Introduction

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.

Key responsibilities

• 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.

Skills & experience

• 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.

Additional benefits

• 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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You will be required to hold a minimum of SC Clearance. If you do not hold an active SC Clearance, please familiarise yourself with the vetting process before applying.

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