Head of Technology

Role Overview

This is a senior leadership position responsible for shaping and driving the entire technology function of a multi-channel business operating across retail, wholesale, warehousing, supply chain, and foodservice sectors. You will set the strategic direction for IT infrastructure, data, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation, while ensuring that every technology investment directly supports business growth, operational efficiency, customer experience, and security. Day to day, you will work closely with functional leaders to identify practical technology solutions, oversee major system implementations, manage budgets and vendors, and lead a team of technology professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive technology roadmap that aligns with the company's strategic objectives and growth plans, covering infrastructure, applications, data, AI, and automation.
• Lead the design, implementation, and scaling of IT infrastructure including servers, networks, cloud platforms, software, telephony, and end-user computing, ensuring stability, security, and availability.
• Oversee the integration and effective operation of core business systems such as ERP, POS, CRM, e-commerce platforms, and other digital tools, ensuring data flows seamlessly across functions.
• Drive AI and automation initiatives across retail, wholesale, warehousing, supply chain, HORECA, and business enablement, focusing on predictive analytics, machine learning, demand forecasting, inventory optimisation, and customer analytics.
• Establish robust data governance, data quality, reporting, and business intelligence standards so that management consistently receives accurate, actionable insights.
• Lead digital transformation and omnichannel projects that create a unified customer experience across online and physical channels.
• Manage the technology budget, including procurement, licensing, support contracts, and project costs, while negotiating with suppliers and consultants to maximise value and service levels.
• Build, mentor, and develop the technology team, defining departmental KPIs and promoting a culture of innovation, automation, and data-driven decision-making.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field; an MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification is highly desirable.
• At least 10 years of progressive experience in technology leadership, with a proven track record of managing enterprise-level IT, data, and digital transformation agendas.
• Deep experience overseeing ERP, POS, CRM, and e-commerce systems in a retail, distribution, or wholesale environment.
• Strong knowledge of AI, machine learning, automation, predictive analytics, and business intelligence tools, with the ability to translate these into practical business outcomes.
• Solid understanding of IT infrastructure, cloud services, cybersecurity, data protection, and disaster recovery best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex technology projects from initiation to delivery, including system implementations, integrations, upgrades, and migrations, within agreed timelines and budgets.
• Experience developing and managing departmental budgets, negotiating vendor contracts, and enforcing IT policies and governance frameworks.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to engage business leaders and translate technical concepts into clear business value.
• Strong people leadership experience, including recruiting, coaching, performance management, and building high-performing technology teams.