IT Executive (QSR) - KZN

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

The Role:

To provide strategic leadership and governance of all information technology functions across the Group, ensuring scalable, secure and efficient IT system that support Head Office, Distribution Centre, restaurant stores and multi-brand expansion.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

IT Strategy & Digital Transformation:

• Develop and execute IT strategy aligned to group growth
• Enable scalable solutions for new store rollouts and brand expansion
• Drive digital innovation (ordering platforms, automation, analytics)

Retail & Store Technology Enablement:

• Ensure reliability and performance of POS, payments and store systems
• Standardize technology across all restaurant locations
• Support franchise and multi-brand operational models

Supply Chain & Distribution Systems:

• Oversee IT systems supporting warehouse and logistics operations
• Ensure integration between suppliers, DC and stores
• Improve inventory accuracy and supply chain efficiency

Cybersecurity, Risk & Compliance:

• Implement cybersecurity frameworks and risk mitigation strategies
• Ensure compliance with data protection and payment regulations (PCI-DSS)
• Maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans

IT Operations & Service Delivery:

• Ensure high system availability and service delivery across all sites
• Oversee IT support structures (helpdesk and field services)
• Maintain service levels and operational continuity

Data, Analytics & Customer Experience:

• Enable data-driven decision-making across the business
• Oversee reporting, BI tools and customer engagement platforms
• Support digital customer experience initiatives

Financial Management & Cost Control:

• Develop and manage IT budgets
• Optimize technology costs and vendor spend
• Ensure return on investment for IT initiatives

Leadership & Stakeholder Management:

• Lead and develop IT teams across all business units
• Engage with executive leadership and operational stakeholders
• Support integration of new brands and business units

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Real-time Problem Solving: Ability to immediately diagnose tech-related bottlenecks in ordering or delivery, particularly during peak hours
• Strategic Planning: Balancing cost control with technology investments that improve long-term competitiveness
• Risk Management: Evaluating the security risks of third-party delivery apps versus building proprietary platforms
• Prioritization: Prioritizing system functionality and user experience to improve both operating costs and customer satisfaction
• Innovation:
  • AI and Automation: Deploy AI-powered, voice-enabled drive-thrus and robotic kitchen equipment to reduce labour costs, increase accuracy, and speed up service times.
  • Digital Ordering Ecosystems: Integrate mobile apps, kiosks, and third-party delivery platforms into a single, seamless channel that links directly to the KDS, reducing human error and boosting order accuracy.
  • Data-Driven Operations: Utilize advanced analytics to predict customer demand, optimize inventory management, and adjust staffing in real-time, reducing waste and improving profitability.
  • Customer Personalization: Implement personalized loyalty programs and digital menu boards that update in real-time to increase upsells, social media interaction, and return visits.
  • Robust IT Infrastructure: Ensure high-speed connectivity and security to support contactless payments, cloud computing, and cybersecurity measures to protect customer data.
  • Sustainability Technologies: Adopt digital inventory tracking to minimize food waste and invest in eco-friendly, automated equipment to meet sustainability goals

QUALIFICATION REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology / Computer Science
• MBA or Postgraduate qualification (preferred)
• ITIL / COBIT
• Cloud certifications (AWS / Azure)
• Cybersecurity certifications (CISSP, CISM)
• Project Management (PMP / PRINCE2)

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• 10-15 years’ IT experience
• Minimum 5-7 years in senior/executive IT leadership
• Proven experience in multi-site retail, QSR, or franchise environments
• Demonstrated success in digital transformation and IT strategy execution