Global IT Director in High Wycombe

Company Description

Instron is a global organization that designs, manufactures, sells and services mechanical testing systems. Our systems are trusted by 95% of the world’s largest manufacturing companies to gather critical data, informing the design of components and materials. You will find that our established strength, commitment to our core values and team focus provides an engaging work environment and offers exceptional opportunities for personal and career development.

Position Summary

Instron seeks a Global Head of IT to lead technology strategy, delivery, and modernization across operations worldwide. This role ensures that business applications, data, cybersecurity, and infrastructure effectively support commercial, manufacturing, service, and administrative functions. This role partners with Instron and ITW corporate teams to align technology with global business strategy to ensure technology enables growth through innovation and efficient execution.

Strategic Technology Leadership

• Develop and execute global IT strategy aligned with Instron and ITW priorities.
• Serve as senior IT advisor and contribute to long‑term planning.
• Maintain a technology roadmap focused on performance, simplification, and cost efficiency.

Enterprise Applications & Business Systems

• Oversee global applications (ERP, CRM, CPQ, PLM, FSM, finance/reporting).
• Ensure processes follow 80/20 principles and support business effectiveness.
• Manage application lifecycle, integrations, upgrades, and vendor relationships.

IT Operations & Global Support

• Lead a global IT team supporting all manufacturing, service, and office locations.
• Ensure strong IT service delivery with SLAs, issue resolution, and user satisfaction.
• Oversee networks, cloud environments, end‑user computing, and communications platforms.

Cybersecurity & Risk Management

• Own cybersecurity strategy in partnership with ITW Enterprise Security.
• Protect systems, data, and IP through strong controls and compliance.
• Maintain disaster recovery and business continuity capabilities.

AI Enablement & Innovation

• Identify practical AI and automation opportunities to improve productivity and insights.
• Introduce governed, safe generative AI tools that deliver measurable business value.

Project & Portfolio Management

• Oversee global IT project portfolio and resource allocation.
• Promote consistent project methodology and change management.

Financial Stewardship

• Manage global IT operating and capital budgets.
• Optimize resource allocation and negotiate cost‑effective contracts.

Team Leadership & Vendor Management

• Build and develop a high‑performing global IT organization.
• Manage external partners, MSPs, integrators, and SaaS vendors.
• Foster a collaborative, service‑oriented culture aligned with ITW values.

Qualifications

• University degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (master’s level preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive IT leadership; global or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Strong background in ERP/CRM, cloud, cybersecurity, and enterprise infrastructure.
• Prior leadership in multi‑country organizations strongly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong business acumen and ability to translate technology into business value.
• Deep understanding of enterprise applications and process optimization.
• Expertise in cybersecurity, IT operations, cloud, and data governance.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
• Experience with the ITW Business Model and 80/20 principles is a plus.

Key Attributes for Success at Instron

• Strategic and hands‑on leadership style.
• Customer‑focused and aligned with global operational needs.
• Driven to simplify and reduce complexity.
• Highly collaborative and transparent.
• Reliable, steady leadership through change and growth.

Compensation

This position has a starting salary range of $170,000 to $210,000 USD per year. Pay is determined by several factors, including a candidate’s experience, relevant skills, and qualifications.

Equal Employment Opportunity

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.