Working as a Network Administrator and wondering what’s next for your career in 2025?
You’re not alone. As technology rapidly evolves and digital transformation becomes non-negotiable for modern businesses, network admins are feeling the pressure to adapt, grow, and lead. The push for seamless remote operations and increased system efficiency has made it clear—it’s time Network Admins level up to IT Manager roles to stay relevant and in demand.
At the heart of this industry shift stands the IT Manager—a role that blends technical expertise with strategic oversight.
Why Make the Leap?
The IT landscape in 2025 is being reshaped by three major forces: digital transformation, hybrid work environments, and a rising demand for cybersecurity.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for computer and information systems managers are expected to grow 15% between 2022 and 2032—a rate much faster than the average for all occupations.
This surge is driven by investments in cloud infrastructure, AI-driven operations, and secure remote access. In short, businesses aren’t just looking for professionals to maintain networks—they need strategic thinkers who can lead digital initiatives, manage diverse teams, and align IT operations with long-term business goals.
For those currently in admin roles, this is a clear signal: Network Admins must level up to IT Manager roles to remain relevant, valuable, and future-ready.
Career & Financial Upside
Stepping into an IT Manager role isn’t just a professional upgrade — it’s a financial one too.
As of 2025, the average salary for IT Managers (based on industry and experience) in the US ranges between $120,000 and $160,000 per year. On the other hand, the salary of a Network Administrator falls between $70,000 and $90,000. Just evaluate the gap.
IT Managers often enjoy comprehensive benefits, bonuses, and access to executive-level decision-making, contributing to strong career growth and job satisfaction.
Shift in Responsibilities
Let us understand how your responsibilities shift from Network Admin to IT Manager. This will refer to a shift of focus from hands-on technical work to strategic leadership.
This blog is your 2025 roadmap — a clear, step-by-step guide to help you understand the skills, certifications, and mindset required to successfully make this leap and lead the future of IT.
Let’s dive in.
What Does an IT Manager Actually Do?
When you move from being a Network Administrator to an IT Manager, your role shifts from focusing on how technology works to why and where it needs to take the business. While both roles are critical to a company’s IT ecosystem, an IT Manager plays a far more strategic and leadership-focused role.
Key Responsibilities of an IT Manager
- Manage IT Operations and Keep Security Intact
An IT Manager ensures smooth IT operations by maintaining network uptime, safeguarding data, and implementing robust security protocols against internal and external threats — a responsibility that’s only becoming more crucial in 2025.
- Lead Teams of Admins, Engineers, and Support Staff
IT Managers manage technical teams, delegate tasks, mentor staff, manage performance, and foster collaboration to ensure cohesive and effective IT operations.
- Handle Budgeting, Vendor Management, and Procurement
They manage IT budgets, negotiate licenses, approve purchases, and work with vendors and consultants to ensure cost-effective, high-quality tech investments.
- Align IT Strategy with Organizational Goals
An IT Manager aligns technology initiatives with business objectives by assessing company needs, identifying system gaps, and implementing scalable, innovative solutions.
- Ensure Compliance and Disaster Recovery Preparedness
They ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA while developing and maintaining disaster recovery plans to protect data and ensure business continuity.
Day-to-Day vs. Network Admin Roles:
| Aspect | Network Administrator | IT Manager |
| Primary Focus | Device setup, maintenance, network troubleshooting. | Has to exhibit leadership, long-term strategy, and alignment with business needs. |
| Responsibilities | Device setup, maintenance, and network troubleshooting. | Configuring routers/switches, monitoring performance, and resolving user issues. |
| Interaction Level | Mainly works within the IT department. | Collaborates across departments: HR, finance, operations, C-suite |
| Decision Making | Executes technical tasks based on directives. | On the other hand, an IT manager sets direction, prioritizes projects, and approves solutions. |
| Vision | Tactical – focused on day-to-day IT operations | Strategic – focused on the future of IT within the business. |
Essential Skills to Transition to IT Manager
Moving from a Network Administrator to an IT Manager in 2025 means building a strong mix of technical expertise, business acumen, leadership skills, and the right certifications to prove your capability.
Technical Skills
- Advanced Networking
Knowledge of SD-WAN, Zero Trust Architecture, and hybrid cloud environments is essential to manage secure, scalable, and efficient networks across remote and on-premises setups.
High-demand certification: Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) — validates deep networking expertise and readiness for enterprise-level roles.
- Cybersecurity
Understand threat detection, incident response, and frameworks like NIST and ISO 27001 to manage risk and ensure compliance.
Important certification: CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) — highly valued for IT leaders overseeing cybersecurity.
- Cloud Platforms
Hands-on experience with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud is essential as more businesses move to hybrid or full-cloud infrastructures.
In-demand certifications: AWS Certified Solutions Architect and Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator — prove cloud architecture and deployment skills.
- Automation & DevOps
Skills in Python, PowerShell, Infrastructure as Code (Terraform), and CI/CD pipelines are critical to optimize processes and reduce manual tasks.
Recommended certification: HashiCorp Certified: Terraform Associate — a plus for managing modern infrastructure environments.
Business & Leadership Skills
- Budgeting & Cost Optimization
The ability to manage CAPEX/OPEX, evaluate ROI, and align technology spending with business goals is a must for IT leadership.
Why does it matter?
IT Managers must justify expenses and ensure that tech delivers measurable business value.
- Vendor & Stakeholder Management
Effectively negotiate contracts, manage vendor relationships, and communicate technical needs to non-technical stakeholders and executives.
Why does it matter?
Bridges the gap between tech teams and business leaders.
- Project Management
Familiarity with Agile, Scrum, and ITIL frameworks helps deliver IT projects on time and within scope.
High-value certification: PMP (Project Management Professional) or Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) — recognized globally and often preferred for IT leadership roles.
- Team Leadership
Lead with emotional intelligence, handle conflicts, mentor junior staff, and build an environment of trust and innovation.
Why does it matter?
A great IT Manager inspires performance, not just processes.
Certifications to Prioritize
| Type | Certification | Importance |
| Leadership | PMP, ITIL 4, Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) | Validate ability to lead teams and manage complex IT projects. |
| Technical | CISSP, CCNP, AWS/Azure certifications | Validate the ability to lead teams and manage complex IT projects. |
| Hybrid Roles | CompTIA Project+, TOGAF (enterprise architecture) | Bridge technological knowledge with strategy & architecture. |
Career Path & Salary Progression
The journey from Network Admin to IT Manager is a structured climb. Depending on experience and skills, one often progresses through roles like senior network admin, IT supervisor, and eventually director of IT.
Salary Benchmarks in 2025 (U.S.):
- Network Administrator: $70,000–$90,000
- IT Manager: $120,000–$160,000
- Director of IT: $150,000–$220,000+
As you move up the ladder, you will be assigned tasks like team leadership, strategic decision-making, and executive-level planning.
Top Industries Hiring IT Managers:
- Healthcare (HIPAA compliance, digital records)
- Finance (cybersecurity, digital infrastructure)
- Technology (cloud, AI, automation)
- Government (public infrastructure, data protection)
- Education (e-learning platforms, data systems)
The demand for skilled IT Managers is growing even when people fear that it is the era where IT will fade. Ultimately, the segment has turned into a more lucrative and future-proof career move.
Step-by-Step Roadmap to Become an IT Manager
1. Self-Assessment & Gap Analysis
Evaluating your current skills using tools like Skillsoft’s IT Skills Dashboard to spot gaps easily. Only then will you be able to create an outline for the next steps.
2. Upskilling Strategies
Enhance your technical knowledge in cloud migration, cybersecurity, and automation, while building leadership ability through platforms like Coursera (e.g., Google’s IT Leadership Certificate).
Focus on the following certifications: PMP for project management and CISSP for IT security leadership, both highly respected in the industry.
3. Gain Leadership Experience
Start small by leading network upgrade projects, mentoring junior staff, and joining cross-functional teams (e.g., DevOps or compliance audits) to build real-world leadership experience.
4. Build a Manager-Ready Resume
Craft a results-driven resume highlighting leadership wins like “led a team to reduce network downtime by 30%.”
Use strategic keywords to enrich the resume for higher chances of selection. Also, include a portfolio showcasing network and project summaries.
5. Network & Apply Strategically
Join professional communities like LinkedIn’s IT Manager Network, ISACA, and Toastmasters to improve visibility and communication skills.
Target applications to companies known for strong IT cultures, such as Microsoft, IBM, Deloitte, and sectors like healthcare, fintech, and government.
FAQs
- Do I need a degree to become an IT Manager?
Not always — experience and certs can compensate.
- How long does the transition take?
Around 3–5 years with the right steps.
- Which certification has the highest ROI?
PMP and CISSP lead the pack.
- How do I prepare for IT Manager interviews?
Showcase leadership, strategy, and tech expertise.
- Are remote IT Manager roles available?
Yes, especially in cloud-driven companies.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Moving from Network Admin to IT Manager isn’t just about upskilling—it’s about having the right support system in place. That’s where Beem Pass comes in.
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