Studio Lead IT Manager

Cast Iron Games; Wakefield; On-site; GBP 55,000 - GBP 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A game development studio in Wakefield is looking for an experienced Studio Lead IT Manager to oversee IT operations and ensure creative teams have the necessary technology to build high-quality games. Responsibilities include managing infrastructure, leading IT strategy, and ensuring cybersecurity compliance. The ideal candidate has extensive IT management experience, expertise in server administration, and excellent communication skills. The role offers a collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and a range of employee benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days annual leave

Performance bonus potential

Flexible working hours

Private Medical Insurance

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Prior experience in IT management.
• Expertise in server administration and cloud platforms.
• Experience with version control and build automation.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity and data protection.
• Proven track record in managing IT teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain studio-wide IT infrastructure.
• Manage version control and development tool chains.
• Ensure high availability and performance of critical systems.
• Lead and mentor the IT support team.
• Provide strategic technical guidance to studio leadership.

Skills

Windows server administration

Linux server administration

Networking

Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)

Version control systems (Perforce, Git)

Cybersecurity best practices

Technical project management

Excellent communication

Job description

Overview

Who We Are

At Cast Iron Games, we build technically ambitious games in a calm, focused environment, where every team member has a voice. Based in Tileyard North, we collaborate with high quality partners on high-quality projects, guided by clarity, consistency, and mutual respect.

We’re a young and growing studio, but our team is made up of experienced developers who’ve worked across AAA and independent titles. Together, we’re building a supportive, balanced environment where great work happens without crunch.

The Role

The Role

We\'re seeking an experienced Studio Lead IT Manager to oversee all technology infrastructure and IT operations for our game development studio. This role is critical to ensuring our creative teams have the reliable, high-performance systems they need to build exceptional games.

You\'ll lead IT strategy, manage technical infrastructure, and build systems that scale with our studio\'s growth.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities

Infrastructure & Systems Management

• Design, implement, and maintain studio-wide IT infrastructure including networks, servers, workstations, and cloud services

• Manage version control systems, build pipelines, and development tool chains specific to game development

• Ensure high availability and performance of critical systems including source control, asset management, and collaboration platforms

• Oversee data backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity planning

Team Leadership & Support

• Lead and mentor our team with the best IT support, fostering a culture of excellent service and technical excellence

• Provide strategic technical guidance to studio leadership on technology investments and infrastructure planning

• Collaborate with development teams to understand and meet their technical requirements

• Manage relationships with external vendors, service providers, and technology partners

Security & Compliance

• Work with and implement and maintain robust cybersecurity measures to protect intellectual property and sensitive data with the Group

• Ensure compliance with industry standards, data protection regulations, and company security policies

• Manage access controls, authentication systems, and security monitoring

• Conduct regular security audits and risk assessments

Budget & Resource Management

• Develop and manage the IT department budget, optimizing costs while meeting studio needs

• Evaluate and procure hardware, software, and services

• Plan for technology refresh cycles and infrastructure upgrades

• Track and report on IT metrics, performance, and project delivery

What We’re Looking For

What We’re Looking For

Experience

• Prior experience in IT management

• Expertise in Windows and Linux server administration, networking, and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP)

• Experience with version control systems (Perforce, Git) and build automation tools

• Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices and data protection frameworks

• Proven track record of managing IT teams and delivering complex technical projects

• Excellent communication skills with ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders

Bonus Points

• Previous experience in game development or other creative industries

• Experience with DevOps practices and infrastructure as code

• Relevant certifications (ITIL, CISSP, AWS/Azure certifications, etc.)

Why Cast Iron Games

• A people-first studio with a clear focus on craft, clarity, and collaboration

• A high-trust team where experience is valued and voices are heard

• A respectful, experienced team with a strong engineering culture

• The opportunity to ship performance-optimised, cross-platform games you\'re proud of

• Projects that offer real variety. Different game engines, new challenges, constant growth

• Creative surroundings at Tileyard North, with a supportive creative community

• Competitive salary, flexible hours and professional development support

• Opportunities to lead with clarity, autonomy, and real impact

• No crunch. No egos. Just good code, good people and good games

What to Expect / Key Benefits

• Start your day any time between 8:00am and 10:00am

• 35 working hours per week with a 1-hour lunch break (with the opportunity to flex down to 30 minutes or up to 2 hours)

• 25 days annual leave + 8 days bank holiday

• 1 day leave for your birthday and 1 day leave if you\'re moving house

• Length of service increases are 1 day per year of service up to maximum of 8 additional days

• Up to 8 days discretionary annual leave during our end of year break

• Potential for annual performance bonus

• Free breakfast options, juice, hot drinks and fruit

• Employee referral bonus (up to £2000!)

• Group Life Assurance – 4 x annual salary payable to nominated beneficiaries through an expression of wishes form.

• Income Protection – covers you up for up to 50% of monthly salary for 2 years (after a 26 week deferred period, i.e. when SSP runs out)

• Critical Illness Cover – lump sum of 1 x annual salary on diagnosis of a critical illness

• Cycle to Work Scheme

• EV & Hybrid Car Scheme

• Tech Purchase Scheme – split the cost of Tech or Home electronics through salary deduction, interest free

• Healthcare Cash plan – claim back the cost of everyday healthcare, dental, physio, chiropractor, opticians, podiatry etc

• Private Medical Insurance with Vitality

• Reward Gateway with cashback and discounts on 900+ retailers

• Employee Assistance Programme including Virtual GP service

• Wellbeing Centre based on Mind, Move, Munch and Money