Head of Technology

PORTWEST, a leading global manufacturer of safety wear, workwear and PPE. Founded in 1904, Portwest has become one of the fastest growing workwear companies in the world currently employing over 6000 staff worldwide. With 1400 styles across more than 20 ranges, we design, manufacture and distribute market leading workwear, safety wear and PPE in fully owned production facilities. We’re on a mission to become the world’s most requested PPE and Safety Wear Brand

 

JOB SUMMARY:

Portwest is seeking a commercially minded Head of Technology based in Westport, Ireland, Manchester, UK or San Sebastian, Spain on a full time basis, reporting to the Managing Director. This is a senior technology leadership role with responsibility for strengthening and scaling Portwest’s global technology capability across manufacturing, logistics, retail, and digital operations. The role spans enterprise systems, supply chain and warehouse technology, infrastructure, cybersecurity, data and reporting, AI and automation, e-commerce platforms, and IT governance, and will suit a leader who can combine strategic thinking with strong delivery across a fast-paced international business.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Head of Technology will provide hands-on leadership across Portwest’s global technology landscape, ensuring technology supports business growth, service quality, operational excellence, and cross-functional improvement.

They will lead, develop and support the internal IT and technology teams while strengthening project delivery capabilities and manage key external technology partners globally. Their scope of impact will play a key role in improving resilience, efficiency, customer experience, and the long-term scalability of Portwest’s global operations.

Through strategy and leadership, the Head of Technology will lead the development and delivery of a clear technology roadmap aligned to Portwest’s growth plans, building a more scalable, proactive, and business-focused technology function.

Ensure key enterprise systems and operational efficiencies through the oversight of the performance, development, and integration of ERP, WMS, CRM, finance, reporting, and core infrastructure platforms to support efficient, reliable operations across international sites

Ensure strong Cybersecurity process and governance are in place to manage risk, ensure business continuity, disaster recover, data protection, vendor oversight and technology governance across the organization.  

 

Responsible for digital transformation and innovation through the identification and delivery of practical opportunities in AI, automation, analytics, workflow digitisation, smart warehousing, planning tools, and customer-facing digital platforms, with a focus on clear operational and commercial benefit.

Support multiple international locations by driving greater consistency across systems, processes, and infrastructure in manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, retail, and digital operations.

Build strong relationships across operations, finance, sales, product, and leadership teams, translating business needs into technology solutions and balancing day-to-day operational stability with continuous improvement.

REQUIREMENTS:

Essential Experience

• 10+ years experience in senior IT, technology, or digital leadership roles
• Experience within manufacturing, distribution, retail, logistics, or supply chain environments
• Strong understanding of enterprise systems and operational technology
• Experience leading ERP and business systems transformation projects
• Proven experience managing infrastructure, cybersecurity, and vendor ecosystems
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills

Desirable Experience

• Experience in a fast-growing international business
• Exposure to AI, automation, and data transformation initiatives
• Experience supporting e-commerce or omnichannel retail operations
• Knowledge of warehouse and supply chain technologies
• Experience operating across multiple international sites and regions