERP from a systems perspective.
Partner closely with: Planning & Purchasing Manufacturing Leadership Finance & Accounting Data / Power BI resources
Support integrations, reporting needs, data accuracy, EDI stability, and user access.
Coordinate with external vendors/consultants to troubleshoot and optimize ERP performance.
Maintain secure access controls, user permissions, and device management in collaboration with third party management group
Monitor and mitigate cybersecurity risks, including phishing, malware, ransomware, and unauthorized access.
Ensure data backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity plans are in place and tested.
Support compliance needs related to audits, customer requirements, and internal controls.
Lead IT support for associates and leaders across office and manufacturing environments.
Establish clear service expectations, escalation paths, and response times.
Balance responsiveness with root-cause problem solving to reduce repeat issues.
Partner with HR on onboarding/offboarding, equipment provisioning, and access management.
Support reporting and analytics needs in collaboration with Planning, Finance, and Power BI resources.
Ensure systems and data structures enable accurate, timely reporting.
Improve data integrity and system discipline across departments.
Manage relationships with IT vendors, MSPs, software providers, and hardware suppliers.
Evaluate contracts, renewals, and licensing to ensure cost-effective solutions.
Assist with IT budgeting, forecasting, and long-term technology planning.
Act as a thought partner to leadership on technology decisions tied to growth, efficiency, and scale.
Identify opportunities where technology can improve productivity, visibility, and employee experience.
Develop a technology roadmap aligned with Design Foundry’s strategic plan.
Document systems, processes, and standards to reduce single-point dependency.