Wells & Co - a brewery, a growing managed pub portfolio, a well‑established Pub Partner estate, English pubs in France and 150 years of history.
We are a forward‑thinking, values‑driven hospitality business with a proud heritage and a passion for innovation. As we embark on a major digital transformation, we are seeking an exceptional IT Director to lead our technology strategy and delivery.
Based in Bedford, this pivotal leadership role will shape and execute the IT strategy, manage a talented team, and deliver a portfolio of high‑impact projects. You will play a key part in driving operational excellence, business process improvement, and digital innovation across the group.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, develop, and inspire the IT team, fostering a collaborative and high‑performance culture.
* Oversee the successful delivery of major IT projects, including:
o Upgrading our ERP system to Microsoft Navision Business Central.
o Implementing a loyalty solution across our UK and French managed pubs.
o Rolling out sales and labour forecasting tools across UK and French managed businesses.
o Creating a data lake to enhance Power BI analytics and reporting.
o Exploring and adopting AI solutions to drive business value.
* Ensure robust IT operations, cyber security, and risk management.
* Build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels, communicating complex ideas simply and effectively.
* Champion sustainability and responsible technology use in all IT decisions.
* Manage IT budgets, suppliers (including SaaS), and service delivery to ensure best value and minimal disruption to our pubs and managed houses.
Requirements
* A strategic thinker yet a hands‑on leader, with a record of delivering complex IT projects in a fast‑paced, multi‑site environment (hospitality, retail, or similar sector).
* Experience with Microsoft cloud technologies (Office365, Azure), ERP (Navision/Business Central), data management, and cyber security.
* Strong knowledge of solution architecture, networks (Meraki, UniFi, FortiGate), and SaaS supplier management.
* Proven ability to drive change, innovate, and deliver measurable business improvements through technology.
* Excellent communicator, able to engage and influence at all levels, with resilience, energy, and a collaborative approach.
Relevant degree or equivalent experience, plus certifications such as MCSA/MCSE, CCNA/CCNP, VMware VCP, ITIL.
Other Information
* To £110,000 subject to exp.
* Car allowance.
* 25 days annual leave + b/h.
* Private medical health care.
* Group personal pension plan.
* Life assurance.
* 30% off dining and retail.
Job Details
* Seniority level: Director
* Employment type: Contract
* Job function: Information Technology
* Industries: IT Services and IT Consulting
If you are looking to develop your career within a company led by family values whilst still striving to innovate, invest and progress, this may be the role for you. Apply now to join a business where your ideas and leadership will make a real difference.
#J-18808-Ljbffr