IT Manager at Zanders Sporting Goods in Sparta, IL

Position Summary

Zanders Sporting Goods, a family-owned wholesale distribution company in business for more than 60 years, is seeking an experienced and motivated IT Manager to lead and oversee our organization’s information technology operations. The ideal candidate will be responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing the organization’s information technology operations. This role manages IT staff, systems, infrastructure, and vendors to ensure secure, reliable, and efficient technology services aligned with business objectives. The IT Manager establishes policies, manages budgets, and ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and company standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee daily IT operations, including help desk support, systems administration, and infrastructure.
• Supervise, train, evaluate, and discipline IT staff in accordance with company policies.
• Develop, implement, and maintain IT policies, procedures, and standards.
• Plan, deploy, and maintain hardware, software, networks, and security systems.
• Ensure data security, backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity practices are in place.
• Manage IT vendors, service providers, contracts, and licensing agreements.
• Develop and manage the IT budget, including forecasting and cost control.
• Lead IT projects, including system upgrades, implementations, and process improvements.
• Monitor system performance, availability, and capacity planning.
• Collaborate with leadership to align IT strategy with organizational goals.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state (including Illinois), and local laws and regulations.
• Respond to and manage escalated IT issues and incidents.
• Provide hands-on technical support as needed.
• Participate in cross-functional initiatives and special projects.
• Other duties as assigned.

Pay Information

The Illinois minimum wage is $15.00 per hour. Wage or salary for this position will be based on the candidate’s qualifications, skills, experience, and overall fit for the role.

Benefits

• 401(k) with employer match
• Profit Sharing
• Health/Dental/Vision/Life insurance
• Accident/Critical Illness Short/Long Term Disability
• PTO/Holiday Pay
• Employee Discounts (conditions apply)

EOE Statement

Zanders Sporting Goods is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• FOID Card, required for Illinois residents.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive IT experience, including supervisory or managerial responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of IT infrastructure, networking, systems administration, and cybersecurity.
• Experience managing IT budgets and vendor relationships.
• Demonstrated leadership and people-management skills.
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must have proven ability in Windows Server, Active Directory and back office server hardware.
• Must have proven ability in setup, configuration, maintenance of SAN storage software/hardware.