Many small and medium-sized businesses face the same problem: IT should be handled professionally, but hiring a full-time IT manager is too expensive. The solution? IT Manager as a Service.
In this article, we explain what IT Manager as a Service means, who it's for, and what benefits it offers.
What does IT Manager as a Service mean?
IT Manager as a Service is an outsourced IT leadership model where a company gets access to an experienced IT professional for a monthly fee – without the costs of a full-time employee.
The service typically includes:
- IT strategy planning and development
- IT budget management and monitoring
- Vendor management and competitive tendering
- Developing and enforcing security policies
- Managing the lifecycle of devices and software
- Leading IT projects
- IT training and support for staff
- Reporting to management
Who is IT Manager as a Service for?
The service is especially suitable for:
- Companies with 10–100 employees that have IT needs but no in-house IT department
- Growing companies whose IT needs are becoming more complex
- Companies with IT support but no strategic IT expertise
- Companies preparing for e.g. security certification or GDPR requirements
IT Manager as a Service vs. full-time IT Manager
| Feature | IT Manager as a Service | Full-time IT Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | From €990/month | €4,000–6,000/month + overheads |
| Commitment | Monthly contract, 1 month notice | Employment contract, 1–6 months notice |
| Expertise | Broad, cross-industry experience | One person's expertise |
| Availability | Agreed hours per month | Full-time |
| Holidays | No impact on service | Substitute needed |
| Scalability | Easily expandable | Hard to scale quickly |
What are the benefits of IT Manager as a Service?
1. Significant cost savings
The total cost of a full-time IT manager (salary + overheads + tools + training) is easily €60,000–80,000 per year. IT Manager as a Service typically costs €12,000–24,000 per year.
2. Broad expertise
You get access to a professional who has seen many kinds of IT environments and solved various problems. Instead of one person, you get the expertise of an entire team.
3. Flexibility
The scope of the service can be adjusted as needed. During busier times, you get more hours; during quieter times, fewer.
4. Strategic perspective
IT Manager as a Service brings strategic IT expertise to your company that IT support alone doesn't offer. You get help with decision-making: what to buy, when, and why.
5. Security and compliance assurance
GDPR, NIS2, security certifications – IT Manager as a Service helps ensure your company meets legal and standards requirements.
What IT Manager as a Service is not?
The best solution is usually a combination:
- IT support (e.g. remote and on-site support) handles daily problems
- IT Manager as a Service handles strategic planning and leadership
How to get started with IT Manager as a Service
- Map your needs: What IT challenges does your company have? What goals do you want to achieve?
- Choose a partner: Find an IT Manager service with experience in your industry.
- Start small: Start with e.g. a 5–10 hour monthly package and expand as needed.
- Evaluate regularly: Review results every 3–6 months and adjust the scope of the service.
Summary
IT Manager as a Service is a smart solution for SMEs that need strategic IT expertise without the costs of a full-time employee.
It offers:
- Significant cost savings
- Broad expertise
- Flexibility and scalability
- Strategic perspective for IT decisions
- Security and compliance assurance
If your company's IT needs a professional approach, IT Manager as a Service may be exactly the solution you've been looking for.
Interested in IT Manager as a Service?
Contact us and tell us about your company's IT needs. You'll get a free assessment and quote.
Request a free assessment →📞 Or call: +358 45 114 0016