Information Systems Manager

Your Fit

Income

$132K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

15.4%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Information Systems Manager?

Information Systems Managers are responsible for overseeing an organization's technology infrastructure and information systems. They strategize, coordinate, and manage computer-related activities, ensuring that technology resources align with the organization's goals.

Sample job titles:

Information Systems Director (IS Director), Information Systems Manager (IS Manager), Information Technology Director (IT Director), Information Technology Manager (IT Manager)

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Information Systems Manager.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does an Information Systems Manager earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Information Systems Manager.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$88K per year	$107K per year	$132K per year	$165K per year	$201K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $67K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does an Information Systems Manager do?

Work environment

These managers typically work in an office environment, often within the IT departments of companies across various industries. Their role may involve collaborating with other department heads, leading teams, and communicating with external vendors. The work often demands full-time hours, with additional time during critical projects or system upgrades.

Quick task list

Develops and implements IT strategies and policies.
Oversees the maintenance and security of information systems.
Manages IT budgets and purchasing decisions.
Leads IT project management and system deployment.
Supervises IT staff and coordinates with other departments.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Cybersecurity Management: Focusing on protecting organizational data and systems from cyber threats.
IT Project Management: Specializing in overseeing IT projects from conception to implementation.
Network Infrastructure: Managing an organization's internal and external communication networks.
Data Management and Analytics: Specializing in data storage, processing, and analysis strategies.

Description

Information Systems Managers are critical in bridging technology and business objectives. They need to have a solid understanding of current technology trends and how they can be applied to improve efficiency and effectiveness within an organization. This involves not only technical expertise but also strategic planning, as they must align technology initiatives with business goals.

Strong leadership and communication skills are essential, as Information Systems Managers often lead diverse teams, including technical staff, and must communicate complex IT concepts to non-technical stakeholders. They are responsible for hiring and training IT staff, managing projects, and ensuring that their team delivers technology solutions that meet organizational needs.

The role requires a proactive approach to managing technology risks and ensuring data security. Information Systems Managers must stay abreast of cybersecurity trends and regulations to protect sensitive data and maintain business continuity. They also play a pivotal role in digital transformation initiatives, leveraging technology to drive innovation.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a key role in shaping an organization's technological direction.
Leading and developing a team of IT professionals.
The opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and drive innovation.

You might make a good Information Systems Manager if you are...

Passionate about technology and its application in solving business problems.
A strategic thinker with strong leadership and project management skills.
Skilled in communication and able to translate technical language for various audiences.
Interested in continuous learning and staying up-to-date with IT trends.
Analytical and adept at problem-solving.

Pros:

High Demand: As technology becomes increasingly integral to business operations, the demand for skilled Information Systems Managers continues to grow.
Lucrative Salary: The role often comes with a high salary, reflecting the importance and complexity of the work.
Leadership Role: Offers the opportunity to lead IT teams and make impactful decisions on technology strategy.
Dynamic Field: The rapid evolution of technology keeps the job interesting, with continuous learning and adaptation.

Cons:

High Stress and Responsibility: Involves managing critical aspects of a company's operations, which can be stressful, especially when dealing with system failures or security breaches.
Long Hours: May require working beyond standard business hours, particularly during system upgrades or emergencies.
Constant Need for Up-Skilling: The fast pace of technological change requires ongoing education and skill development.
Budget Constraints: Often requires balancing the need for advanced technology with budget limitations.

How to become an Information Systems Manager

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is typically required. Many Information Systems Managers also hold a master's degree, such as an MBA with a focus on information systems, or relevant certifications in IT management.

High school preparation

Courses:

Computer Science: Fundamental for understanding programming languages and software development.
Mathematics: Essential for problem-solving skills and understanding algorithms.
Business Studies: Offers insights into how businesses operate, which is crucial for aligning IT strategies with business goals.
Physics or Electronics: Useful for understanding hardware and the basics of how computers work.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Computer or Technology Clubs: Provides practical experience in working with technology and developing team projects.
Hackathons or Coding Competitions: Helps in honing programming skills and encourages innovative thinking.
Volunteer or Internship Opportunities: In local businesses or schools' IT departments, to gain real-world experience.

Preparation after high school

Bachelor's Degree: Pursue a bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field.
Certifications: Gain industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA, Cisco's CCNA, or Microsoft's certification programs.
Internships: Seek internships in IT departments or technology firms for hands-on experience.
Networking: Join professional organizations and attend tech conferences to build connections and stay updated on industry trends.

More resources

Association for Information Systems (AIS) - Provides resources and a community for information systems professionals and academics.
Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) - A community for international cybersecurity professionals, offering educational forums, publications, and peer interaction.
CompTIA - Offers IT certifications and resources for various IT career paths.
TechRepublic - Provides the latest news and tips for IT professionals.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - Offers detailed information about the Information Systems Manager occupation, including required skills, job outlook, and educational pathways.
InformationWeek - A valuable resource for technology news, analysis, and insights into the latest IT trends and issues.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.