Strategic Data Processing Manager Job Description

Summary

Data processing managers (DPMs) supervise overall data processing services of a company, provide technical and human resource assistance for business and other applications, including systems analysis, design and research. The data processing managers are also responsible for overall computer operations. They have functional responsibilities and must possess technical knowledge of data processing and financial procedures.

Duties

Data processing managers are under the general direction of finance directors, but DPMs have direct supervision over professional and technical staff. Data processing managers plan, organize and manage the company’s data processing operations, develop and utilize goals, objectives, and priorities set by them, as well as plan, schedule and supervise the work of the data processing department. Data processing managers also provide technical expertise to the data processing department concerning operational priorities, evaluate the company’s data processing needs, meet and coordinate activities with data processing vendors, determine equipment needs and make assessments. They are also responsible for equipment procurement and installation, providing assistance to other departments; evaluating and recommending appropriate programs, monitoring and assessing installed applications and meeting with users to determine data processing needs. Sometimes, data processing managers also identify and fix information system problems, determine new system requirements, modifications or upgrades necessary to existing systems, create systems and supporting documentation, oversee and coordinate overall systems development and modification of applications software.

Education and Training Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in computer science, business administration, or a related field plus five years experience as a data processing manager are required. No certification is needed to land this position, but is highly preferred by employees.

Knowledge and Skills Requirements

The ability to analyze and trouble shoot complex problems are required. Analytical skills are essential for this job. Interpersonal, communication, management, leadership and teamwork skills are required for one to be a capable data processing manager.

Working Conditions

Data processing managers work in well-lighted and well-ventilated rooms. However, due to the sensitive nature of the equipments, most of them are placed in lower-than-normal temperatures. DPMs are exposed to the noises of the equipments. Meeting deadlines and personnel issues can make the job stressful. Working long hours due to deadline schedules and emergencies is required including night, weekend and holiday work.

Salary

A data processing manager makes $50,000 annually on average. Factors such as size of company, location, nature of the industry, benefits and experience may cause salaries to vary considerably among data processing managers.