How to become an information systems manager

Ready to plan your information systems career path? Let’s start with the courses that will pave the way for your first job in the sector.

1. Earn a Bachelor of Information Technology. An associate degree or diploma in IT could also qualify you for some entry-level roles.
2. Advance your career by earning a postgraduate degree in information systems like a Master of Management Information Systems. 
3. Technology is a fast-changing sector, so continue to refresh your skills with a single subject, short course or microcredential at an undergraduate or postgraduate level.

Information systems managers help the companies they work for make technology-related decisions. They’re responsible for the business’s networks, applications, programs and devices. As part of their job, they make recommendations that involve significant budget investments. Once they have secured approval for their recommendation, they then implement the rollout. 

Business information systems careers demand technical knowledge, people skills and project management expertise.

Duties and tasks

• Create IT strategies and policies
• Manage IT department budget according to priorities
• Partner other department leads to service their technology needs
• Plan necessary improvements to software/hardware
• Hire and train IT professionals to support planned projects
• Plan and provide user training for new IT resources
• Keep up to date with changing cybersecurity needs 
  
  

Industry bodies

Association for Information Systems (AIS)

AIS aims to champion excellence in the practice and study of information systems and is the industry’s premier professional association worldwide. 

Australian Computer Society (ACS)

ACS represents tech professionals across industry, government and education. It has advocated Australia’s digital agenda at the World Economic Forum. Members can keep their knowledge current via events, research reports and free upskilling content. 

Information Technology Professionals Association (ITPA)

ITPA’s vision is for its members to deliver outcomes that enhance society through the application of technology. Members can access mentoring opportunities, as well as conferences and networking events.

Information systems jobs

There’s never been a better time to join the profession. Opportunities in information systems are expected to grow 17.7% by 2026, which translates into 14,400 more positions as compared to 2021. 

Some job roles you’re likely to encounter include:

• Business analyst
• Chief information officer
• Database manager
• Data engineer
• Information security analyst
• Project manager
• Systems analyst
• Support analyst
• Trainer