Head of Technology
The Opportunity…
At Wolferstans, we offer more than just a job – we cultivate a dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking environment where high performance thrives through collaboration and support.
We have recently received national recognition for our commitment to excellence; winning Silver at the UK Customer Experience Awards for the 2nd year running in the category of “Best CX for Vulnerable Customers” and winning “Excellence in Client Care” at the 2023 LawNet Awards. These awards are alongside our continued presence in the Times Best Law Firms list – why not come and be a part of our success?
What will you do?
The Head of Technology will lead our IT department, managing two specialised teams: Hardware & Cybersecurity and Software Development. You will be responsible for ensuring the firm's IT systems are secure, reliable, and scalable, supporting both operational efficiency and business growth. This is a hands-on leadership role, requiring a strategic mindset as well as technical expertise, with a focus on delivering innovative technology solutions that align with the firm’s objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy:
- Lead and manage two core IT teams: Hardware & Cybersecurity and Software Development.
- Develop and execute the IT strategy aligned with the firm's vision and business objectives.
- Oversee IT budgets, resources, and vendor relationships, ensuring cost-effective solutions. (We use Access Legal SAAS).
- Build and maintain a strong, collaborative IT culture within the firm, promoting continuous improvement and innovation.
Hardware, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure:
- Lead the Hardware & Cybersecurity team of 3 to ensure the highest level of data security, compliance, and risk management across all IT systems.
- Manage cybersecurity policies, procedures, and technologies to protect sensitive client and firm data.
- Oversee the management of the firm’s hosted network infrastructure and hardware, ensuring reliability, scalability, and uptime.
Software Development & Innovation:
- Lead the software development team of 4 to design, implement, and support legal technology solutions, practice management software, and other applications.
- Identify opportunities to integrate emerging technologies that improve operational efficiency, client experience, and legal workflows. (We have an app plus in-house API and codeless platform capabilities).
- Oversee the development of internal tools, platforms, and systems tailored to the firm’s needs.
Collaboration & Support:
- Work closely with senior leadership to identify IT needs, challenges, and opportunities for innovation within legal operations.
- Provide ongoing support for business-critical applications and ensure timely resolution of IT issues.
- Lead the IT team in delivering a responsive and effective IT support service to the entire firm.
Compliance & Risk Management:
- Ensure compliance with data protection laws (including GDPR) and legal industry regulations.
- Manage IT-related audits, assessments, and certifications (e.g. Cyber Essentials Plus and PCI DSS; we partner with Mitigo).
- Continuously assess and mitigate risks associated with IT systems, infrastructure, and data.
What do you offer?
- Experience: At least 5-7 years of IT leadership experience, with a strong background in both hardware/cybersecurity and software development. Experience within a law firm or professional services environment is highly desirable.
- Technical Skills: In-depth knowledge of IT infrastructure, cloud services, networks, and security protocols. Experience with legal technology platforms, document management systems, and case management software is highly desirable.
- Leadership: Proven experience managing cross-functional teams and leading IT projects from conception to completion.
- Cybersecurity Expertise: A strong understanding of cybersecurity threats, risk management, and compliance, especially within a legal context.
- Software Development: Experience in managing or overseeing custom software development projects, with a focus on applications that enhance legal practice efficiency.
- Education: A relevant degree or professional certifications would be an advantage.
- Law Firm Knowledge: Understanding of the legal industry’s technological needs, client confidentiality requirements, and the regulatory environment affecting IT systems.
Why Wolferstans?
You will be part of a supportive and flexible working environment where you have the ability to further your career aspirations. Our benefits package includes 5 weeks annual leave plus bank holidays and an extended break over the Christmas period, you are also awarded a day off for your birthday and will be signed up to our Health Care Plan designed with wellbeing in mind. Furthermore, we organise social gatherings and wellbeing initiatives throughout the year for all our employees, enhancing our supportive and inclusive work culture
We are proud to have been recognised for our dedication to fostering a compassionate workplace environment. We were the first firm in Plymouth to be awarded the title of Compassionate Workplace by St Luke’s Plymouth, and more recently achieved the bronze award for the Wellbeing at Work programme facilitated by Livewell Southwest, with ongoing efforts towards obtaining our silver award.
Next Steps…
Applications will officially close on 31 January 2025. However, we are keen to talk to suitable candidates at the earliest possible opportunity and will close the vacancy to new applications once conversations reach an advanced stage to avoid a delay. We would therefore urge candidates who are interested in this vacancy to get in touch ASAP and discuss the opportunity with us.