LHH is seeking a Leader of Technology with experience in modern retail display technology. This is a full-time, direct hire position with a hybrid work-site location.
The Global Technology Leader will define and implement the technological vision for the company, ensuring that technology initiatives align with the core business in display and fixture development and production. This role demands a strategic leader with a passion for technology, a deep understanding of industry trends, and the ability to drive innovation and operational efficiency. The focus will be on retail-specific technology solutions, including customer-facing and in-store digital experiences, while supporting the mission to merge creative innovation with production capabilities.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field; Master’s degree or MBA preferred.
- 15+ years of experience in technology leadership roles, preferably in the retail, manufacturing, or technology sectors, with a proven track record of managing global technology operations.
- 10+ years of experience building and leading high-performing teams, with a demonstrated ability to manage cross-functional and geographically dispersed teams.
- 10+ years of proven experience in emerging technologies (such as AI, AR/VR, Unified/Omni Channel Commerce).
- 10+ years of experience with Technology Management, from IT Infrastructure, product development, vendor management, policies/procedures/best practices.
- 10+ years of experience with R&D, focusing on new technologies, trends, and enhanced product offerings.
- 10+ years of managing budgets & financial responsibilities related to Technology, with the ability to adjust strategies to maximize ROI.
- Extensive experience in strategic planning, execution, and delivering technology solutions that drive business growth, particularly within retail environments.
- Strong background in electronic solutions, including design, manufacturing, sourcing, and connectivity requirements for in-store digital experiences.
- Highly desirable: experience working in Microsoft Dynamics 365.
- Highly desirable: experience working with BrightSign, Revel CMS, or similar Digital Display software
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership:
- Develop and implement a global technology strategy that aligns with the company’s business objectives and enhances its market position, particularly in retail technology.
- Provide strategic advice to the executive team on technology trends, disruptions, and opportunities, with an emphasis on retail media, AI, AR/VR, unified commerce, and customer-centric solutions.
- Collaborate with other senior leaders to integrate technology solutions that drive business growth, operational excellence, and superior client experiences.
Technology Management:
- Oversee the development, implementation, and maintenance of technology policies, procedures, and best practices.
- Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing technology team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
- Ensure robust IT infrastructure and services to support global operations, in-house production, and product development.
- Drive technology forecasting to anticipate and prepare for emerging retail technology trends.
Innovation and Development:
- Drive the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to create innovative products, services, and processes tailored to retail environments.
- Oversee research and development (R&D) activities to explore and implement new technological solutions, with a focus on digital signage, media players, interactive displays, and software integrations.
- Collaborate with product and design teams to integrate technology seamlessly into the company’s offerings, ensuring alignment with client needs and market demands.
Vendor and Partner Management:
- Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with key technology vendors and industry partners.
- Negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships to secure the best value and service, with a focus on quality assurance and consistency across global operations.
Budget and Financial Management:
- Oversee the technology budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and adherence to financial targets.
- Monitor, analyze, and report on the financial performance of technology initiatives, adjusting strategies as needed to maximize ROI.
Compliance and Risk Management:
- Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards, including data protection and cybersecurity.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate technology-related risks, implementing robust security measures to protect the company and its clients.
