Director of Information & Technology

Position Overview

The Director of Information & Technology plays a pivotal leadership role in overseeing the strategic and operational technology functions for a large property or multiple properties with shared infrastructure. This position combines the responsibilities of a Property Systems Manager with revenue-generating technology services, ensuring alignment with the property’s business objectives and guest experience enhancement. The Director collaborates closely with property management and Regional Information Resources (IR) leadership to identify, acquire, and implement technology solutions tailored to the property’s specific customer base, such as conventions or corporate events. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and team leadership to drive innovation, optimize systems performance, and ensure seamless integration of technology across the property.

Key Responsibilities

The Director of Information & Technology is responsible for the following core functions:

• Strategic Leadership and Project Management: Serves as the on-site project manager for technology initiatives, including system upgrades, new implementations, and infrastructure enhancements. Develops and executes project plans that align with budgetary constraints, compliance standards, and property-specific requirements. Coordinates with multiple vendors to ensure timely and cost-effective project delivery while maintaining adherence to Marriott International policies and security protocols.
• Technology Assessment and Optimization: Evaluates the lifecycle of technology assets, including hardware, software, and peripherals, to ensure optimal performance and cost efficiency. Identifies and resolves system performance issues, certifies software applications for property use, and maintains up-to-date documentation for cabling, network systems, and applications. Develops and implements disaster recovery and business continuity plans to safeguard critical technology operations.
• Financial Stewardship and Revenue Generation: Analyzes technology-related revenue streams, including telecommunications, high-speed internet access (HSIA), business center technologies, and audio-visual (A/V) services. Manages the technology profit and loss (P&L) to ensure financial sustainability and growth. Collaborates with property management to develop realistic capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operating budgets, ensuring alignment with short- and long-term business objectives.
• Team Leadership and Development: Provides direct supervision to property systems managers, technicians, and on-site shared services staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Leverages advanced knowledge in data communications, desktop support, and network/server management to mentor junior staff and resolve complex technical issues. Ensures compliance with Marriott International’s Information Security Manual and other regulatory standards.
• Vendor and Compliance Management: Reviews and verifies compliance with technology-related vendor contracts, ensuring that all services and products meet contractual obligations and performance standards. Conducts periodic inventories of applications and hardware to maintain accurate asset tracking and security. Advises property management on technology needs and solutions to support business growth and operational efficiency.

Candidate Profile

To excel in this role, candidates must possess the following qualifications and experience:

• Education and Experience: A bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field is required, along with 5-7 years of progressive experience in a similar leadership role. Professional certifications in systems management, cybersecurity, or related disciplines are highly desirable.
• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated expertise in network hardware, desktop support, peripherals, protocols, communications, and operating systems. Familiarity with Marriott International’s internal applications, such as MARSHA, PMS, NGS, and SFA, is essential. Advanced knowledge of data communications, servers, and network design is critical for troubleshooting and optimization.
• Leadership and Management Skills: Proven experience in managing teams, including property systems managers and technicians, with a strong emphasis on matrix management and cross-functional collaboration. Ability to lead strategic initiatives, drive innovation, and align technology solutions with business objectives.
• Analytical and Financial Acumen: Strong analytical skills to assess technology needs, forecast financial requirements, and optimize revenue generation. Experience in managing technology budgets, analyzing P&L statements, and developing financial strategies to support property growth.
• Communication and Collaboration: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage with stakeholders, property management, and regional leadership. Ability to articulate technical concepts to non-technical audiences and foster a collaborative work environment.

Work Environment and Location

The Director of Information & Technology will be based in Umm Al Qura, Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and will report to the property’s senior leadership team. This full-time position requires on-site presence to oversee daily operations, manage projects, and ensure seamless technology integration across the property. The role demands a high level of adaptability, problem-solving, and strategic thinking to navigate the dynamic landscape of hospitality technology and guest service excellence.