Who are Bird & Blend Tea co?

Bird & Blend Tea Co. is an eco-conscious, people-focused, award-winning & B Corp-certified Tea Mixology company on a mission to spread happiness & reimagine tea!

Bird & Blend was set up & is run by Krisi & Mike, who met whilst studying Politics (of all things!) at university. Building Bird & Blend from scratch while staying true to their ethos & values has been Krisi & Mike’s passion for over 10 years.

From the early days of packing tea in their bedroom & attending markets, to now, with an awesome team, multiple retail stores & a thriving international online store, Bird & Blend is leading the way in tea innovation in the UK.

Bird & Blend has grown out of a core belief in doing business in a better way. This is ultimately our why - it’s why we are in business & what we believe in. Of course, we want to welcome as many people as possible into our Magical World of Tea but fundamentally it’s what we care about other than great tea that makes us magical.

You can read heaps more information about us and our mission here:https://www.birdandblendtea.com/pages/our-story

What would our IT & Systems Manager role look like?

We're not gonna lie, we're growing rapidly and we need a tech bod who is excited by solving problems & happy to get stuck in. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and are passionate about optimising IT operations, we want to hear from you!

Our IT & Systems Manager will manage the technology that allows the business to function effectively. They will be responsible for administering and being the central control point for key business systems databases.

This is a new role within the business so there is bags of room for growth within this position. You will work closely with stakeholders across the business, but will fall largely within our digital and operations teams. This is a full time role based at our Worthing hub (aka The Nest!) but there is potential for some remote working. 

In terms of tech stack, we currently use a variety of systems including Shopify, many apps that power front end functionality such as subscriptions, reporting & bundling, plus stock management and systems such as Peoplevox and Katana (including APIs which connect these). We also have retail based point of sale systems (Revel) and will be rolling out loyalty, in store experience and other app based projects over the coming years. We use various systems for our business administration such as G Suite & drive and various IT equipment & systems across the business also.

What are the responsibilities?

• As our IT & Systems Manager your main responsibility is the operational performance of our IT systems and processes, ensuring seamless service levels for our stores, website & warehouse teams. Not just maintaining but also furthering these processes and recognising opportunities for future growth. You'll be at the forefront of driving IT performance and KPIs for the business
• You will be the first point of contact for team members with any issues across any of our systems or IT and problem solve, either independently or in collaboration with agencies, contractors and software support teams (external) to resolve. 
• You will be responsible for maintaining our databases to ensure data integrity and effective feeds into all systems.
• From SKU creation through to live product implementation you will wrap your arms around our data, ensuring it is in line with official product specification, centralised and maintained as such. 
• You will working closely with the D2C digital team and the B2B team to provide support on development, growth & front end projects. 
• You will be responsible for managing IT capacity, diagnosing and resolving onsite IT issues, implementing process improvements, and providing regular performance reporting to stakeholders.
• You will have all access control, security & safety of our IT & systems across the business. 
• You'll collaborate with logistics stakeholders to minimise operational impact and continually improve IT service and performance.

What we’re looking for from you.

• Advanced experience and knowledge of eCommerce APIs, network security & infrastructure, ERP, desktop systems and applications, mobile device management.
• Experience managing & liaising with 3rd party IT service providers.
• Experience managing business improvement initiatives.
• Proven experience in a similar role (IT Infrastructure Manager, System Administrator, Infrastructure Lead) for a minimum of three years.
• Experience in a similar industry (Retail, FMCG) is desirable but not essential.
• Strong functional knowledge of all components in the overall IT landscape including networks, cloud and hosting technologies, servers, end-user-devices, operating systems, and applications.
• Strong understanding of IT and Cyber Security including technologies, principles, processes and compliance

Does this sound like you?

• Interested in, and a great level of knowledge & comfort with IT
• A fast learner and is able to self develop 
• Enjoys problem solving
• Able to work both independently and with team members at all levels
• Able to effectively manage your own time and prioritise workload accordingly
• Has heaps of good ideas and wants to support with moving our growing business forwards
• Is an excellent communicator, plate spinner and fire fighter!

Are there any perks?

Of course there are, for all the hard work you will get:

• Friendly and supportive team culture: Enjoy working alongside a team of like-minded individuals who value collaboration, camaraderie, and fun in the workplace.
• Membership of company pension scheme (if applicable): Secure your financial future with enrollment in a company-sponsored pension scheme, ensuring peace of mind and financial stability in retirement.
• Holiday accrual that grows with loyalty: Enjoy 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays ) as a token of appreciation for your dedication and loyalty to the organisation, providing you with ample opportunities for rest and relaxation. This entitlement increases with service.
• Life Insurance & Income Protection: providing financial security and peace of mind for you and your families.
• Health Cash Plan: after one year service we will enrol you into our Health Cash Plan which will allow you to claim back money for dental, optical, prescription charges etc. Specific information on this scheme will be shared with you.
• Life Happens Leave: Sometimes life can throw unexpected challenges our way, we offer paid leave specifically dedicated to these situations to provide employees with the time and space needed.
• Complimentary drinks and snacks: Stay refreshed and energised throughout the day with a variety of free drinks and snacks provided in the office.
• Monthly tea allowance and generous staff discount: Indulge in your favourite teas while benefiting from a discount on company products, fostering a culture of enjoyment and appreciation.
• Employee Assistance Programme: Access confidential and professional mental health support services to prioritise your well-being and address any personal or work-related challenges.
• Bike to Work and Electric Vehicle Schemes: Take advantage of a sustainable transportation option, contribute to environmental conservation, and benefit from tax-efficient savings.
• Paid volunteer days: Make a positive impact in our community by participating in volunteer activities during dedicated paid volunteer days, fostering a culture of corporate social responsibility and giving back.
• Dog-friendly office: Bring your furry friend to work and enjoy a pet-friendly environment that promotes work-life balance and companionship.
• We also have enhanced family friendly policies, offer flexible working and are always open to discussing your individual circumstances!

Now what? 

All that's left to do is grab yourself a brew and hit apply! 

Don't forget to add a covering letter - we would love to hear a little more about you and your reasons for applying (that's the best bit!)

To get some support and top tips for creating your cover letter, click here: Cover letter top tips!

Applications without a covering letter are not considered. 

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all, applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

PS, We are also a living wage employer - Wahey!