The Role: To provide strategic leadership and governance of all information technology functions across the Group, ensuring scalable, secure and efficient IT system that support Head Office, Distribution Centre, restaurant stores and multi-brand expansion. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: IT Strategy & Digital Transformation: Develop and execute IT strategy aligned to group growth Enable scalable solutions for new store rollouts and brand expansion Drive digital innovation (ordering platforms, automation, analytics) Retail & Store Technology Enablement: Ensure reliability and performance of POS, payments and store systems Standardize technology across all restaurant locations Support franchise and multi-brand operational models Supply Chain & Distribution Systems: Oversee IT systems supporting warehouse and logistics operations Ensure integration between suppliers, DC and stores Improve inventory accuracy and supply chain efficiency Cybersecurity, Risk & Compliance: Implement cybersecurity frameworks and risk mitigation strategies Ensure compliance with data protection and payment regulations (PCI-DSS) Maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans IT Operations & Service Delivery: Ensure high system availability and service delivery across all sites Oversee IT support structures (helpdesk and field services) Maintain service levels and operational continuity Data, Analytics & Customer Experience: Enable data-driven decision-making across the business Oversee reporting, BI tools and customer engagement platforms Support digital customer experience initiatives Financial Management & Cost Control: Develop and manage IT budgets Optimize technology costs and vendor spend Ensure return on investment for IT initiatives Leadership & Stakeholder Management: Lead and develop IT teams across all business units Engage with executive leadership and operational stakeholders Support integration of new brands and business units SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Real-time Problem Solving: Ability to immediately diagnose tech-related bottlenecks in ordering or delivery, particularly during peak hours Strategic Planning: Balancing cost control with technology investments that improve long‑term competitiveness Risk Management: Evaluating the security risks of third‑party delivery apps versus building proprietary platforms Prioritization: Prioritizing system functionality and user experience to improve both operating costs and customer satisfaction Innovation: AI and Automation: Deploy AI‑powered, voice‑enabled drive‑thrus and robotic kitchen equipment to reduce labour costs, increase accuracy, and speed up service times. Digital Ordering Ecosystems: Integrate mobile apps, kiosks, and third‑party delivery platforms into a single, seamless channel that links directly to the KDS, reducing human error and boosting order accuracy. Data‑Driven Operations: Utilize advanced analytics to predict customer demand, optimize inventory management, and adjust staffing in real‑time, reducing waste and improving profitability. Customer Personalization: Implement personalized loyalty programs and digital menu boards that update in real‑time to increase upsells, social media interaction, and return visits. Robust IT Infrastructure: Ensure high‑speed connectivity and security to support contactless payments, cloud computing, and cybersecurity measures to protect customer data. Sustainability Technologies: Adopt digital inventory tracking to minimize food waste and invest in eco‑friendly, automated equipment to meet sustainability goals QUALIFICATION REQUIRED: Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology / Computer Science MBA or Postgraduate qualification (preferred) ITIL / COBIT Cloud certifications (AWS / Azure) Cybersecurity certifications (CISSP, CISM) Project Management (PMP / PRINCE2) EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: 10-15 years’ IT experience Minimum 5-7 years in senior/executive IT leadership Proven experience in multi‑site retail, QSR, or franchise environments Demonstrated success in digital transformation and IT strategy execution #J-18808-Ljbffr