Business Systems Manager

Our client is a major player in the defence and advanced technology sector, the kind of organisation where the work you do genuinely matters, supporting national security and cutting-edge programmes across the globe. This isn't a business coasting along; they're growing, investing, and building out new capability. You'd be joining a forward-thinking IT leadership team at a genuinely exciting moment. The Business Systems team you'll lead is newly formed, which means you get to shape it; the people, the processes, the roadmap. You'll sit at the intersection of technology and business strategy, partnering with stakeholders across multiple countries and driving real change across a complex enterprise applications landscape. To be considered, you'll need proven experience in senior applications management or IT leadership, with strong hands-on knowledge of enterprise ecosystems; think ERP, PLM, BI, SaaS platforms, ServiceNow, Microsoft 365, or similar. You'll know how to lead teams, manage vendors, and get things done in a matrixed organisation. A degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field is expected.

Working Patterns and location – Hybrid, 3 days on site per week with 25% international travel.

·        Define and deliver a strategic roadmap for enterprise applications aligned to business and technology priorities.

·        Lead end-to-end application lifecycle including selection, implementation, upgrades, optimisation, and retirement.

·        Ensure reliability, availability, and performance of critical systems through best-practice support and incident management.

·        Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team of application specialists internationally.

·        Partner with business units, IT service lines, and external vendors to deliver value-driven solutions.

·        Embed governance, security, and compliance standards across all enterprise applications.

·        Proven experience in senior applications management or IT leadership roles.

·        Strong technical knowledge across enterprise ecosystems such as ERP, PLM, BI, or SaaS platforms.

·        Hands-on experience with tools such as ServiceNow, Microsoft 365, SharePoint, or Atlassian products.

·        Demonstrated ability to lead teams and influence across matrixed organisations.

·        Strong stakeholder engagement and vendor management experience in complex environments.

·        Solid project delivery capability with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.

·        Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related discipline.

The client would also like to see some of the below, but this is not essential:

·        Experience working in manufacturing, engineering, or production environments.

·        Familiarity with secure or classified working environments.

·        Experience managing applications or teams across multi-country operations.

·        Flexible and hybrid working

·        Competitive salary and bonus scheme

·        Private healthcare and pension benefits

·        Enhanced family leave policies

·        Holiday purchase scheme

·        Wellbeing and mental health support

·        Employee assistance programme

·        Discounts and reward platform

·        Volunteering opportunities

·        Recognition and career development programme

Our client is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.

Part-time opportunities/flexible working is available to suit individual needs.

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