Vacancy : Head of Data & IT

Head of Data & IT

As Head of Data & Technology, you will shape the digital future of CARU. You will develop the vision, strategy, and roadmap for process automation and technological innovation, with AI as a key driver, while building the team that will bring this future to life.

Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands

CARU Containers is the largest independent container supplier in the world. With eight offices across four continents and a team of just seventy enthusiastic colleagues, they sell more than 120,000 shipping containers every year.

The world is constantly changing, and this is reflected in the container market. CARU strongly believes in technology as a driving force behind this transformation. Their application landscape is growing rapidly: from ERP integrations to smart AI-driven workflows that continuously improve their processes.

As a family-owned company with Rotterdam roots, CARU is committed to making a positive impact — including through technology. Their culture is family-oriented, direct, and no-nonsense: short communication lines, fast decision-making, and a strong focus on getting things done.

As Head of Data & Technology, you will report directly to the CFO and have full responsibility for CARU’s entire IT and data landscape. You will lead the young Data & Technology team and define the direction for the coming years.

You will be responsible for developing the vision, strategy, planning, and roadmap for process automation and technological innovation within CARU.

As an AI-driven innovator, you want to stay ahead of technological developments and implement AI solutions safely and effectively to strengthen CARU’s competitive position.

This is a role with significant responsibility, where you will be accountable for the entire IT infrastructure: managing the MSP relationship, hardware, software and cloud environments, ensuring security and compliance, including network security and supporting IT audits.

You will act as the orchestrator of the complete application landscape: Microsoft 365, Azure, Copilot AI, Logic Apps, Claude AI (including custom applications), and low-code applications (Mendix).

From managing all IT budgets and negotiating supplier contracts to aligning with the business, the management team, and collaborating closely with colleagues worldwide.

What do you get in return?

• An international working environment at one of the most beautiful locations in the Port of Rotterdam, in a fully renovated office;
• A delicious lunch during office days;
• A fun team with weekly padel and sports activities;
• The opportunity to attend football matches of Feyenoord and Excelsior;
• Through Productowner.nl: a product owner training of your choice, the Product Owner book, and a ticket to the largest product owner event.

What we are looking for in a Head of Data & Technology

• You have at least 10 to 15 years of experience in a senior product or IT management role;
• You bring positive energy, are fast-moving and proactive, and have a natural curiosity for new technological developments and trends;
• Extensive experience with the Microsoft Stack and Azure, including Cloud AI, Azure SQL, Copilot AI, and Logic Apps;
• As Mendix experience is scarce in the market, affinity with the Microsoft Power Platform is a plus, but not a requirement;
• You are an excellent communicator, a natural connector, and a strong stakeholder manager towards the business, management team, and external suppliers.