OPS Manager: Facilities Management (IT Facility)

Explore the role of an OPS Manager: Facilities Management (IT Facility). Learn job purpose, skills, requirements, career growth.

Introduction: Why This Role Matters in Today’s World

In the digital age, where data centres power everything from banking to online shopping, having the right professionals managing IT facilities is crucial. One of the most essential roles in this space is the OPS Manager: Facilities Management (IT Facility). This role is not just about overseeing buildings – it’s about ensuring that critical infrastructure, power systems, and IT environments are reliable, efficient, and secure.

If you’ve ever wondered about what this job involves, the skills required, career opportunities, and how to apply, this article will serve as a complete guide.

What Is an OPS Manager: Facilities Management (IT Facility)?

An OPS Manager: Facilities Management (IT Facility) is a professional responsible for managing and maintaining the operational infrastructure of data centres and IT facilities. This includes everything from electrical systems, HVAC units, and fire protection, to logistics, workplace safety, and ensuring smooth day-to-day facility operations.

In simpler terms, think of this role as the guardian of IT environments – making sure the systems, people, and processes behind critical facilities are always working optimally.

Job Purpose Explained

The primary purpose of the role is to:

Oversee multiple sites and staff.
Develop and implement maintenance plans for buildings and IT-related infrastructure.
Support business operations with logistics and technical services.
Maintain compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
Ensure IT facilities operate at the highest possible uptime and efficiency.

For organizations like SARS (South African Revenue Service), which handle national revenue, compliance, and public data, this role is mission-critical.

Minimum Education and Experience Required

The educational background and experience required for this position usually include:

Bachelor’s Degree / Advanced Diploma / BTech in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering.
5–7 years’ experience in Facilities Management or the Built Environment.
2–3 years of supervisory experience.
Exposure to Facilities Management in Data Centre environments (advantageous).
Management qualifications are an added benefit.

Alternative Path:

If you don’t hold a degree, you can qualify with:

A Senior Certificate (Matric).
10 years of Facilities Management experience in the Built Environment.
At least 2–3 years in a supervisory role.

This flexibility shows that the industry values experience as much as academic qualifications.

Key Responsibilities of the OPS Manager

The role covers a wide spectrum of responsibilities, which can be grouped into core areas:

🔹 Process & Operations

Manage infrastructure such as generators, UPSs, chillers, HVACs, and fire detection systems.
Oversee contracts and service providers (cleaning, landscaping, pest control, etc.).
Plan preventive maintenance and lifecycle programs.
Resolve queries and escalate major facility issues.
Maintain compliance with building codes, laws, and safety regulations.

🔹 Governance

Ensure all facility work follows policies, governance frameworks, and legislative requirements.
Apply risk management practices to minimize liability.
Monitor landlord obligations and resolve related disputes.

🔹 People & Team Management

Supervise staff and outsourced contractors.
Develop people through coaching, mentorship, and skills transfer.
Encourage teamwork and collaboration.

🔹 Finance & Budgeting

Prepare and manage budgets aligned with operational plans.
Control costs and track savings initiatives.
Monitor variances and report financial performance.

🔹 Client Relations

Build a customer service excellence culture.
Implement processes that encourage client satisfaction and responsiveness.

Technical Competencies Needed

This role blends technical knowledge with leadership skills. The key competencies include:

Computer literacy (essential for system monitoring and reporting).
Facilities management expertise.
Project management skills.
Electrical and mechanical systems understanding.
Budget management and cost control.
Query resolution and problem-solving.
Effective communication and business writing.

Behavioural Competencies

Beyond technical ability, soft skills define how effective an OPS Manager will be. Successful candidates often demonstrate:

Honesty and Integrity (key for handling sensitive information).
Problem-solving ability to diagnose and resolve issues quickly.
Leadership and team mobilization to drive staff performance.
Adaptability and resilience in fast-changing IT environments.
Customer service orientation to balance internal and external client needs.

Why IT Facility Management Roles Are Growing

The demand for professionals in IT facility management is increasing globally. Several reasons fuel this trend:

Data centre expansion – With more cloud computing and digital services, the need for robust IT facilities is higher than ever.
Cybersecurity and compliance – Facilities need to comply with data protection and operational resilience standards.
Green building initiatives – Energy-efficient systems, such as smart HVAC and renewable energy integration, require skilled managers.
Complex infrastructure – Facilities now include IoT, AI-driven systems, and automated monitoring, which require technical oversight.

Career Growth Opportunities

Becoming an OPS Manager: Facilities Management (IT Facility) can open doors to senior roles such as:

Head of Facilities
Director of Infrastructure and Operations
Chief Operations Officer (COO) in facilities-driven industries
Consultant in Data Centre Facilities Management

In addition, managers often gain experience that can lead to entrepreneurial opportunities in facilities consulting or infrastructure services.

Average Salary Range in South Africa

The salary for an OPS Manager in Facilities Management varies depending on experience, location, and industry.

Entry to Mid-Level: R450,000 – R650,000 per year.
Senior Level / IT Facility Specialist: R700,000 – R950,000 per year.
Highly Experienced Professionals (10+ years in IT facilities): Over R1 million annually.

This competitive salary reflects the responsibility and complexity of managing IT-related infrastructure.

Challenges in the Role

Like all careers, being an OPS Manager: Facilities Management (IT Facility) has challenges:

Balancing budget constraints with facility needs.
Ensuring zero downtime in IT environments.
Managing multiple contractors and service providers.
Adapting to rapidly changing technology.
Handling emergencies (power outages, fires, equipment breakdowns).

However, for many professionals, these challenges are part of the excitement of the role.

How to Apply for This Role

Here are practical steps if you’re considering applying for a role like this (especially within organisations like SARS):

Update Your CV – Highlight facilities management experience, technical knowledge, and leadership roles.
Prepare Certifications – Include engineering qualifications, safety certificates, and management training.
Write a Tailored Cover Letter – Demonstrate how your experience matches the job purpose.
Apply Online – Submit your application through official portals such as SARS’s recruitment site.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Prepare for Assessments – Be ready for psychometric tests, case studies, or technical interviews.
Show Integrity – Since this role may involve sensitive information, background and reference checks are mandatory.

Skills to Develop for Future Readiness

Even if you meet the requirements, upskilling is vital to stay competitive. Focus on:

Sustainable building management (energy-efficient systems).
Advanced project management certifications (PMP, PRINCE2).
Digital facility management tools (IoT, smart monitoring).
Leadership and coaching skills for managing diverse teams.
Risk management training to comply with governance policies.

Why Work at SARS in Facilities Management?

Choosing to work as an OPS Manager: Facilities Management (IT Facility) at SARS comes with unique benefits:

Opportunity to serve the nation by supporting tax and compliance operations.
Exposure to cutting-edge IT facility infrastructure.
A culture of integrity, accountability, and innovation.
Career growth within a large, structured organisation.
Contribution to the protection of South Africa’s economy.

Conclusion

The role of an OPS Manager: Facilities Management (IT Facility) is dynamic, rewarding, and critical to modern IT-driven organisations. With responsibilities spanning from technical systems management to team leadership and compliance, this role is perfect for professionals who enjoy problem-solving, managing complex systems, and leading teams.

Whether you are an experienced facilities manager looking for your next step or a professional with technical skills aiming to transition into management, this career offers growth, stability, and the chance to make a real impact.