Restaurant Digital Technology Lead

Since 1940, Dairy Queen® has been one of the world’s best known and loved brands. Based in Minneapolis, MN, International Dairy Queen Inc., (IDQ), is the parent company of American Dairy Queen Corporation. As a leading franchisor, there are more than 7,000 independently owned and operated restaurants in the U.S., Canada and more than 20 countries around the world. IDQ is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (Berkshire) which is led by Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire.

Here at IDQ, we create extraordinary Fan experiences every day and we do this through our commitment to hiring and retaining only the best in class talent. We firmly believe that our employees are the catalyst to the success of the company where their initiative, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial spirit are recognized and rewarded. We're looking for motivated, passionate and dedicated individuals with an inherent need and ambition to go after bigger challenges.

Direct and control all work activity involving implementation and execution of mobile and digital technologies (fan facing and in-store) to compete in the QSR industry, including testing and deployment of all digital ordering platforms.

Responsible to ensure the stable operation, full life cycle development and successful integration of digital technologies. Responsible for managing key partner relationships and support to franchisees and corporate staff.

Primary Accountabilities:

 Lead and execute digital initiatives to reach company goals

• Research and drive selection, development, customization and placement of technology solutions based on industry’s best practices and trends.
• Subject Matter Expert on cross-functional digital restaurant technology projects.
• Provide detailed product requirements and specifications based on the current and future needs of the business to our vendor partners.
• Develop project plans and provide guidance to achieve effective release management. Document workflows, implementation and conversions of system configurations.
• Identify and enforce system standards for digital platforms and manage the interface efforts between all platform components (e.g., hardware, software, and peripherals).
• Manage deployment and installation processes for ordering platforms and in-store tech. Manage system and integration stability, including issues and change control processes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on the roadmap for digital strategic initiatives.
• When needed, provide frontline support to operators, field force, and internal customers. Assist and provide technical support in the deployment process for digital platforms.

• Relationship Management – Internal and External Relationships

• Liaison to technology vendors regarding product features and planned enhancements. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Ensure alignment between vendors and corporate through quarterly meeting updates, etc.
  • Ensure prioritization of current issues
  • Manage and validate releases for current digital technologies Responsible for the management of Enhancement Requests for proper prioritization
• Liaison to business and lead projects for initiatives that affect restaurant technology and digital solutions.

• Relationship Management – Internal and External Relationships

• Liaison to technology vendors regarding product features and planned enhancements. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Ensure alignment between vendors and corporate through quarterly meeting updates, etc.
  • Ensure prioritization of current issues
  • Manage and validate releases for current digital technologies. Responsible for management of Enhancement Requests for proper prioritization
• Liaison to business and lead projects for initiatives that affect restaurant technology digital solutions.

The US national base salary range for this position is $102,987- $126,159. This position is also eligible for a bonus. The base salary range displayed reflects the targeted hiring range for positions across all US locations. Individual pay is determined by job-related skills, work location and relevant education or experience.

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree, or equivalent work experience in lieu of, with a technology emphasis.
• 7+ years of progressive and relevant experience, preferably in the restaurant technology industry.
• 3+ years of experience leading digital platform teams that interact with and manage third party vendors.
• Experience with implementation and technical support of digital ordering platforms (mobile ordering, web ordering, order at the table, kiosks, remote ordering, etc.)
• Strong knowledge and understanding of EPOS systems (PAR POS and Oracle Simphony preferable), iOS and Android devices/operating systems, UI / UX guidelines, and best practices.
• Knowledge of PCI compliance and payment technologies.
• Technical knowledge of Mobile technology interfaces with in-store EPOS systems.
• Must be very familiar with the deployment of mobile apps and digital applications across multiple platforms and enhancing application elements over a sustained period.
• Skill in defining program objectives and establishing technology standards, policies, and budgets.
• Experience in evaluating programs and thinking strategically about future directions for Technology.
• Ability to adapt quickly, stay abreast of emerging technologies and self-learn
• Ability to collaborate on projects and work efforts within cross-functional teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills, including presentation skills.
• Strong customer service experience.
• Advanced computer skills, with an ability to utilize software such as MS PowerPoint, MS Word and MS Excel to prepare and deliver presentations.  Ability to learn new software to utilize vendor portals.
• Ability to travel. Occasional travel may be required to help support digital initiatives

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Benefits

Our benefit package supports the well-being of our employees and their families.  Our comprehensive benefit package includes, medical, dental, 401K match, paid time off (including volunteer time as well as parental leave) and so much more!  To learn more about our great benefit offerings, Click Here.

Work Environment

Most positions located out of our global headquarters in Bloomington, MN will work a hybrid work schedule where you will work 2 collaboration days a week.  Additional in office time may be required to support team/project needs.  Positions will be identified as “remote eligible” when consideration will be given to candidates outside of drivable distance to our Bloomington office.

Inclusion & Belonging

We are committed to creating a culture of inclusion and belonging for all who touch DQ. We believe in and commit to fostering a community where employees bring their authentic selves to work, and where we recruit, engage, and retain employees, franchise owners, and suppliers based on qualifications and merit. We strive to maintain an environment where everyone feels welcome.

IDQ is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new team members. You must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.