IT Operational Readiness Lead

Summary

Salary: Competitive plus comprehensive benefits package
Grade: 3A
Reporting Line: Head of Introduction & Improvement Management
Contact Type: Permanent
Location: London

What to expect

As a IT Operational Readiness Lead, you will join us on our journey and undertake a truly valuable role responsible for defining, building, delivering and assure IT services that support the Post Office business and are fully aligned to the Post Office strategy, IT Strategy and target operating model.

You will be a lead practitioner within the Introduction & Improvement Management team, providing senior capability to shape, embed, and assure the operational viability of services before they enter live operation.

This role offers you a unique opportunity to influence programmes and product teams early, driving consistent standards, and providing independent challenge to ensure operational risks are understood and managed.

How our people behave is as important to Post Office, as what is delivered. The IT Operational Readiness Lead, will role model the Post Office behaviours and demonstrate a Postmaster first mindset

What we can do for you

Our business is changing and we understand that attracting the right talent is pivotal in driving the positive change needed, to help us achieve our ambitious goals. Beyond a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• 27.5 days annual leave (rising to 30 after 2 years), plus bank holidays


• Up to 18% on target bonus opportunity


• Annual car allowance


• Generous pension scheme with minimum 9% employer contribution


• Access to 24/7 digital GP services and our Employee Assistance Programme


• 6 x Life assurance and income protection after 12 months service


• Over 400 online courses, mentoring, apprenticeships, and development programmes


• Access to our benefits platform for exclusive discounts & savings

Click here for a detailed overview of our benefits

What you’ll need to succeed

To be successful in this role you will have significant experience operating in IT Service Management, Service Design & Transition, or Operational Readiness roles within complex, enterprise environments

As a IT Operational Readiness Lead, you will have experience defining and embedding frameworks, standards, and governance models to assure services entering live operation.  In addition to this, the ideal candidate will:

• ITIL Foundation or equivalent service management certification.


• Proven experience managing teams that support both operational service delivery and technology adoption


• Demonstrable experience providing independent assurance, oversight, and challenge across complex programmes and product-based delivery models.


• Strong track record of influencing senior stakeholders and delivery teams to embed operational considerations early in the lifecycle.


• Experience driving continuous improvement in operational practices, using insight, feedback, and lessons learned from live services


• Experience working across cross-functional teams, including Product, Engineering, Service Operations, and Delivery, to drive consistent outcomes.


• Proven ability to identify and manage operational risks, issues, and dependencies within change portfolios.


• Experience of operating within governance forums, readiness reviews, and go/no-go decision-making environments.


• Project or programme management certification (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile).

About us

At Post Office Ltd, we’re proud to be at the heart of communities across the UK, upheld by the dedication and service of our postmasters. We offer essential services that people rely on every day, from parcels and banking to identity and government services. While we continue to evolve with digital innovation, our commitment to personal, face-to-face service remains core to who we are.

Our journey is one of reflection, growth, and meaningful change. We’re looking for people who think differently. Those with resilience, purpose, and a deep sense of responsibility to our postmasters, partners and the communities they serve.

If you're driven by the chance to make a real impact and help shape a future, built on progress and integrity, we’d love to hear from you. For more details visit careers.postoffice.co.uk

Application Guidance

Our commitment to embracing diversity extends beyond just words. While we’ve outlined key skills above, we recognise that great candidates come from a variety of backgrounds. We value diverse perspectives and are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we recognise the value people with disabilities can bring to our business. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process or would like further details on the job description, please contact [email protected]

We’re thrilled by your interest in this opportunity and truly value every application we receive. Please note the advert may close early if we receive a high volume of applications. Unfortunately, we’re unable to provide individual feedback on all submissions.