Head Of Technology in London

Head of Technology

Travel Industry experience preferred

Competitive Salary

Moorgate – City of London

Kenwood Travel is an award-winning travel business based in central London, with over 40 years of experience. We are a dynamic, innovative and ambitious business looking for a candidate who is passionate about technology. Our Head of Technology will match our ambitions to grow the business and bring innovative ideas to help drive us to the next level. This role is perfect for someone who is looking to embed themselves in a business and be committed to its growth, and their own, over the long term.

Roles & Responsibilities

Leadership and Management:

· Reports directly into the CEO and oversees a team of 8 (IT Operations Manager, Bookings Systems Manager and 6 contract loaders).

· Forms part of the senior leadership team and is responsible for managing all aspects of systems, applications, and integrations critical for business operations and performance.

· Contributes to the development and execution of the business's growth strategy through continuous innovation and the pursuit of excellence in systems and technology.

Systems Management:

· Oversees all business systems, including our bespoke quoting system and CMS, our booking system and third-party integrations and the technical performance of our website.

· Ensures effective and timely operation of systems to ensure business continuity.

· Works alongside the IT Operations Manager and the Head of Growth and Strategy to coordinate and implement our CRM solution.

Innovation:

· Stays at the forefront of developments both within and without the travel sector and presents evidence backed proposals to senior leadership that build competitive advantage.

· Seeks to push the boundaries in what is capable for our travel offering.

· Ensure close collaboration with the IT Operations Manager to continuously innovate and enhance backend processes, systems, and tools, driving operational excellence and supporting the company's growth strategy.

Supplier Management:

· Third party supplier management including scoping, coordination, project management and budgets regarding the booking system, partner integrations and third-party systems.

Project Management

· Internal project management of all systems related projects to ensure the timely delivery within agreed specifications and budget.

· Provides weekly project RAG status reports to senior leadership.

Strategic Collaboration:

· Liaise with senior stakeholders, including the IT Operations Manager, Commercial Director and Head of Growth and Strategy, to identify opportunities for innovation and align technology initiatives with business objectives.

· Works closely with the Head of Growth and Strategy to obtain a best-in-class customer facing website in terms of both customer experience and technical performance.

Team Development:

· Supports and trains team members to enhance overall IT capability and ensure alignment with business goals.

Required Skills & Experience:

· Proven experience in a senior role within technology, preferably in the travel industry.

· 5 years experience in building and managing complex software systems and integrations with third party systems.

· In-depth knowledge of IT systems, applications, and integrations.

· Ambitious and passionate about exploring the "art of the possible" through technology in the realm of travel.

· Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering projects on time and within budget.

· A strong team player with excellent soft skills in the fields of emotional intelligence, communication and stakeholder management.

· Ability to think strategically and drive innovation to support business growth.

· Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field; advanced degree preferred.

Benefits/Perks:

· Option to join Company Private Health Scheme.

· Entry into Company Pension Scheme.

· Discounted travel for you and your family.

· Annual Xmas party abroad for up to 20 staff members.

· Opportunity for free travel on Fam trips.

Additional Information:

This is a full-time, hybrid position with 2 days in our central London office each week.

Salary and benefits package will be commensurate with your growth within the business.