An information technology (IT) manager does a number of different things, though primarily, his or her duties will involve handling or overseeing technology within a company. This typically applies to the networks, both internal and external, as well as dealing with phone systems and other software issues. The duties of an information technology manager will also typically involve overseeing and working with other IT professionals, often forming teams to handle specific issues or work in a certain area within a company. He or she may also directly oversee the systems at a specific regional or district level, depending on the size of the company.
In a direct capacity, an IT manager will typically oversee the actual hardware and software that creates the network infrastructure for a large company. This means he or she will usually deal with server crashes, setting up new servers, removing old hardware to replace it or streamline a system, and just about any other task involved with computer networking within a company. Depending on the size of the company, this may be done for the entire company, or for a specific region or district within the company.
This individual will also typically deal with telephone systems, internal computer issues, and software management. If a company has a telephone system that allows stores or offices to easily call each other, then an IT manager likely set up the system. Internal systems are also typically overseen by such a manager, and he or she will often deal with massive system crashes or data recovery within a company. The IT manager for a certain district or region will also often consider and use new software for a company, such as operating systems (OS) and similar applications.
An information technology manager within a company will usually oversee other IT professionals to ensure that work is done. This involves leadership and the ability to effectively delegate tasks and utilize the talents and knowledge of various people. Large companies may have IT professionals on staff at different offices or locations, and a manager may go to those locations to ensure work is being done properly or to introduce new systems to the other staff. At a regional level, he or she may work with other IT professionals each day to deal with server issues and keep networks running smoothly.