Head of IT (m/w/d) in Essen

Shape the Digital Future of a Leading Construction Business

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Head of IT to lead our Information Systems & Technology function and drive the next phase of digital transformation.

Reporting directly to the CEO of HOCHTIEF Infrastructure and functionally to the Group CIO, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the company's technology and digital transformation agenda. You will drive enterprise-wide innovation through technology, data, and AI while ensuring operational excellence, cybersecurity, and a future‑ready IT landscape. Working closely with business leaders across the organization, you will position technology as a strategic enabler of growth, performance, and long-term success.

Head of IT (m/w/d)

Your Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the IT strategy aligned with business objectives and long-term growth ambitions.
• Lead digital transformation and business process optimization initiatives, including automation, data‑driven decision‑making, and AI adoption.
• Establish effective IT governance, operating models, and performance management frameworks.
• Ensure secure, scalable, and resilient IT operations and service delivery across corporate and project environments.
• Drive cybersecurity, data protection, risk management, business continuity, and regulatory compliance.
• Lead data governance initiatives and foster a culture of responsible AI usage.
• Manage strategic technology investments, budgets, vendors, and key partnerships.
• Build, develop, and inspire a high‑performing IT organization.
• Collaborate closely with executive leadership and business stakeholders across an international matrix organization.

What We Are Looking For

• An experienced IT leader with a proven track record of shaping and executing technology strategies that drive business performance and growth.

Extensive IT leadership experience, ideally within the construction, infrastructure, engineering, or another complex project‑based environment.

• Expertise in digital transformation, automation, cybersecurity, data governance, and AI‑enabled innovation.
• Strong experience with SAP environments, ideally SAP S/4HANA.
• A collaborative and influential leader with excellent stakeholder management and executive communication skills.
• Strong business acumen with excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Experience leading and developing high‑performing teams within international and matrix organizations.
• Academic background in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, Business Information Systems, or a related field.
• Fluent communication skills in English and German.

Preferred Experience

• International and multicultural business environments.
• Construction technology and digital construction solutions.
• Large‑scale transformation and change programs.
• Data governance, analytics, and business intelligence frameworks.
• Familiarity with project and portfolio management methodologies and tools.

What We Offer

• A key leadership role with direct influence on business and technology strategy.
• The opportunity to shape and drive the digital transformation of a leading international infrastructure company.
• Close collaboration with executive leadership and the HOCHTIEF Group IT organization.
• An international working environment with diverse stakeholders and projects.
• Attractive compensation package and development opportunities within a global organization.

Who We Are

HOCHTIEF is a tech‑focused, global provider of infrastructure solutions with leading positions in North America, Australia and Europe and a strong presence in the fast‑growing markets for data centers, energy transition and sustainable infrastructure.

HOCHTIEF Infrastructure implements transport, energy and building construction projects in Germany and Europe. We offer services for all phases of construction of buildings, bridges, roads, tunnels, ports, railways, airports or plants for the generation of conventional and renewable energy.

For any questions regarding the position, please contact Tim Jakubeit at +49 201 824‑2065.