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- Tasks: Lead IT operations and develop a tech strategy for our digital transformation.
- Company: Join LEON, a pioneering brand in naturally fast food that prioritises health and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work options, generous holiday, and a range of health perks.
- Why this job: Shape the future of IT in a dynamic environment while driving innovation and efficiency.
- Qualifications: Experience in tech systems management, especially in hospitality or retail, is essential.
- Other info: Be part of a forward-thinking team with access to extensive learning resources.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 68000 £ per year.
We are seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking IT & Systems Strategy Manager to drive our IT operations and the development of a robust technology strategy that supports our business objectives. This is a newly created and highly autonomous role, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of our IT operations and play a key role in our digital transformation journey. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will oversee the design, implementation and maintenance of our IT infrastructure, ensuring that all technology solutions are seamlessly aligned with organisational goals. Whilst the foundation is to ensure our IT systems are operationally simple and robust, scoping and working with third party suppliers to push the boundaries of hospitality technology will be encouraged.
This position requires a blend of independent thinking, strategic planning and vendor management skills, coupled with a hands-on approach when testing and implementing change or otherwise necessary. The ideal candidate will be curious, with a deep understanding of both current and emerging technologies. They will possess a strong grasp of how data flows across systems and work with our key technology vendors to ensure that the organisation’s IT ecosystem remains secure, efficient and scalable.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Oversee the organisation’s IT infrastructure to ensure scalability, performance, security and cost-effectiveness.
- Align IT budgeting with business goals in partnership with the MD and Finance Manager.
- Ensure robust data security, backup and disaster recovery processes.
- Maintain compliance with GDPR, regulatory standards and internal policies.
- Develop and execute IT strategies and a long-term technology roadmap that supports growth and innovation.
- Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure IT initiatives support wider business objectives.
- Report on IT performance, risks and key projects to senior management.
- Conduct IT risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
- Partner with vendors to maintain business continuity and disaster recovery plans.
- Oversee vendor performance and enforce SLA compliance.
- Lead training initiatives and ensure system updates are communicated effectively.
- Manage customer-facing technologies (POS, online ordering, apps) to ensure seamless functionality.
- Ensure data integrity and streamline data flow across systems.
- Produce performance reports with actionable insights in collaboration with finance.
- Benchmark IT performance against industry standards.
- Drive digital transformation to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.
- Recommend emerging technologies, including AI and automation for business enhancement.
- Manage third-party vendor relationships and support system upgrades and rollouts.
- Optimise IT systems (e.g., EPOS, KDS, apps) for reliability and efficiency.
- Lead infrastructure management, cybersecurity and IT support frameworks.
- Act as the primary technology liaison for franchisees and internal teams.
- Support cross-functional collaboration on system integration and marketing automation.
- Align franchisee tech needs with corporate strategy to support franchising excellence.
Candidate Requirements:
- Proven experience in technology systems management, preferably with a QSR, hospitality or retail background.
- Practical understanding of F&B operations, including stock-taking, ordering and reporting.
- Skilled in evaluating third-party partnerships and managing contracts.
- Strong technical expertise in EPOS and restaurant technology systems.
- Advanced data analysis, reporting and problem-solving capabilities.
- Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
- Excellent communicator with strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills.
Benefits & Rewards:
- A role at the heart of a leading international brand with a dynamic and forward-thinking team.
- As much LEON food as you can eat, plus 60% food discount for your friends & family when you’re not working.
- 33 Days Holiday (including bank holidays).
- 1 Day Work from Home.
- Performance Based Bonus Scheme.
- Bupa Healthcare.
- Company Pension.
- Free Eye Test.
- Casual Dress.
- Employee Life Assurance.
- Smart Health - 24/7 online GP access, health checks and health and wellbeing support.
- Employee Assistance Programme - access to our Wellbeing Centre which offers emotional & practical support including free financial advice.
- Learning & Development - access to our Learning Hub, the most extensive online course library in the world to support you with every step of your career.
At LEON we want to make it easy for everyone to eat and live well. We serve naturally fast food that’s good for you and kind to the planet.
IT & Systems Strategy Manager employer: LEON Restaurants
Contact Detail:
LEON Restaurants Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IT & Systems Strategy Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in IT and systems management, especially within the hospitality sector. Understanding how emerging technologies like AI and automation can enhance business operations will give you an edge during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the hospitality and IT sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about their experiences. This can provide valuable insights and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with vendor management and contract negotiations. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully collaborated with third-party suppliers to improve IT systems in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your problem-solving skills by thinking of real-world scenarios where you improved IT performance or security. Being able to articulate these experiences will demonstrate your hands-on approach and strategic thinking capabilities.
We think you need these skills to ace IT & Systems Strategy Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in IT systems management, particularly in the hospitality or retail sectors. Emphasise your skills in vendor management, strategic planning, and any specific technologies mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your background aligns with LEON's goals, particularly in driving digital transformation and optimising IT systems. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Include a section in your application that outlines your technical expertise, especially in EPOS and restaurant technology systems. Mention any experience you have with data analysis and reporting, as these are crucial for the role.
Highlight Soft Skills: Don't forget to mention your communication and stakeholder engagement skills. The role requires collaboration with senior leadership and vendors, so showcasing your ability to build relationships and manage multiple priorities will strengthen your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at LEON Restaurants
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the IT & Systems Strategy Manager role. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as overseeing IT infrastructure and aligning technology strategies with business goals. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your technical skills, especially in areas like EPOS systems and data analysis. Highlight any relevant experience you have in managing technology systems within the hospitality or retail sectors, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Since this role involves strategic planning, come equipped with examples of how you've developed and executed IT strategies in the past. Discuss how these strategies supported business growth and innovation, showcasing your ability to think critically and strategically.
✨Prepare for Vendor Management Questions
Given the importance of vendor relationships in this role, be ready to discuss your experience in evaluating third-party partnerships and managing contracts. Share specific examples of how you've successfully collaborated with vendors to enhance IT operations.
