At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and optimise critical systems for our pubs and hotels, ensuring smooth operations.
- Company: Join Chestnut Group, a vibrant hospitality company with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, discounts, team events, and personal growth opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a strong emphasis on teamwork and support.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of technology in hospitality and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT systems management and a passion for problem-solving.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Chestnut is a hospitality group operating a portfolio of pubs and hotels across East Anglia. Behind every site sits a web of business-critical systems — EPOS, kitchen management, booking platforms, finance systems — and this role owns making sure they all run reliably, securely, and in step with where the business is heading.
The Systems & Technology Manager is responsible for the stability, performance, and strategic development of all technology across Chestnut. This role owns the full lifecycle of business-critical systems — from day-to-day support and troubleshooting to the evaluation and rollout of new platforms — ensuring technology consistently enables operational excellence across all sites.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Systems Management & Support
- Own and oversee all core business systems, including EPOS, Kitchen Management Systems (KMS), booking platforms, and finance systems across the group.
- Act as a primary escalation point for system-related queries from all sites, ensuring fast and effective resolution.
- Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, liaising with external suppliers where necessary to minimise operational disruption.
- Maintain continuous review of systems to ensure they remain fit for purpose, fully operational, and aligned with evolving business needs.
- Implementation & Optimisation
- Lead the planning and rollout of new systems, upgrades, and integrations across the group, with minimal disruption to trading.
- Develop and own the group's systems and technology strategy, aligned to the wider business plan.
- Identify and deliver process improvements and efficiency gains through smarter use of technology and automation.
- Maintain comprehensive system documentation, user guides, and standard operating procedures.
- Data & Reporting
- Take ownership of data integrity across all platforms, ensuring information is accurate, consistent, and accessible — raising awareness with relevant teams where it isn't.
- Support MI and reporting functions by ensuring underlying systems data is reliable and structured for analysis.
- Collaborate with finance and operations teams to develop data visibility that supports commercial decision-making.
- Training & Support
- Design and deliver systems training to pub and hotel managers and their teams, covering day-to-day use and best practice.
- Produce clear, accessible training materials and reference guides tailored to operational audiences.
- Support the onboarding of new sites and team members from a systems and technology perspective.
- Compliance & Security
- Ensure all systems comply with applicable data protection legislation, including GDPR.
- Maintain and enforce system security protocols, including user access controls and permissions management.
- Conduct regular reviews to identify and address compliance or security gaps.
- IT Infrastructure & Connectivity
- Ensure all sites have the connectivity, hardware, and operational infrastructure required to trade effectively.
- Conduct regular interval reviews of IT requirements across the estate, proactively addressing gaps or risks.
- Implement and manage cybersecurity policies and protocols in line with business needs and industry best practice.
- Supplier & Vendor Management
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with key technology and systems suppliers.
- Act as the principal liaison between the business and external technology providers.
- Monitor supplier performance against agreed SLAs and manage escalations where service falls short.
- Stay informed on new products, platform updates, and innovations that could add value to the group.
Why Join Us?
At Chestnut, we believe in rewarding our team, supporting personal growth, and creating a work environment that feels like home:
- Team & Individual Incentives — rewards for your hard work, including staff days out and even trips abroad.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) — free, confidential support for wellbeing, finances, and more.
- Team Parties & Social Events — regular events to connect, relax, and celebrate together.
- Work Anniversary Rewards — your commitment celebrated every year.
- Refer a Friend Scheme — earn a cash bonus when a friend you recommend joins us.
- Peter Graham Wine Discounts — exclusive pricing on carefully selected wines.
- Family & Friends Discounts — share special perks with those you care about.
- Team Discounts — up to 50% off your food bill at our venues.
- Overnight Stays from £75 — take a break at any Chestnut property at a reduced rate.
- High Street Discounts — savings on retail, dining, and travel.
- Tips + Wagestream Access — track your earnings in real time and access pay as you earn.
- Flexible Hours — support for a healthy work-life balance.
- Learning & Development — accredited training and continuous development opportunities.
If this sounds like the right next step for you, we'd love to hear from you.
Systems & Technology Manager employer: Le Strange Arms
Le Strange Arms is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work environment where team members can thrive while delivering exceptional service. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and a commitment to employee growth, staff enjoy flexible hours, incentives, and numerous opportunities for learning and development in the heart of the UK hospitality scene.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Systems & Technology Manager
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Le Strange Arms. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Le Strange Arms
Don't be shy about reaching out to Le Strange Arms directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Systems & Technology Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Le Strange Arms and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Le Strange Arms
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
