Digital Technology Director

The Digital Technology Director is pivotal in steering the company through an extensive digital transformation and establishing a long-term technology strategy to meet the growing demands of the business.  

The Digital Technology Director will lead a dedicated technology leadership team (Head of Systems & Architecture, Head of Projects, Head of Data), manage relationships with third-party IT service providers and major software vendors, and oversee the deployment of various digital solutions.

The role demands a leader who is not only technically exceptional in all areas of technology (especially enterprise architecture) but also possesses a strong strategic vision, outstanding leadership qualities, and the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

This key leadership position is critical for Zodiac Maritime's continued growth and success, offering an opportunity to make a significant impact on the company's operational efficiency, security, and competitive positioning in the global marketplace. 

Key responsibilities and primary deliverables

• Digital Transformation Leadership: Head the digital transformation initiative by executing the transition to a modern, data-driven, efficient, and secure IT ecosystem. Drive the company-wide adoption of SaaS, cloud-based solutions, ensuring alignment with business objectives. 
• Team Management and Collaboration: Lead and manage the internal technology team, ensuring clear direction and effective execution of digital projects. Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand and meet their digital and system requirements. Build a culture of innovation and agility within the team. 
• Project Oversight: Supervise the digital transformation programme and ensure continuous improvement projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet the high-quality standards expected by Zodiac Maritime.  
• Vendor and IT Service Management: Establish and maintain productive relationships with strategic vendors. Oversee contract negotiations, manage ongoing performance, and ensure the delivery of services aligns with Zodiac Maritime's needs and expectations. 
• Technology Implementation: Direct the selection and implementation of key digital solutions, maintaining a commitment to best in class, Saas first model.
• Cybersecurity and Governance: Ensure the digital transformation adheres to appropriate standards of cybersecurity and governance. Implement comprehensive vessel cybersecurity solutions and establish policies to protect Zodiac Maritime's digital and operational assets. 
• Innovation and Future-Proofing: Continuously scan the horizon for emerging digital technologies and solutions that can offer competitive advantages to Zodiac Maritime. Evaluate and integrate innovative technologies that enhance operational efficiency and prepare the company for future challenges. 
• Budget and Resource Management: Manage the budget and ensure the efficient use of resources and the maximisation of return on investment for all technology initiatives. 
• Digital Culture and Insights: Promote a culture of digital innovation and agility within Zodiac Maritime. Provide insights into emerging trends, competitor analysis, and technological advancements that could impact the maritime industry. 
• Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with all levels of the organisation to ensure digital strategies are clearly understood and supported. Act as a bridge between technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring the benefits of digital transformation are effectively communicated and realised across the company. 

Skills profile

Relevant experience & education

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• 10+ years in senior technology leadership roles within large or complex organisations, ideally in heavy asset sectors (e.g., maritime, logistics, energy, infrastructure).
• Proven ability to develop and execute long-term digital strategies aligned with business goals and operational needs.
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic foresight to balance innovation with ROI and future-proofing.

Technology Expertise

• Deep expertise in enterprise architecture, including integration of legacy systems with modern platforms.
• Strong understanding of SaaS enterprise systems, cloud technologies, and data-driven ecosystems.
• Experience managing both legacy and modern technology environments, supporting cultural and operational change.
• Familiarity with maritime industry technologies and operational platforms (preferred).

Digital Transformation & Change Management

• Demonstrated success in leading technology transformation and digital enablement programmes.
• Skilled in managing cultural change, fostering digital adoption across technical and non-technical teams.
• Experience in driving agile methodologies, DevOps practices, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Team Leadership & Development

• Proven ability to lead and inspire cross-functional technology teams, including architecture, data, and project delivery.
• Strong people leadership skills with a track record of building high-performing teams and nurturing talent.
• Ability to foster a culture of innovation, agility, and accountability.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication

• Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and translate technical concepts into business impact.
• Exceptional communication skills to bridge technical and non-technical audiences, including board-level engagement.
• Skilled in stakeholder mapping, engagement planning, and change communications.

Vendor & Partner Management

• Experience managing strategic relationships with third-party IT service providers and major software vendors.
• Skilled in contract negotiation, performance management, and ensuring service delivery aligns with business needs.

Project & Programme Management

• Strong track record in overseeing large-scale digital programmes and continuous improvement projects.
• Proficiency in project governance, risk management, and budget control.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP, Agile).

Data & Analytics

• Understanding of data architecture, data governance, and analytics platforms.
• Ability to leverage data for strategic insights, operational improvements, and decision-making.
• Experience implementing business intelligence tools and data-driven KPIs.

Cybersecurity & Governance

• Background in implementing cybersecurity strategies across enterprise and operational domains.
• Experience in 
  threat detection, and incident response.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and governance frameworks (e.g., ISO 27001, NIST).

Budgeting & Resource Allocation

• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost optimisation.
• Experience managing multi-million-pound technology budgets and maximising ROI.

Innovation & Future-Proofing

• Passion for emerging technologies such as AI and IoT
• Ability to evaluate and integrate innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness.
• Strategic foresight to prepare the organisation for future technological shifts.