Head of Innovation & Technology

About the Role

The Head of Innovation & Technology will operate within the New Business, Innovation & Sustainability department, overseeing IT delivery, infrastructure, and system solutions while catalyzing innovation at Derrycourt. The position involves nurturing a creative atmosphere, pinpointing new growth opportunities, crafting and deploying innovation strategies, managing projects, and collaborating cross-functionally to materialize fresh concepts.

Focus areas include integrating and automating technology solutions alongside developing innovative products and services for internal and client use. This role requires a strategic orientation in innovation growth, IT management, and project leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute innovation strategies that align with organizational objectives.
• Scan and analyze emerging tech trends and industry developments.
• Oversee the innovation pipeline from ideation through to practical rollout.
• Promote an environment dedicated to innovation and ongoing enhancement.
• Recognize chances for digital transformation, automation, and process improvements.
• Lead innovation projects including pilot and proof-of-concept efforts.
• Implement AI capabilities and solutions within the organization.
• Partner with internal teams to encourage acceptance and use of new ideas.
• Track and evaluate the outcomes and progress of innovation activities.
• Manage risks tied to new technology implementations.
• Coordinate the entire project lifecycle, ensuring adherence to schedules, budgets, and milestones.
• Collaborate with internal units and external partners effectively.
• Maintain compliance with safety, environmental, and sector-specific standards.
• Prepare regular status updates and reports for senior leadership.
• Manage project documentation, governance, and performance metrics.
• Contribute to formulating and enacting the company’s IT strategy.
• Lead and guide IT support and business analyst teams.
• Prioritize and roll out innovative IT systems and process upgrades.
• Evaluate existing technologies and suggest improvements with cost-efficiency in mind.
• Develop and enforce IT policies, procedures, and governance practices.
• Generate performance measurement tools and reporting frameworks.
• Administer IT budgets, including capital expenditures and reporting.
• Support effective integration of IT systems with business functions.
• Drive change management in new technology adoption initiatives.
• Ensure data security, business continuity, and disaster recovery plans are robust.
• Identify and implement infrastructure upgrades and enhancements.

Requirements

• A minimum of 3 to 5 years’ experience in project management roles.
• At least 3 to 5 years working in IT operations or a related area.
• A degree in IT, Business, Innovation Management, or a similar field.
• Proficient with Microsoft Windows systems, service desk procedures, and network administration.
• Prior experience managing innovation and delivering projects.
• Familiarity with CRM platforms and analytic tools like Power BI.
• Well-versed in GDPR and relevant data protection regulations.
• Strong leadership qualities and ability to manage teams effectively.
• Exceptional skills in project planning, organization, and communication.
• Analytical mindset capable of solving complex problems strategically.
• The capacity to link technology initiatives with business outcomes.
• Ability to influence and work collaboratively across multiple organizational levels.
• Experience managing multifaceted technology projects spanning various platforms.
• Knowledge of cloud computing, IT infrastructure, AI technology, databases, and information security.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.
• Eligibility to join group life insurance scheme post-probation.
• Income protection coverage.
• Participation in the Bike to Work initiative.
• Access to tax saver travel programs.
• Additional annual leave granted based on service length.
• Membership in a company savings scheme.
• Availability of on-site parking facilities.