URBN Technology Director

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About Us

URBN UK Limited is part of the URBN Group, a global retailer, with its European Head Office located in London. Its retail offering in Europe takes the form of three brands.

With stores in more than 10 European countries and a strong e-commerce presence, we're driven by the same core values as our customers, and we approach our work with a sense of community and purpose that sets our brands apart. We love what we do.

Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of Technology - UK & EU to oversee technology operations across the UK and EU. Acting as an extension of the URBN Technology Group based in the US, this role ensures seamless alignment with the global technology strategy while adapting it to meet local business needs and priorities.

This position plays a critical role in tailoring global technology initiatives to address regional requirements and ensuring their successful implementation and ongoing support. The ideal candidate will be a strategic leader with a strong understanding of technology's role in retail operations, including merchandising, retail stores, e-commerce, supply chain, and finance. They must also have the operational expertise to manage a lean team, providing first-line support while leveraging the US-based technology group for specialized knowledge and escalation.

What You'll Be Doing

Strategic Leadership:

• Serve as the primary technology leader for URBN brands in the UK & EU, representing and influencing the global technology strategy with the regional requirements.
• Partner with UK/EU business leaders to understand operational needs and ensure alignment with technology priorities.
• Identify opportunities to leverage technology and AI-driven solutions for enhancing operational efficiency and delivering an exceptional customer experience.

Technology Operations:

• Ensure the efficient operation of the technology infrastructure at the Brick Lane corporate office, retail stores, Peterborough fulfillment center and satellite offices in Turkey and India.
• Oversee the technology landscape across operational areas in the UK/EU, ensuring seamless functionality and support for retail stores, e-commerce platforms, merchandising processes, supply chain operations, and financial systems
• Oversee the deployment of global technology solutions, ensuring they are effectively implemented to meet local brand needs.

Team Leadership & Collaboration:

• Lead and develop a lean, high-performing and matrixed technology team, fostering a collaborative and solution-oriented culture.
• Collaborate closely with the US-based URBN Technology Group to leverage domain expertise, allowing the UK-based team to serve as an effective extension of the US team.
• Act as the escalation point for critical technology issues, ensuring swift resolution and minimal disruption to operations.

Compliance & Governance:

• Ensure all technology operations comply with UK/EU regulatory requirements, including data protection and security standards.
• Maintain a robust governance framework for technology deployments, ensuring alignment with global standards.

What You'll Need

• Bachelor's degree in information technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in technology leadership roles, preferably within the retail industry.
• Proven track record of successfully managing technology operations and teams in a matrixed and multi-national context, with specific experience in the UK and EU markets.
• Proven experience in supporting and maintaining technology infrastructure, with a deep understanding of retail technology systems, including eCommerce, POS, supply chain, and merchandising solutions.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to oversee operations, multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• A strategic thinker skilled in identifying and addressing technology-related opportunities and challenges, with expertise in leveraging AI solutions.
• Experience with deploying and managing technology solutions in a global context, ensuring alignment with broader organizational strategies.

The Perks

• Work-life balance:
• • Flexible start and finish times
  • Bring your dog to work
• Wellbeing:
  • Employees Assistance program to support with mental, physical and financial health
  • Fully equipped free gym and on-site wellness room in Brick Lane and discount on external gym memberships
  • Private Medical Insurance
• Employee Discount:
  • Up to 40% off at all URBN Brands (Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free People and more!)
• Community:
  • One paid day to either volunteer or fundraise for a charity of your choice
• Travel:
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Season ticket loan
• Continued Development:
  • We offer structured support within the business alongside continued learning and development

#URBN #LI-JM2

Equal Opportunity Statement

URBN is an Equal Opportunities Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We provide equal employment opportunities regardless of age, sexual orientation, sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy, marital status, religion, race, or disability. We base all our employment decisions on merit, job requirements and business needs.