Group IT Director

JOB OVERVIEW The Group Director of Information Technology is responsible for defining and executing CÉ LA VI's Group IT strategy across all existing and future venues. The role provides strategic leadership for technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, business systems, data governance, digital transformation and IT service delivery, ensuring technology investments support the Group's operational, commercial and growth objectives. The position also oversees major technology initiatives, including new venue openings, system implementations and business transformation projects, while establishing consistent standards and governance across all markets. PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES: FINANCIAL · Develop and manage the annual Group IT budget, ensuring alignment with business priorities and approved investment plans. · Drive cost optimisation through effective management of hardware, software, infrastructure, licences, support services and technology projects. · Evaluate technology investments using business cases, ROI, total cost of ownership and operational impact analysis. · Lead commercial negotiations and contract management with technology vendors to achieve competitive pricing, appropriate service levels and contractual protection. · Ensure robust financial governance, including expenditure monitoring, approvals, contract renewals and compliance with procurement policies. CUSTOMER · Ensure technology solutions support an efficient, secure and elevated guest and employee experience across all venues. · Partner with Operations, Marketing and business leaders to identify and implement technologies that enhance service delivery, guest engagement and business performance. · Establish and maintain effective IT service-management standards, including service levels, support processes and escalation procedures. · Engage regularly with stakeholders to understand business requirements, resolve recurring issues and identify opportunities for improvement. · Minimise operational disruption through proactive monitoring, incident management and business continuity planning INTERNAL PROCESS · Develop and maintain the Group IT strategy, roadmap and governance framework aligned with business objectives and growth plans. · Establish Group-wide standards, policies and controls covering infrastructure, cybersecurity, data protection, access management and technology usage. · Lead the planning and delivery of major technology initiatives, including new venue openings, system implementations, integrations and transformation projects. · Oversee project governance, including scope, budgets, timelines, risks, resources, stakeholder communication and delivery outcomes. · Direct the evaluation, selection, implementation and integration of business-critical technology platforms. · Maintain effective management of IT assets, software licences, contracts and technology risks across the Group. · Establish and oversee vendor management practices, ensuring performance, service levels, security requirements and contractual obligations are achieved. · Ensure robust cybersecurity, data governance, privacy, disaster recovery and business continuity capabilities are maintained across all markets. · Monitor system performance, service delivery and operational risks, ensuring incidents are investigated and resolved appropriately. · Implement reporting, audit and risk-management processes to support informed decision-making and continuous improvement. ORGANISATIONAL CAPACITY · Lead and develop a high-performing Group IT function capable of supporting current operations, future growth and new venue openings. · Establish clear organisational structures, responsibilities, service standards and performance expectations across the IT team. · Build team capability through coaching, succession planning, knowledge sharing and professional development. · Act as a trusted adviser to senior leadership, translating technology issues into commercial risks, opportunities and recommendations. · Foster strong collaboration across functions and markets to support effective decision-making and successful project delivery. · Lead change management, user adoption and training initiatives associated with new technologies and business systems. · Evaluate emerging technologies and industry trends, recommending innovations that create measurable business value. · Promote a culture of service excellence, security awareness, accountability and continuous improvement.