Director of Innovation & IT

Position Overview:

The Director of Innovation & IT will be responsible for leading the hotel's technological transformation and guiding the innovation strategy. This role will focus on leveraging emerging technology to enhance guest experiences (both internal and external), streamline hotel operations, and drive business growth. The Director will oversee the Information Systems (IS) department, ensuring the optimal performance of all IT-related operations while driving innovative initiatives to maintain the hotel’s competitive edge as a 5-star property. Additionally, the Director will spearhead the development of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) products with the goal of taking these innovations to market. This role is ideal for someone with an entrepreneurial mindset who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and is eager to drive new business opportunities through technological innovation. Close collaboration with the General Manager and department heads will be key to positioning the hotel as a leader in the smart hospitality space.

Key Responsibilities:

Information Systems Management:

• Oversee the daily operations of the IS department, including networks, hardware, software, and IT support.
• Ensure the security and integrity of the hotel's data and IT infrastructure through comprehensive cybersecurity measures.
• Maintain and upgrade the Property Management System (PMS) and other operational systems (e.g., CRM, F&B, and housekeeping management).
• Establish and manage IT policies, procedures, and best practices, ensuring compliance with data privacy and security regulations.
• Coordinate with external vendors to guarantee high-quality service and the seamless integration of new technologies.

Productivity & Innovation:

• Drive the hotel’s innovation agenda by identifying and implementing new technologies that enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency, such as digital check-ins, smart rooms, and guest mobile apps.
• Fully in charge of IT-related productivity solutions, including identifying potential funding assistance schemes and liaising with government groups to maximize funding and facilitate reimbursement.
• Lead hotel-wide digital transformation projects, such as contactless services, energy management systems, and tech-driven sustainability initiatives.
• Collaborate with department heads to assess technological needs and develop tailored solutions.
• Spearhead the development of SaaS products that solve hospitality industry challenges, and work toward taking these products to market.

Strategic Planning & Project Management:

• Develop and execute a long-term IT and innovation strategy aligned with the hotel's business goals.
• Manage budgets for technology investments, ensuring the cost-effective deployment of new systems and solutions.
• Ensure compliance with international standards and legal regulations, such as GDPR and PCI DSS.
• Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of IT projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and aligned with the hotel's objectives.

Team Leadership:

• Lead, mentor, and grow the IS team, fostering a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and excellence.
• Support and guide the IT team during preventive and corrective maintenance, including after-hours upgrades as needed.
• Establish proper inventory management and ensure maintenance of all IT-related equipment, software licenses, and contracts.

Sustainability & Green Technology:

• Introduce eco-friendly IT solutions that support the hotel’s sustainability goals, such as energy management systems and paperless processes.
• Partner with relevant stakeholders to pursue green certifications (e.g., GSTC certification), ensuring that technology aids in achieving sustainability objectives.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field (MBA is a plus).
• 7+ years of experience in IT leadership roles, preferably within the hospitality industry.
• Strong technical knowledge of property management systems, CRM platforms, network architecture, and cybersecurity.
• Proven track record of leading and executing digital transformation initiatives that enhance guest experience and operational efficiency.
• Experience in building and launching SaaS products is highly desirable.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to identify and capitalize on new business opportunities through technology.
• Familiarity with sustainability-related technology solutions and compliance with cybersecurity protocols and data privacy regulations.
• Exceptional project management skills with the ability to lead multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget constraints.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with senior management, team members, and external partners.
• Strong problem-solving skills, proactive mindset, and meticulous attention to detail.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with cloud-based solutions and advanced cybersecurity measures.
• Hands-on experience with AI, automation, IoT, or robotics in operational contexts.
• Knowledge of government grants (e.g., STB) and initiatives for tech development in the hospitality sector.