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 & GrowthSet the technology vision and roadmap in alignment with business goalsTranslate operational challenges into scalable technical solutionsData & Security Excellence

Ensure the security and integrity of sensitive student and school dataOversee 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 platformsOversee software development lifecycle from initial planning through to releaseEvaluate and implement new tools, platforms, and integrations that improve efficiency and scalabilityOperational Impact

Ensure uptime, reliability, and performance of systems during critical production windowsLead cross-functional collaboration with Operations, Customer Support, and SalesOptimize processes for data handling, automation, and reportingWhat Success Looks Like

Systems are secure, stable, and scalable during peak seasonsData flows are accurate, efficient, and trusted by school partnersThe development team consistently delivers innovative, business-driven solutionsWho You Are

A problem solver who is able to work interdepartmentally with other company leadersA passionate, proven leader with experience managing and developing IT and/or software development teamsComfortable working in data-heavy, compliance-driven environmentsStrong understanding of: Infrastructure, networking, and system securitySoftware development practices and workflowsData management and integration systemsAble to balance big-picture strategy with hands-on execution