A rare opportunity exists for an accomplished technology leader to step into a Director-level role with responsibility for the enterprise applications portfolio. This position balances strategy and delivery, ensuring business systems are reliable, secure, and value-adding while driving efficiency, innovation, and transformation across a large and complex organisation.

The Role

As Group Manager - Applications, you will define and execute the applications strategy and roadmap, spanning ERP, business systems, and enterprise-wide applications. You will oversee lifecycle management, governance, and optimisation of applications, while leading a specialist team and collaborating with executives and site-based stakeholders to align systems with organisational goals.

This is both a strategic and operational role, requiring the ability to shape future direction while ensuring day-to-day performance, security, and compliance of critical applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver the applications strategy and multi-year roadmap aligned to business priorities
• Manage the full lifecycle of enterprise applications, including rationalisation and optimisation
• Ensure reliability, performance, and security of critical systems across the enterprise
• Lead application projects and change programs to successful delivery
• Oversee governance, compliance, and data security across the portfolio
• Build strong relationships with senior executives and site leaders, ensuring systems meet business needs
• Manage vendors, contracts, and implementation partners to maximise value and quality
• Identify opportunities for process automation, digital transformation, and user experience improvements
• Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing Applications team

About You

• Extensive leadership experience managing enterprise applications portfolios in complex organisations
• Proven success developing applications strategies and delivering transformation initiatives
• Strong background in ERP and business systems, with expertise in lifecycle management and optimisation
• Skilled in engaging stakeholders across executive and operational levels
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams
• Experience managing vendors, budgets, and application landscapes across multiple sites
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills

What's on Offer

• A senior leadership role with accountability and visibility across the enterprise
• Full ownership of the applications strategy, portfolio, and delivery roadmap
• Opportunity to uplift maturity, streamline systems, and drive meaningful innovation
• Lead and develop a specialist team while working closely with executives and site leaders