Director of Technology Enablement

Director of Technology Enablement  South Pittsburg, TN (hybrid)   About Lodge Cast Iron We got our start over 125 years ago when Joseph Lodge founded the Blacklock Foundry in South Pittsburg, TN. His scrappy, hardworking spirit continues to lead us today. As a team, we believe cast iron is for everyone. We're dedicated to manufacturing American-made cookware that we're proud to use in our very own homes and excited to bring to kitchens, backyards, and campfires around the world. Day in and day out, we work together to stay safe, have fun, and be better than we were the day before. What fires us up? By now, you may have caught on to the fact that we're serious about spreading the joys of cast iron. And while we're always on the lookout for ways to innovate, we believe in the adage: If it ain't broke, don't fix it. That's why we stand by a simple recipe of just iron and oil (no forever chemicals, since forever). It's also why we're passionate about keeping our campus in our hometown of South Pittsburg, Tennessee, providing great jobs to our community. As we bring our cookware to the next generation of cast iron chefs, we're looking for people to help us stay true to our roots every step of the way. Does that sound like something you can get behind? A Day in the LifeThe Director of Technology Enablement leads Lodge's digital transformation by modernizing enterprise systems, manufacturing technologies, and data platforms. This role connects data, automation, and strategy to unlock insight, efficiency, and innovation, bridging the science of cast iron manufacturing with advanced digital capability.The Director reports to the Vice President of Finance and Administration and is accountable for both operational IT excellence and strategic technology enablement. This includes oversight of the IT Services team responsible for infrastructure, cybersecurity, and help desk functions, while personally leading technology initiatives thatenhance business performance, manufacturing precision, and decision speed.Working cross-functionally with Foundry Operations, Supply Chain, Sales, Finance, Marketing, People and Culture and Retail, this leader ensures that Lodge's technology investments accelerate growth, improve productivity, and strengthen competitive advantage. Because engaging with internal team members is critical to the role's success, this position is based on our campus in South Pittsburg, TN, with opportunity for a hybrid schedule.Responsibilities:Enterprise Technology Leadership· Develop and execute a 3–5 year technology enablement roadmap aligned with Lodge's strategic plan and enterprise growth priorities.· Partner with senior leaders to modernize business systems, strengthen integrations, and enable scalable processes across functions.· Oversee Lodge's enterprise application ecosystem (ERP, MES, CRM, POS, HCM< Commerce, and Marketing platforms) to ensure reliability, integration, and optimization.· Maintain accountability for IT operations while delegating day-to-day infrastructure, cybersecurity, and help desk management to the IT Services Manager and team.· Partner with Finance and Operations to measure ROI and ensure technology investments drive measurable business outcomes.Digital Transformation and AI Enablement· Lead initiatives that integrate automation, data, and AI into business processes to enhance efficiency, insight, and scalability.· Partner with the Data & Analytics team to develop predictive analytics and AI capabilities that improve decision-making and business forecasting.· Evaluate and pilot emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, and digital twins for applicability to Lodge's business and manufacturing operations.· Champion a data-driven culture, promoting adoption of digital tools that improve information visibility and speed of decision-making.Foundry and Manufacturing Modernization· Partner with Foundry Operations, Engineering, and Continuous Improvement to apply data science, automation, and process monitoring that reduce scrap, improve yield, and enhance metallurgical precision.· Lead the adoption of Industry 4.0 practices, including connected sensors, real-time process monitoring, and advanced process control systems.· Translate complex manufacturing data into actionable intelligence to optimize equipment performance, production consistency, and cost efficiency.· Support technology integration within safety, quality, and throughput objectives across foundry and production lines.Enterprise Integration and Business Enablement· Bridge technology and business strategy by aligning system capabilities with enterprise goals.· Collaborate with Supply Chain, Retail, and Marketing teams to enhance end-to-end visibility from foundry to customer through connected data systems.· Lead cross-functional technology projects from planning through implementation, ensuring alignment, budget control, and post-launch optimization.· Drive digital initiatives that enhance employee experience, process reliability, and customer satisfaction.Leadership and Team Development· Provide strategic direction and mentorship for IT, Applications, and Infrastructure teams, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.· Build strong partnerships across departments to position IT as a proactive business enabler and trusted problem solver.· Coach and develop high-potential employees for future leadership roles.· Communicate clear priorities and success measures, ensuring the team's work aligns with enterprise goals.Basic Requirements:· BS/BA degree in Information Technology, Engineering, or Business; advanced degree preferred.· 10+ years of progressive IT, digital transformation, or technology leadership experience, preferably within a manufacturing or industrial setting.· 5+ years in a senior management role leading multi-disciplinary IT or digital teams.Summary of Necessary Knowledge, Experience and Skills: · Proven success leading technology modernization, automation, or enablement initiatives that drove measurable impact.· Demonstrated ability to integrate ERP, MES, CRM, HCM, and analytics systems to create visibility and traceability from foundry to customer.· Strong understanding of AI, Industry 4.0, and data architecture within manufacturing and commercial operations.· Familiarity with IT infrastructure and cybersecurity management (direct experience preferred but not required). · Excellent project management, communication, and change leadership skills. · Strategic, systems-oriented thinker with the ability to translate complex concepts into actionable plans.Employee BenefitsCompetitive PayGenerous Paid Time offInsurance Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription, Life, and Short-Term Disability)On-Site Clinic and Fitness Center401K Match and Deferred Profit-Sharing ProgramQuarterly Profit SharingEmployee Assistance ProgramScholarship Opportunity and Tuition ReimbursementDiscounts at Lodge Factory Stores and Big Bad Breakfast