IT Manager

This position is responsible for managing all local computer technology and services in the Hotel which can include, but is not limited to: networks, hardware, operating systems, anti-virus, internet access and all related systems, office automation and email systems, departmental systems for front office, back office, sales & catering, personnel, spa, and other network based software supporting these systems; network security and compliance; where not the responsibility of the Engineering department, cabling, access control system, voice and guest technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• First point of contact for all computer related issues within the hotel.
• Solve technical or operational problems as reported by the users.
• Ensure that equipment is in proper working order and application performance is optimized
• Ensure that all 24/7 systems (i.e. front office, point of sale, email and internet) are monitored and that technical service is available any time.
• Ensure that backups are performed and checked on a regular basis.
• Ensure that hotel network, systems and data is secured from unwanted intrusion and in line with stated Kempinski standards and rules and regulations given by law.
• Ensure that IT contingency systems for all key business areas are in proper working order and that staff are trained in the switching to, and use of, these contingency systems.
• Follow Kempinski policies as they relate to the security and operation of the computer systems.
• Ensure that the IT organizational requirements for legal, data protection and PCI compliance are in place.
• Update all computer systems with the latest security patches to minimize internal and external access security risks.
• Train and maintain back-up staff for each server-based application
• Ensure first level support backup is in place for all systems and network.
• In cooperation with all other department heads; design and implement new computer based procedures that will improve profitability, operations and work efficiencies.
• Coordinate the installation of all new applications or upgrades of existing applications.
• Coordinate and review all new software development specific to the hotel, in accordance to Kempinski policies and standards.
• Implement all corporate IT related policies and procedures and carry out an annual self audit.
• Provide advice to better expedite access and to improve the use of information in the Hotel.
• Take direction from the Corporate IT department as it relates to the technical operation of computer technology hardware and software.
• Communicate status, risks and opportunities as it relates to IT to Corporate & Regional IT, General Manager and Hotel Management.
• Responsible for communication with computer vendors and Kempinski Corporate IT Department.
• Responsible for timely preparation and submission of all IT budgets
• Responsible for the management and control of all IT budgets according to an agreed plan and budget.
• Ensure a business continuity plan is established and tested together with the department heads for all part of the business supported by IT.
• Maximize employee productivity and morale within the department and consistently maintain discipline within hotel guidelines and local regulations.
• Schedule employees in line with varying business levels in order to maximize productivity and minimize payroll costs.
• Select and recruit suitable employees for the department using prescribed set of policies and procedures
• Identify employees with potential for promotion and/or transfer and makes appropriate development plans for him/her together Director of People Services.
• Work within all pre-set budgetary limits.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Masters or Bachelor Degree in IT Administration, MIS
• Minimum of 10 years experience in IT and the hospitality industry
• Preferably, combination of a company area or regional position involved with Hotel systems configuration and administration and working knowledge in service industry operations, managerial and international experience.
• Opera PMS
• Opera S&C
• Opera Cloud
• Micros POS
• ORS/SFA/OCIS
• MS Office
• Windows AD
• LAN and WAN implementations
• Novell GroupWise
• Watchguard
• Guest Facing Technologies
• Telephony and Communication solutions
• Call Accounting
• Facilities and Guest Service solutions
• HSIA solutions
• Artificial Intelligence