I cannot speak to the IT industry but I was successful in doing exactly that. Found a job, got a work permit based on the job, now a citizen.
It is very hard to do, but not impossible. The best advice I can offer you is to try to find a list of potential employers, and call them directly. Speak to the HR manager or department, and ask. I found a fair number of companies were hesitant because there have been issues with foreign employees who made promises they could not keep. However. Make sure that you understand the process that you will have to follow to succeed (including successfully land in Canada). What is your strategy. Be humble and ask nicely. Follow up regularly once you have been given an opportunity to send a resume.
Expect that you will have to land in a place that no canadian wants to live (unless you already have your PR status). Find companies that have locations like that. Small towns in remote and cold places.
I was able to interview using skype, however expect that you will have to travel for physical interviews.
If you are able to succeed, expect it to take time. It took me 3 + months of work to finally get an offer, plus another 6 months to finally get the permit to work in Canada.
Good luck. It is not simple but worth it if you can make it work