Head of IT & Data Management

Head of IT & Data Management About

My client is a leading provider within the world foods and FMCG sector, uniting well-known brands and embracing rich culinary traditions. The business is undergoing an ambitious journey to modernise, digitise, and scale its operations, placing technology, data, automation, and digital transformation at the centre of its strategy.

This is a rare opportunity to influence and shape the technology and data landscape of a highly dynamic and fast growing group. As the organisation enters a period of accelerated growth and operational modernisation, this role will be instrumental in building the digital and automated foundations required for scalability, efficiency, and deeper insight.

Role Overview

They are seeking a strategic and hands on Head of IT & Data Management to lead the next phase of growth and transformation across IT, data, and automation.

This pivotal role will define and deliver the overall technology and data strategy, ensuring operational excellence, modern infrastructure, and data driven decision making throughout the business.

You will oversee IT operations across multiple UK manufacturing and distribution sites, working with a capable internal IT team and a network of third party partners to deliver stable, secure, and scalable systems.

A key responsibility will be leading the adoption and optimisation of SAP S/4HANA Public Cloud, accelerating automation initiatives, and enabling integrated digital processes across all business functions.

This is a hands on leadership role combining strategy with execution-driving modernisation, shaping architecture, and enabling the organisation through effective use of technology and data.

Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership

• Refine and deliver an integrated IT & Data strategy aligned with business priorities.
• Develop a multi year roadmap balancing modernisation, innovation, resilience, and cost effectiveness.
• Advise the executive team to ensure technology, data, and automation investments deliver measurable value.
• Act as an ambassador for digital ways of working, building confidence and engagement across the organisation.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee day to day IT operations, working with internal teams and external partners.
• Deliver efficiency gains through automation, system integration, and simplification.
• Lead deployment of RPA, workflow automation, and low code platforms to eliminate manual processes.
• Manage IT budgets, vendor relationships, and contracts.
• Mitigate risks related to IT services and cybersecurity.
• Establish KPIs, dashboards, and performance metrics.

Digital Enablement

• Drive adoption and continuous improvement of SAP S/4HANA Public Cloud.
• Lead digital initiatives that streamline operations and create commercial value.
• Partner with functional teams (Supply Chain, Finance, Commercial, HR) to embed automation, analytics, and digital tools.
• Ensure IT supports productivity and cost efficiency across the business.
• Foster a test and learn culture for scalable digital innovation.

Governance & Risk

• Own the organisation's cybersecurity, data protection, and compliance posture.
• Implement governance, risk management, and continuity frameworks.
• Maintain proactive monitoring, regular audits, and effective incident response.
• Promote security awareness across the business.

Data Management & AI

• Define and lead a pragmatic, business focused data and AI strategy.
• Drive AI adoption to enhance customer value and productivity.
• Establish data governance, architecture, and stewardship standards.
• Use automation and machine learning to improve data quality and reporting.
• Partner with Finance and Commercial teams to embed analytics and insights into decision making.
• Ensure responsible and compliant use of data and intelligent automation.

Team Leadership

• Lead and develop a small, high performing IT & Data team.
• Manage third party IT and managed service providers.
• Coach and build capability across the function.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, agility, and automation first thinking.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven success in a senior IT or data leadership role, with an FMCG.
• Experience leading IT modernisation, digital transformation, and automation in multi site environments.
• Understanding of SAP S/4HANA Public Cloud, cloud technologies (Azure), and modern data/automation platforms (e.g., Power Automate, UiPath, Blue Prism).
• Demonstrated ability to deliver measurable business outcomes through technology, data, and automation.
• Experience managing internal teams and multiple third party providers.
• Strong strategic thinking combined with hands on technical depth.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.