IT & Development Manager (Data-Driven School Services) in Durham, North Carolina at Strawbridge Studios Inc

IT & Development Manager (Data-Driven School Services)

Lead. Innovate. Protect What Matters. Build What’s Next.

At Strawbridge Studios, we don’t just take school pictures—we power the systems behind millions of student records, images, and memories.

We are seeking a dynamic IT & Development Manager to lead both our Infrastructure (IT) and Software Development teams—someone who can balance common sense business practices, employee development and company growth while building systems that serve schools, families, and our internal teams with excellence in technology, data integrity and customer experience. Our IT department should function as a strategic partner in the business, not just support.

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead and develop high-performing IT and Software Development teams through a culture of Integrity, Candor, Innovation & Growth
• Set the technology vision and roadmap in alignment with business goals
• Translate operational challenges into scalable technical solutions

Data & Security Excellence

• Ensure the security and integrity of sensitive student and school data
• Oversee compliance with data privacy standards (FERPA, SOC 2, third-party data regulations)

Technology & Development Oversight

• Partner with operations to manage all core systems including data intake, production workflows, and customer-facing platforms
• Oversee software development lifecycle from initial planning through to release
• Evaluate and implement new tools, platforms, and integrations that improve efficiency and scalability

Operational Impact

• Ensure uptime, reliability, and performance of systems during critical production windows
• Lead cross-functional collaboration with Operations, Customer Support, and Sales
• Optimize processes for data handling, automation, and reporting

What Success Looks Like

• Systems are secure, stable, and scalable during peak seasons
• Data flows are accurate, efficient, and trusted by school partners
• The development team consistently delivers innovative, business-driven solutions

Who You Are

• A problem solver who is able to work interdepartmentally with other company leaders
• A passionate, proven leader with experience managing and developing IT and/or software development teams
• Comfortable working in data-heavy, compliance-driven environments
• Strong understanding of:
  • Infrastructure, networking, and system security
  • Software development practices and workflows
  • Data management and integration systems
• Able to balance big-picture strategy with hands-on execution