System support managers are information technology (IT) professionals who supervise activities and staff involved in maintaining a company’s computer operating systems and sub-systems. Because this position requires both technical proficiency and strong leadership capabilities, individuals with a background in computer systems and business management have the best chances for success.
Enrolling in a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Business Administration program with a concentration in computer information systems can be the first step to a rewarding career as a system support manager. Plus, with the 100% online BA in Business Administration – Computer Information Systems program from Florida Institute of Technology, aspiring professionals can continue working while advancing both their careers and education.
Employment Outlook for IT Support Manager Jobs
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that overall employment of computer and information systems managers, including various types of IT support managers, will be very strong in coming years. In fact, BLS projects a 17% increase in employment between 2023 and 2033 for this occupational category, representing much faster job growth than the average of all occupations.
Businesses will need sophisticated computer systems, networks and software applications to remain competitive in an increasingly complex and global environment. Cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI and other technological factors will drive demand for the system support specialists and managers needed to effectively implement, maintain and improve information technology systems.
System Support Manager Job Description
Depending on the organization and specific job description, the duties of a system support manager may be analogous to or overlap those of information systems managers and IT support specialists. For instance, system support managers develop a company’s strategic plan for computer systems according to established goals. They also ensure effective selection, development, implementation, testing and deployment of related hardware, software and other system components.
In addition, system support managers are responsible for monitoring systems to detect deficiencies and recommending changes and solutions. System support managers must have skill with estimating resource requirements and implementation costs. They often present management with proposals or presentations identifying system needs and outlining return on investment.
Other system support manager job duties may include furthering business objectives through interactions with other department heads, external consultants, and software and hardware vendors. System and IT support managers also supervise system support specialists, providing direction and guidance.
An important aspect of this occupation is explaining computer system projects to executives and other non-technical employees in a manner they can understand. Professionals in this role generally provide project status reports to senior management. Often reporting to a chief information officer (CIO), system support managers may also have frequent contact with operations, sales or production departments, depending on the industry.
System support managers usually work in an office setting and put in a standard 40-hour week. However, overtime may be necessary to meet deadlines or to address any problems if systems malfunction. A fast-paced work environment is typical for this profession.
Potential Salary for System Support Managers
According to BLS, the median annual income for all computer and information systems managers was $169,510 in 2023. The highest 10% of earners brought in upwards of $239,200.
Recent bachelor’s degree program graduates typically start out in a system support specialist role. With appropriate experience and training, these professionals can leverage their education and expertise to move into higher-paying manager roles.
Education and Training for IT Support Management Positions
System support managers generally require technical expertise as well as an understanding of business and management principles. Most positions require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field. However, some employers prefer to hire candidates with a dual major in business administration and computer information systems (CIS).
Given this, earning a BA in business administration with a concentration in CIS provides an excellent path toward advancing a career in IT and systems support management. Coursework typically covers an array of topics such as programming in Java and C++, Visual Basic, management information systems and electives. Coursework also offers a comprehensive foundation of business administration and management subjects. Employers can be confident that graduates of a CIS-focused business administration bachelor’s degree program are able to:
- Apply planning, strategy and leadership skills to business challenges
- Create and implement systems and networks to achieve corporate objectives
- Increase output quality and productivity of systems and processes
- Manage complex database and software systems
- Leverage advanced skills and knowledge to succeed as a system support manager
Many employers offer opportunities for continuing education. It may be possible to gain an entry- or mid-level position with a bachelor’s degree and use a tuition assistance program to further one’s education and career.
What Does It Take to Succeed as a System Support Manager?
Successful system support managers are outstanding leaders, capable of making sound business decisions. Excellent communication skills are essential for assigning work to team members and explaining technical subject matter to colleagues in other departments.
Plus, of course, system support managers must have excellent technical skills and experience with the various platforms and technologies they employ. Florida Tech’s online BA in Business Administration – CIS program can help professionals develop the computer expertise and management capabilities required to excel in a system support manager career.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online BA in Business Administration – CIS program.
