CTO/Head of technology

Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Location: Hybrid – North East UK Delighted to be supporting a market-leading multi-channel retailer with the appointment of a new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). With a significant store presence, they have invested heavily into driving outstanding customer experience across all touchpoints in their business. The CTO will lead the technology strategy, ensuring it aligns with the company’s vision and objectives. The CTO will play a crucial role in shaping and executing the technology vision, leading a team of 45-50 IT and digital professionals, the CTO will ensure that systems are robust, scalable, and aligned with strategic goals. This role demands a collaborative leader who can leverage technology to enhance business efficiency, improve customer experiences, and foster innovation. Technology Strategy: Define and implement the company’s technology strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives. Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with the executive team and departments to meet business needs through technology solutions. Data Strategy: Lead the data strategy to drive business KPIs and provide visibility to the main board. Digital Transformation: Oversee digital transformation initiatives, enhancing online platforms, mobile applications, and customer engagement. Manage the development and maintenance of core IT infrastructure, CRM systems, booking platforms, and data management systems. Cybersecurity: Ensure robust cybersecurity measures and compliance with data protection regulations. Team Leadership: Inspire and manage a team of IT professionals. Vendor Management: Oversee relationships with external vendors and technology partners to ensure high-quality service delivery. Innovation and R&D: Stay abreast of emerging technologies, driving innovation and identifying growth opportunities. Budget Management: Manage the technology budget, ensuring cost-effective investments and resource allocation. Proven experience in a senior technology leadership role within a consumer-facing industry, ideally with multi-site retail experience. Strong understanding of current and emerging technology trends. Experience leading large-scale digital transformation projects. In-depth knowledge of IT infrastructure, software development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Strong leadership and team management skills, with a track record of building and mentoring high-performance teams. Proven ability to manage budgets and deliver technology projects on time and within scope.