Technical Services - Mgr Computer Operations

We are currently looking for a Manager, Computer Operations to join our team at WoodmenLife.
As a Manager, Computer Operations, you’ll lead a team of dedicated professionals who ensure the smooth, uninterrupted operation of our critical business systems in a 24x5 environment. You’ll manage daily operations, coach and develop a high-performing team, and serve as both Product Owner and Scrum Master for strategic initiatives. This role is essential to keeping our systems running efficiently while also driving innovation and continuous improvement.
If you’re a strong leader with a passion for operational excellence, team development, and cross-functional collaboration, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.


Why would you enjoy working as a Manager, Computer Operations at WoodmenLife?
Variety! No two days are the same in Operations. You’ll balance the essential responsibility of maintaining and supporting daily production systems with forward-thinking initiatives that improve how we work. It’s a dynamic mix of innovation and reliability that keeps things fresh and meaningful.
Team Culture. Our team is made up of dependable, dedicated professionals who take pride in their work. You’ll also be part of a broader Technical Services (Infrastructure & Operations) group that’s highly skilled and incredibly supportive. You’ll never feel like you’re going alone.
Strong Reputation. We’ve built trusted relationships across the organization. Other departments know they can count on us, which makes collaboration smoother and more rewarding.
If you’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving problems, and loves helping others succeed, this is a role where you can truly make an impact.


What we are looking for:
• A leader who can hire, coach, and manage a team of 7 associates (2 exempt, 5 non-exempt) in a 24x5 shift environment.
• Someone who can oversee daily operations, resolve system issues, and ensure timely completion of production processes.
• Be a collaborator who works well with internal teams, including Technical Services, Agile teams, Facilities, and business users.
• Be a strategic thinker who can manage vendor relationships, department budgets, and data center operations.
• A servant leader who can act as both Product Owner and Scrum Master, helping the team deliver value through agile practices.
• A professional who can serve as a backup to the Sr. Operations Analyst when needed.


Technology You’ll Work With:
• Core Tools: Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, Excel), Dayforce, Lawson, ServiceNow
• Operations Tech: Mainframe z/OS, Control-M (mainframe and distributed)


What You Bring to the Table:
Essential Job Functions
• Plans, directs, and monitors computer operations to optimize the use of the organization’s information processing systems and resources.
• Hires, leads, coaches, and mentors a team of operations technicians and analysts in a 24x5 shift environment. Ensures engagement and productivity through consistent communication, goal setting, performance reviews, and identifying training and development opportunities.
• Oversees daily activities of the computer operations department.
• Manages vendor and contract relationships related to operations.
• Develops and manages departmental and operational budgets.
• Monitors the physical data center environment to ensure optimal electrical, heating, cooling, and facility conditions.
• Collaborates with technical and business teams to ensure continuity and successful delivery of services across the organization.
• Provides backup support for the Sr. Operations Analyst role as needed.
Suggestion: Move this to “Preferred Qualifications” if it’s not a core responsibility.
• Ensures alignment between business initiatives and timely, high-quality implementation of technology solutions.
• Serves as Agile Product Owner for the team, managing and prioritizing the work backlog and collaborating with partner teams to deliver business value.
• Serves as Agile Scrum Master, facilitating workflow, ensuring timely completion of planned work, and managing inter-team dependencies.
• Develops and manages the annual budget, ensuring financial accountability.
• Designs, deploys, and maintains effective backup, restore, and recovery strategies for computer operations.
• Meets expectations for attendance and punctuality in accordance with company policy.
• Performs other duties as assigned by management.


Minimum Qualifications
The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:
• Bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field or equivalent work experience.
• Five or more years of operations experience in a technology environment.
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