Role Overview for Chief Technology Officer with a Global Retailer – Seattle, WA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier global retailer in their search for a transformative Chief Technology Officer (CTO) based in the vibrant tech hub of Seattle, WA. This is a rare executive leadership opportunity to redefine the technological landscape of a household name in the retail industry. We are seeking a visionary leader who will serve as a key member of the executive team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer.
The CTO will be the driving force behind the company’s technology strategy, responsible for architecting a future-proof, scalable, and innovative technology ecosystem that enhances every facet of the business—from customer experience and e-commerce to supply chain and in-store operations. You will inherit a talented team and be empowered to build a world-class technology organization.
This role is not merely about managing IT; it is about harnessing the power of technology to create competitive advantages, drive revenue growth, and solidify our client’s position as a leader in the global retail market. You will be the strategic partner to the business, translating complex business needs into robust technological solutions and championing a culture of innovation, agility, and excellence across the entire organization.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Technology Officer with a Global Retailer – Seattle, WA
The Chief Technology Officer will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, including but not limited to:
Strategic Technology Leadership & Vision
Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-term technology vision and strategy that aligns with and advances the company’s overall business objectives. Articulate this vision to the board, executive team, and all levels of the organization to ensure buy-in and cohesive execution. Proactively identify and champion emerging technologies that can create significant business value.
Digital Transformation & Omnichannel Excellence
Spearhead the company’s digital transformation initiatives, ensuring a seamless and integrated omnichannel experience for customers across all touchpoints—web, mobile, social, and physical stores. Drive the evolution of our e-commerce platform to enhance customer engagement, conversion, and loyalty.
Engineering & IT Operations Leadership
Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing global team of engineers, IT professionals, and data scientists. Foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and accountability. Oversee all aspects of IT operations, ensuring the reliability, security, and scalability of all enterprise systems and infrastructure.
Data Strategy, Analytics, and AI/ML Innovation
Architect and implement a robust data strategy that transforms data into a core strategic asset. Champion the use of advanced analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to drive personalized customer experiences, optimize pricing, improve demand forecasting, and streamline operations. Ensure data governance and quality standards are met across the organization.
Cybersecurity, Risk Management, and Compliance
Establish and maintain a comprehensive enterprise-wide information security program to protect company and customer data. Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards, such as PCI DSS, GDPR, and CCPA. Develop and implement disaster recovery and business continuity plans to mitigate risk.
Technology Architecture & Infrastructure Modernization
Oversee the design and evolution of the company’s technology architecture, promoting a modern, scalable, and flexible stack. Lead the migration to cloud-based infrastructure and services (AWS, Azure, GCP) where appropriate, balancing cost, performance, and security to optimize the technology footprint.
Financial Management & Vendor Relations
Develop and manage the annual technology budget, ensuring investments are aligned with strategic priorities and deliver a strong return on investment. Lead technology procurement and manage key vendor relationships and contract negotiations to ensure favorable terms and high-quality service delivery.
Product Technology & In-Store Experience
Drive innovation in in-store technology, including Point of Sale (POS) systems, inventory management, and customer engagement tools, to create a frictionless and engaging physical retail experience. Collaborate closely with product management teams to define and deliver the technology roadmap for all customer-facing digital products.
Supply Chain & Logistics Technology Optimization
Partner with supply chain leaders to leverage technology to optimize inventory management, warehouse operations, logistics, and fulfillment. Implement systems and processes that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance delivery speed and accuracy.
Executive Collaboration & Stakeholder Management
Serve as a true partner to other C-level executives, providing technological insights and guidance to inform overall business strategy. Effectively communicate technology strategy, initiatives, and performance to the board of directors, investors, and other key stakeholders.
Requirements for the Chief Technology Officer with a Global Retailer – Seattle, WA
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned technology executive with a proven track record of leadership and innovation in a complex, large-scale environment. Key qualifications include:
Executive Technology Leadership Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of experience in technology, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., CTO, CIO, VP of Engineering) for a large-scale, multi-national organization. Experience reporting to a CEO and presenting to a board is highly desirable.
Deep Retail & E-commerce Industry Expertise
Significant experience within the retail, e-commerce, or consumer goods industry is essential. A profound understanding of retail business models, challenges, and the specific technologies that drive success (e.g., e-commerce platforms, POS, WMS, CRM) is required.
Proven Digital Transformation Success
Demonstrated experience leading large-scale digital transformation and business change initiatives. Must be able to point to specific examples of how your leadership resulted in improved customer experience, operational efficiency, and revenue growth.
Technical Acumen Across Modern Stacks
While this is a strategic role, a strong technical foundation is critical. Deep knowledge of modern software development practices, cloud computing (AWS, Azure, or GCP), microservices architecture, data engineering, and API strategy is required. The ideal candidate will be adept at navigating the complexities of modern retail, including the integration of cutting-edge retail technology trends to create a seamless customer journey.
Data-Driven Decision-Making Prowess
Extensive experience in leveraging data analytics, business intelligence, and machine learning to inform strategy and drive business outcomes. Must be a champion for a data-first culture.
Expertise in Cybersecurity and Compliance
A strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and experience implementing robust security frameworks in a retail environment, which handles sensitive customer and payment data.
Exceptional Business & Financial Acumen
The ability to think like a business owner, with a strong grasp of financial principles. Experience managing significant P&L and capital budgets is a must.
Inspirational Leadership and Communication Skills
Proven ability to recruit, develop, and retain top-tier technical talent. Must be an exceptional communicator and influencer, capable of building consensus and strong relationships with technical and non-technical stakeholders at all levels.
Strategic and Innovative Mindset
A forward-thinking leader who is constantly scanning the horizon for new technological opportunities and potential disruptions. Must be comfortable with ambiguity and skilled at navigating a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced business degree is a strong plus.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation package, designed to attract and retain the very best talent. This includes:
- Competitive Executive Base Salary
- Annual Performance-Based Bonus
- Significant Long-Term Incentive Plan (Equity/Stock Options)
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance for you and your family
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Company Holidays
- 401(k) Retirement Plan with a strong company match
- Executive Relocation Package to the Seattle area
- Professional Development and Continuing Education Allowance
- Substantial Employee Discount on company products
- A dynamic, collaborative, and innovative work culture with a mission-driven team
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary technology leader with the experience and passion to shape the future of a global retail giant, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. For more information about our expertise in this area, please visit the JRG Partners’ Technology Executive Search practice page. We look forward to connecting with you.
