Manager (Technology)

About Us:

Wine Connection owns and operates the largest chain of wine retail shops and full-service wine-themed restaurants in Thailand and Singapore. We are the exclusive importer of 300+ labels of wines from around the world, craft beers, glassware and related accessories, as well as selected delicatessen products.

Since our inception in 1998, Wine Connection has steadily grown the number of wine retail shops and diversified into the full-service restaurant business by introducing the integrated retail wine shop – restaurant concept, becoming the leader in Asia with over 100 outlets to date, and counting.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

IT Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and execute the company's IT roadmap aligned with business objectives.
• Partner with key stakeholders to identify opportunities for technology-driven improvements and innovation.
• Lead and mentor the IT team, promoting a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Drive digital transformation initiatives across retail, F&B, logistics, and corporate operations.
• Stay updated with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices, and make recommendations for their integration into our IT infrastructure/systems.

Infrastructure & Operations Management

• Oversee daily IT operations and service delivery across all business locations.
• Ensure high availability and performance of networks, servers, cloud services, databases, and business-critical applications.
• Manage endpoint devices, Microsoft technologies, email systems, wireless networks, VPN, firewalls, and security solutions.
• Monitor and maintain IT infrastructure to minimize downtime and operational disruption.

Enterprise Applications & Business Systems

• Manage and support business applications including:
• Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP
• Point-of-Sale (POS) systems
• Inventory and Warehouse Management Systems
• E-commerce and Digital Platforms
• HR and Payroll Systems
• Coordinate system upgrades, integrations, testing, and deployment activities.
• Ensure systems effectively support business processes and operational requirements.

Cybersecurity & Compliance

• Develop and enforce IT policies, standards, and security procedures.
• Implement cybersecurity measures to protect company data, systems, and customer information.
• Manage backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity plans.
• Conduct periodic security reviews, risk assessments, and vulnerability management activities.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory and corporate requirements.

Project Management

• Lead IT projects from planning through implementation and post-launch support.
• Manage system migrations, infrastructure upgrades, software implementations, and business process improvement initiatives.
• Ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and according to business requirements.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external vendors throughout project lifecycles.

Vendor & Budget Management

• Manage relationships with IT vendors, service providers, and technology partners.
• Evaluate and recommend technology solutions and services.
• Negotiate contracts and monitor service-level agreements (SLAs).
• Develop and manage IT budgets while ensuring cost-effective utilization of resources.

User Support & Service Management

• Ensure timely and effective IT support for all users.
• Establish service management standards and performance metrics.
• Provide technical leadership for the resolution of complex system and application issues.
• Drive continuous improvement in user experience and IT service quality.

Business Collaboration

• Work closely with Retail, Operations, Supply Chain, Finance, HR, Marketing, and other departments to understand business requirements.
• Recommend technology solutions that improve efficiency, customer experience, and operational performance.
• Act as a trusted advisor to business stakeholders on technology-related matters.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 8+ years of IT experience, including leadership or management responsibilities.
• Experience supporting multi-site retail, F&B, hospitality, or consumer-facing businesses is highly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of: (1) Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP, (2) Point-of-Sale (POS) systems, (3) Customer Relationship Management (CRM), (4) Microsoft Windows Server and Desktop environments, (5) Microsoft 365 and Exchange/Outlook, (6) SQL Database Administration, (7) Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, (8) LAN/WAN, Wireless Networks, VPN, Firewalls, (9) Cybersecurity technologies and best practices
• Experience in project management and system implementation.
• Strong vendor management and budgeting experience.
• Knowledge of IT governance, risk management, and business continuity planning.
• Available in short notice is an advantage.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Thinking
• Leadership & Team Development
• Problem Solving & Decision Making
• Project Management
• Stakeholder Management
• Vendor Management
• Customer Service Orientation
• Communication & Influencing Skills
• Change Management
• Business Process Improvement

Perks and Benefits:

• Company Culture: Our company values teamwork, collaboration, and a positive work environment. We celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging, ensuring that you feel valued and appreciated as part of our family!
• Competitive Compensation: We offer a competitive salary package that will be commensurate with your experience and skills, ensuring that your hard work and dedication are rewarded.
• Career Growth Opportunities: We believe in fostering a culture of learning and development. You'll have access to ongoing training programs, workshops, and opportunities for career advancement within our company.
• Food & Beverage and Retail Discounts: As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy generous discounts on our delectable offerings, allowing you to savour the flavours of our creations.
• Creative Environment: Our F&B company thrives on creativity, innovation, and fun. You'll be part of a fun dynamic team where your ideas are valued, and you'll have the freedom to express your creativity.
• Employee Recognition: We believe in acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of our team members. Outstanding performance and achievements will be recognized and rewarded through various employee recognition programs.