Vice President, IT Operations

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Vice President, IT Operations to lead and optimize the technology infrastructure and operations that support our dynamic retail environment. This role is critical in ensuring the seamless operation of our 300+ stores globally and our rapidly expanding e-commerce channels. The Vice President, IT Operations is a key member of the technology leadership team and is viewed as the successor to the current CTO.

Main Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement the IT Operations strategy aligned with the company's overall business goals and growth trajectory;
• Drive innovation and introduce leading-edge technologies to enhance operational efficiency, scalability, and security;
• Collaborate closely with the CTO on technology roadmap planning and execution.

Operational Excellence:

• Oversee the day-to-day IT operations across all stores, distribution centers, and corporate offices, ensuring high availability and performance;
• Manage IT infrastructure, including network infrastructure, cloud services, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and data centers;
• Implement robust monitoring and incident management processes to minimize downtime and ensure business continuity;
• Keep the executive leadership up to date on production-related issues.

Team Management:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of IT professionals;
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement;
• Exhibit our corporate values (Ownership, Customer Centricity, Passion, Curiosity and Empathy) through leadership by example. 

E-commerce Operations:

• Ensure the stability, performance, and security of our e-commerce platforms and supporting systems;
• Optimize website and mobile app performance to enhance customer experience and drive online sales;
• Collaborate with the e-commerce team on new initiatives and technology integrations;
• Support our ‘product driven’ methodology to deliver quarterly value to the business.

Security and Compliance:

• Implement and maintain robust security measures to protect sensitive data and comply with industry regulations;
• Stay abreast of cybersecurity threats and proactively implement mitigation strategies;
• Ensure the department is compliant with internal controls and privacy regulations.

Vendor Management:

• Manage relationships with key technology vendors and service providers;
• Negotiate contracts and ensure optimal service levels.

Budget Management:

• Develop and manage the IT Operations budget;
• Identify cost optimization opportunities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field;
• 10+ years of progressive experience in IT operations management, with at least 5 years in a retail environment;
• Proven experience in managing IT infrastructure for a large-scale, global organization;
• Strong understanding of retail technologies, including POS systems, inventory management systems, and e-commerce platforms;
• Experience with cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and hybrid cloud environments;
• Expertise in network security, data protection, and disaster recovery planning;
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities;
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment;
• Familiarity with data analytics and business intelligence tools;
• Experience with DevOps practices and Agile methodologies.

At GDI, you will be part of a growing organization that understands the importance of investing in people and offers you:

• A comprehensive compensation package that includes performance-driven bonuses;
• A group retirement savings program with employer matching;
• Flexible group insurance with personalized coverage that meets your needs;
• An employee discount at Garage and Dynamite;
• Exclusive private sample sales;
• A flexible vacation policy;
• And more!

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