Director IT - Ashcroft : Job Details

Responsible for leading US and Mexico information technology strategy, infrastructure, systems, and support functions. Drive technology innovation to meet business objectives and maintain competitive advantage. This is a high-impact leadership role, requiring both strategic vision and a willingness to roll up your sleeves. The ideal candidate will bring experience in manufacturing and distribution environments and be comfortable working cross-functionally to drive efficiency, automation, security, and data-driven decision-making in all areas of the North America Operations. Provide strategic input and if required, execution of global strategy related to infrastructure, security and business continuity.

• Define and execute the organization's company's IT roadmap aligned with business goals.
• Lead, mentor, and develop an internal IT team that emphasizes unit-integrity, personal growth, staff retention, cross-training, and succession planning.
• Collaborate with Ashcroft's engineering, manufacturing, sales and marketing, finance, HR and Supply Chain teams to provide strategic, cohesive, and automated solutions.
• Act as a strategic advisor to the Stratford staff on technology-related matters.
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of all IT infrastructure (networks, servers, security, clouds, etc.).
• Ensure high availability and performance of our ERP/WMS, CRM, OT, and other business-critical systems.
• Lead optimization, integration and automation of systems supporting manufacturing, inventory, and distribution.
• Evaluate and implement new technology solutions to streamline operations, provide flexibility for new product development, and reduce costs.
• Working with senior security personnel, develop and enforce IT security policies and procedures.
• Manage disaster recovery planning and business continuity strategies and routinely test Ashcroft's business continuity procedures.
• Cultivate relationships with IT vendors and third-party service providers that have Ashcroft's best interests at heart.
• Develop and manage the IT budget with a focus on efficiency, cost control and ROI.
• Ensure timely and effective support to end-users across the organization.
• Establish SLAs and KPIs to monitor IT service delivery and performance.

• Bachelor's degree in information technology, Computer Science, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 20+ years of progressive IT experience with a comprehensive set of skills, including leadership in manufacturing, fulfillment, and custom software development.
• Proven success managing an IT team and balancing tactical and strategic responsibilities.
• Strong understanding of ERP systems (Epicor preferred), and manufacturing or logistics software.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and compliance requirements (e.g., NIST, ISO, CMMC).
• Hands-on experience with securely integrating internal systems and cloud platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS).
• Strong experience in Microsoft M365, Azure, and SQL Server
• Experience with contract negotiations and vendor management

• Strong understanding of current technology trends, including cloud computing, AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
• Continuously learning new things, with hands-on expertise
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.
• Strong project management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Budget-conscious and ROI-driven
• Collaborative, adaptable

Ashcroft Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity EmployerEOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability

Please note: The position requires U.S. Citizen, Permanent Legal Resident or granted Asylee/Refugee status under the Immigration and Nationality Act.

• Director

• Full-time

• Information Technology