Position Summary:

We are seeking an experienced IT Director to lead our organization's IT operations and oversee the IT strategy for the US market of a growing global omni-channel kitchenware company. This role ensures the alignment of technology initiatives with business objectives, while managing the planning, implementation, and maintenance of IT infrastructure, systems, policies, procedures and procurement.  A key focus is on ensuring the security, reliability, and scalability of our technology solutions.  This role goes beyond technology – it’s about enabling operational excellence, customer experience, and growth through smart IT solutions. You will bridge business needs and technical capabilities, ensuring IT serves as a true business partner to all functional teams.

As the Director of IT, you will develop and manage a team of skilled IT professionals, fostering strong and positive relationships with in-office and remote employees, while supporting their technological needs. This role will ensure that ZWILLING J.A. Henckels (ZJAH) and its employees are well equipped with the tools and resources necessary to deliver exceptional value to our customers.

Core Responsibilities:

Technology Operations & Strategy: Oversee all IT operations and evaluate performance against established goals. Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Evaluate and integrate new IT technologies to support organizational growth. Vendor & Contract Management: Design vendor governance framework and establish performance indications. Negotiate, manage, and ensure compliance with IT contracts, including renewals and service agreements. Process invoices and monitor IT-related expenditures. Optimize license use and procurement strategies for both hardware and software. IT Policies & Cybersecurity, Compliance & Risk: Develop and enforce IT policies for local ZJAH users that comply with industry standards and regulations, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures to protect data and systems. Team & Vendor Oversight: Lead and develop US-based IT team focused on reliability, service orientation, and continuous improvement. Managed third-party vendors, MSPs, and technology partners to ensure cost-effective, high-quality service.  Develop and manage IT budgets, procurement plans and technology lifecycle strategies. Technology Research & Innovation: Stay informed on emerging technologies and make strategic recommendations to enhance ZJAH operations. Process Optimization: Identify and implement improvements in IT processes to increase efficiency and streamline workflows. Hardware & Software Management: Oversee maintenance schedules, inventory, and replacement plans for all IT hardware and software. Project Management: Lead and execute multiple critical IT projects simultaneously, ensuring timely and successful completion. User Support & Engagement: Proactively understand and anticipate the technology needs ensuring seamless IT support and service. IT Asset Management: Manage IT asset life cycle initiatives and develop governance models for operational and capital IT assets. Decision Making: Exercise broad autonomy in setting goals and determining execution methods.  Makes informed data-driven decision to enhance IT investments and outcomes. Cross-Border and Cross Functional Collaboration: Work closely with global IT and business teams to ensure systems and practices align geographically. Contribute to global IT initiatives including system rollouts, data governance and digital transformation.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or a related discipline. 10+ years of IT operations experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role supporting distribution, logistics or omni-channel retail. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical audiences. Strong understanding of how IT enables order fulfillment, supply chain optimization, and customer service across multiple channels. Proven ability to lead IT within a business-first context, balancing operational support with strategic projects. Experience with ERP (e.g., NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP), WMS, TMS, and e-commerce platforms. Demonstrate expertise in IT Asset Management and Vendor Management

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in a mid-sized, multi-location, or CPG company. Familiarity with tools and platforms like SAP, Shopify, Salesforce, Power BI, WMS, Azure, or AWS. Solid understanding of ITIL, project management, and cybersecurity best practices.

Compensation Range: Base Salary of $160,000.00- $190,000.00 per year contingent upon experience 

ABOUT US:
For over 290 years, ZWILLING J.A. Henckels has offered premium products that enhance professional and home chefs' lives worldwide. Since its start as an esteemed cutlery brand, the company has grown to include a coveted collection of cookware, flatware, glassware, and kitchen gadgets. Tradition, quality, innovation, and craftsmanship are their ingredients for success.

Today, ZWILLING J.A. Henckels is an international industry leader that sells products in 100 countries. Always looking forward, ZWILLING acquired global heritage brands —Staub (France), Demeyere (Belgium), Ballarini (Italy), and MIYABI (Japan)—to give its customers access to the most exceptional kitchen products.