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Overview
The IT Team Lead CEE is responsible for overseeing IT operations within the market, ensuring the smooth delivery of IT services in line with global standards set by Central IT. This role involves managing first- and second-level IT support teams, maintaining operational efficiency, driving IT initiatives that support C&A’s business objectives, and acting as the primary liaison between the market’s IT function and Central IT.
Responsibilities
* Team Leadership & Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of first and second-level IT support staff; ensure effective operations, high morale, and professional growth; balance immediate troubleshooting with ongoing IT projects; foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
* IT Operations & Support: Oversee day‑to‑day IT support for retail stores, distribution centers, and corporate offices; resolve technical issues quickly to minimize downtime; adhere to global IT service management standards (e.g., ITIL) and maintain network infrastructure, hardware, software, and telecommunications systems.
* Central IT Standards Compliance: Implement and enforce IT policies, security protocols, and compliance guidelines established by Central IT; align market IT systems with global standards and regulatory requirements; roll out new global systems, applications, or upgrades with smooth local implementation.
* Technology Implementation & Projects: Lead market‑level IT projects, including system implementations, infrastructure upgrades, and software rollouts; deliver projects within scope, time, and budget; coordinate with Central IT and local business units; assess emerging technologies and recommend improvements.
* Retail Systems & Support: Support the POS team to ensure availability and performance of point‑of‑sale (POS) systems, inventory management tools, and other retail‑specific applications across all stores; coordinate with retail operations for store openings, closures, or relocations; monitor and enhance stability and performance of all retail IT systems.
* Vendor & Budget Management: Manage relationships with local IT vendors and service providers; ensure service‑level agreements (SLAs) are met; oversee the market’s IT budget, optimize costs while maintaining high service quality and reliability; negotiate contracts with hardware, software, and service vendors in alignment with company procurement policies.
* Security & Compliance: Ensure security of IT systems, including retail networks, by implementing and maintaining appropriate cybersecurity measures; comply with data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR) and other relevant legal and regulatory requirements; support internal audit team in regular audits of IT processes and systems.
* Stakeholder Management: Serve as the primary IT contact for market leadership; provide regular updates on IT performance, challenges, and opportunities; collaborate with business units (Finance, Operations, HR) to understand IT needs and deliver effective solutions; build strong relationships with regional and global IT teams.
Qualifications
* Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field; Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., ITIL, PMP) are a plus.
* Proven experience (5+ years) in an IT leadership role, preferably within the retail industry.
* Strong knowledge of IT infrastructure, retail systems (e.g., POS), and enterprise applications.
* Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a diverse IT support team.
* Experience in managing IT projects from conception to completion, within time and budget constraints.
* Strong vendor management, negotiation, and budget oversight skills.
* Excellent communication, leadership, and problemsolving abilities.
Key Competencies
* Leadership & People Management
* Strategic Thinking & Alignment with Global Standards
* Operational Excellence in IT Support
* Project Management & Implementation
* Retail Technology Expertise
* Security and Compliance Awareness
* Strong Communication & Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Benefits
* Countless learning and development opportunities via our C&A Academy
* Flexible hybrid work environment
* Employee discount of 20% in C&A stores
* Exciting job in an international and inspirational working environment
* Positive working atmosphere and a talented team with an open feedback culture
Equal Opportunity
We are led by a gender‑balanced board that is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization where everyone can become their best self. We do not discriminate based on age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, religion or belief, parental and family status, or any other protected characteristic. We welcome applications from women, men, and non‑binary candidates of all ethnicities and socio‑economic backgrounds. We encourage people belonging to under‑represented groups to apply. Even if you don’t check every box, but see yourself contributing, please apply and help us build an inclusive community.
Location: Vienna, Austria
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