Head of IT – Global Travel Startup

This is a remote position. Our new client is a rapidly growing, private equity-backed startup in the travel experiences industry, pursuing an ambitious global buy-and-build strategy. Its portfolio consists of entrepreneurial, founder-led businesses operating across multiple countries.

As the group expands, technology must evolve from locally managed environments into a secure, reliable and scalable group capability. We are looking for a Head of IT to build and lead this capability, bringing practical structure and consistent standards to a growing international organisation.

The Role Reporting directly to the CEO, you will own the strategy, operating model and day-to-day effectiveness of IT across the group. This is a strategic and hands-on leadership role .

You will define the Group IT Target Operating Model, covering infrastructure, end-user computing, service desk, cybersecurity, identity and access management, data protection, vendor management and IT governance.

You will build a pragmatic, scalable service model through a combination of Managed Service Providers (MSPs), specialist partners and internal resources , while ensuring that everyday technology issues are resolved effectively.

You will also play a central role in acquisitions, assessing target companies’ technology environments and leading their integration into the group.

Key Responsibilities

IT Strategy & Target Operating Model Define and implement the Group IT strategy and Target Operating Model. Determine which capabilities should be managed internally, outsourced to MSPs or delivered through specialist partners. Establish clear responsibilities and decision rights at group and local levels.

Develop an IT organisation and service model that supports continued international acquisitions. Introduce appropriate standards, policies, governance and KPIs. Build a roadmap for moving portfolio businesses from fragmented local environments towards the agreed target state. Infrastructure & End-User Technolog