IT Manager

Company Overview Ghost is an inventory distribution platform and operating system for modern retail trade. We partner with the world’s best brands to help them understand the true value of their inventory and route it to the right destinations globally. Ghost gives brands precise control over where and how their inventory is sold. Backed by top venture firms including L Catterton, Cathay Innovation, Union Square Ventures, Equal Ventures, and Eniac. Ghost has offices in Los Angeles and New York. About the Role We are seeking an IT Manager to own our IT operations, systems administration, and help shape how our IT function scales as Ghost grows. This role combines hands-on technical ownership with day-to-day troubleshooting, infrastructure planning, vendor management, and security best practices. The ideal candidate brings strong experience in systems administration, network administration, IT security, and vendor/budget management, and is comfortable working as a hands-on owner of Ghost’s technology environment. This role will work onsite in our office in Los Angeles (mid-city). Key Responsibilities Own IT operations, providing hands-on support for desktop, laptop, and mobile devices, and building scalable processes for hardware, software, and network-related issues. Diagnose and resolve IT problems across workstations, servers, and cloud-based applications, identifying root causes and implementing fixes that reduce recurring issues. Serve as the primary administrator for all of Ghost’s internal systems, platforms, and tools, including Windows and macOS environments, Google Workspace, and other cloud services. Manage and continuously improve our network infrastructure, including firewalls, VPNs, switches, and routers, to ensure secure, reliable, and scalable connectivity as the company grows. Oversee software deployment, patch management, and remote desktop services. Manage vendor and third-party provider relationships, including contract negotiations and procurement, to ensure reliable and cost-effective IT services. Manage software costs: own the budgeting, tracking, and forecasting of software and IT spend, and negotiate renewals and contracts to control costs. Evaluate Ghost’s current tech stack and make recommendations to reduce overall spend, continuing to manage and optimize vendor spend over time. Maintain and strengthen our IT security practices, including endpoint protection, data encryption, and access control. Lead IT projects from planning through execution, including system upgrades, cloud migrations, and cybersecurity initiatives. Develop, own, and enforce IT policies, documentation, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) company-wide. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field preferred. 5+ years of experience in IT support, systems administration, or network engineering, including hands-on ownership of day-to-day IT operations. Proven experience managing IT budgets, software costs, and vendor contracts. Expertise in Windows and Mac environments, Google Workspace, Active Directory, Group Policy, and Office 365 administration. Strong knowledge of networking (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, VPNs, firewalls). Hands-on experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Experience with ITSM tools (e.g., ServiceNow, Jira, or Zendesk). Experience negotiating vendor contracts and managing third-party IT service providers. Certifications such as CCNA, MCSE, AWS Certified SysOps Administrator, or CompTIA Security+ are a plus. Familiarity with scripting languages (e.g., PowerShell, Python) is a plus. Strong project management, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives and priorities simultaneously. Ability to operate independently, set priorities, and drive projects to completion with minimal oversight. Strong attention to detail and a customer-focused mindset. This role will be based in our LA office. Our total compensation for this position can range from $85,000 - 100,000. The actual amounts may vary based on factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the position. Benefits we offer: Medical, Vision, and Dental with some plans covered at 100% Competitive compensation and equity structure 401K Unlimited PTO Ghost is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative environment where all employees can thrive. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable laws.