Vice President of Information Technology

The Vice President of IT is a senior executive who is responsible for the strategic direction, implementation, and management of all technology systems across the restaurant group. This includes systems like point-of-sale (POS), network architecture, business intelligence, and guest-facing technology. This leader will drive innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure the security and reliability of the IT infrastructure. The ideal candidate is a visionary with a deep understanding of restaurant operations, a strong technical background, and exceptional leadership skills.

Essential Job Functions:

1. Strategic Planning & Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive IT strategy that aligns with the company's business goals and growth plans.
• Lead and mentor the IT department, fostering a culture of high performance, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Act as a key strategic partner to the executive team, providing insights on technology trends and opportunities to drive business value.

1. System Management & Operations

• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of all enterprise technology, including POS systems, back-office software, and corporate IT infrastructure.
• Ensure the security, reliability, and scalability of all network systems and data.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts for hardware, software, and IT services.

1. Innovation & Business Intelligence

• Identify and implement new technologies to enhance the guest experience, improve operational efficiency, and support business growth.
• Lead the development of a robust business intelligence platform, providing actionable insights from data on sales, labor, and guest behavior.
• Drive digital transformation initiatives, such as online ordering, loyalty programs, and mobile apps.

1. Security & Compliance

• Establish and enforce a strong cybersecurity posture to protect company data and systems from threats.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant data privacy regulations, such as PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard).
• Develop and manage a disaster recovery and business continuity plan.

Responsibilities:

The responsibilities of the Vice President of IT include overseeing all technology systems, driving innovation, and ensuring the security and reliability of the IT infrastructure. They will also develop and execute a comprehensive IT strategy that aligns with the company's business goals and growth plans.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Education & Experience: A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is required, and a Master's degree is a plus. A minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in IT is required, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within the restaurant, retail, or hospitality industry.
• Job Specifications: A deep understanding of restaurant technology stacks, including various POS systems, kitchen display systems (KDS), and reservation platforms is needed. You must have a proven track record of leading major IT projects from conception to completion. Strong knowledge of cybersecurity principles, network architecture, and cloud computing is also required. The role also calls for exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to manage complex budgets and a diverse team.

Physical Demands:

• Primarily office-based with extensive travel to restaurant locations.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities.
• Occasionally required to lift and carry materials for meetings or events.

Work Environment:

The work environment is a dynamic and collaborative one where your contributions are highly valued. The role is a pivotal leadership position with a direct impact on the company's success and future.

Disclaimer:

The job description is designed to outline the essential functions, responsibilities, and qualifications of the role. It is not an exhaustive list of duties and may evolve based on business needs.