Head of IT

Job Description

Based in Dublin, Ireland our client is looking for an experienced IT manager to join their team as Head of IT on a permanent basis. Some travel would be required between locations in Ireland and internationally as needed.

This position would suit someone with at least 7 years of experience in IT management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership position, ideally within hospitality or similar industry. They will be responsible for leading and managing the technology infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives across the group.

The role involves overseeing the implementation of new systems, optimising current IT functions, and managing a team of IT professionals across multiple hotel locations in Ireland.

This company are a leading lifestyle hotel group offering a dynamic collection of boutique hotels with modern amenities, they are embarking on a growth journey which will see them increase their portfolio across the world.

The successful individual will have strong knowledge of network architecture, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, and systems integration, especially in multi-site environments. Proficiency with hotel management software (PMS, POS, CRM systems) and digital transformation technologies is required for this role. This individual will have excellent project management skills with a proven track record of leading large-scale IT projects, including system upgrades, migrations, and digital transformation initiatives. Strong understanding of data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR) and experience implementing robust cybersecurity protocols is a must. This person will have excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and senior management.

Duties include:

• Develop and execute an IT strategy that aligns with the hotel group's overall business objectives, ensuring the adoption of innovative technologies and best practices.
• Work closely with the executive team to identify business challenges that can be addressed through IT solutions, proposing technology projects that drive revenue and enhance guest experience.
• Drive the digital transformation agenda, integrating IT into all areas of operations.
• Oversee the design, implementation, and management of the group's IT network, ensuring seamless connectivity across all hotel locations.
• Primary contact for third party network support provider.
• Ensure the availability and performance of critical systems, including Wi-Fi networks, guest-facing technologies, and back-office operations.
• Manage installation and day to day functions of primary operational systems, including:
• PMS (Opera Cloud, Opera v5)
• Physical & Digital Key Systems (Flexipass & Salto)
• F&B & Ticketing POS (Micros Simphony, Admit One)
• F&B Reservations (Open Table)
• Spa & Gym Reservations, Scheduling & POS (Premier Core/One Journey, bSport)
• Procurement (Procure Wizard)
• HACCP & Property Maintenance Software (Alkimii, KitchTech)
• Gift Cards (Crave Card)
• Implement and manage disaster recovery plans to mitigate risks of IT system failures.
• Lead the design and implementation of a robust cybersecurity strategy, ensuring all digital systems are protected against internal and external threats.
• Monitor and respond to security incidents and breaches, ensuring that protocols are in place for rapid detection and resolution.
• Regularly conduct security audits and vulnerability assessments, addressing any potential risks or areas of non-compliance.
• Manage the integration of different software systems across the hotel group, ensuring seamless communication and interoperability between the finance, reservations, front desk, and marketing department.
• Lead initiatives to upgrade or replace legacy systems with modern, cloud-based solutions that enhance productivity and operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with department heads to automate routine processes and introduce self-service technologies, such as mobile check-ins, online reservations, and smart room controls.
• Implement robust IT support processes, including the creation of helpdesk protocols, troubleshooting guides, and service level agreements (SLAs).
• Work closely with third-party support vendors.
• Review current vendors and suppliers, their scope of work and the fit into the Groups strategy, run RFPs to identify new suppliers and negotiate agreements.
• Develop and manage relationships with key IT vendors, suppliers, and technology partners.
• Negotiate contracts with service providers, ensuring that the group achieves value for money.
• Overseeing the development of the Gift Card function for the business.

For more information about this role or any other Head of IT jobs in Dublin, Ireland please contact us in confidence or visit our website www.mrkassociates.co.uk.

Every application will receive a response as this is the recognised working practice at MRK Associates.

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