IT Application Manager

An experienced and strategic Applications Manager is responsible for leading the application support and development function. As a key member of the IT leadership team, this role manages and supervises application team members while overseeing the performance, stability, and continuous improvement of enterprise systems, including Oracle EBS and related platforms.

The Applications Manager plays a critical role in coordinating team priorities, supporting business operations, and ensuring the effective delivery of application services across the organization. This role partners closely with cross-functional IT teams and business stakeholders to enhance the application ecosystem and align technology solutions with organizational goals.

As a leader within this organization, they are to adhere to the Nifco NA Leadership Commitment as stated; “I set the standard by prioritizing Safety, Quality, and Culture. As a steward of WH2, it is my responsibility to model these principles. My role requires that I build strong customer relationships and respond proactively to their needs; lead change initiatives to improve efficiency and adaptability; promote collaboration, transparency and accountability across the organization; and develop my team members through mentorship and constructive feedback. By striving to lead in this manner, I position the organization for sustainable growth and profitability.”

Key Responsibilities:

All Levels:

Application Leadership & Strategy

• Serve as a key advisor to IT staff and business stakeholders on enterprise application capabilities and improvements
• Align application services and enhancements with business objectives and operational needs
• Partner with other IT functions to deliver scalable, reliable, and secure solutions
• Support continuous improvement of the application ecosystem within Nifco

Application Support & Delivery

• Oversee the configuration, support, and troubleshooting of Oracle EBS, ECM, and related systems
• Ensure timely resolution of application issues and system incidents
• Manage and prioritize team workload to meet business demands and deadlines
• Support system upgrades, patches, and enhancements

Technical Expertise & Systems Management

• Provide guidance on Oracle database structure, APIs, and troubleshooting methodologies
• Oversee development and maintenance of SQL queries, scripts, and Oracle Forms
• Support integration of applications across systems and platforms
• Ensure proper documentation, including SOPs and technical procedures

Business Systems & Process Support

• Collaborate with business units (e.g., manufacturing, inventory, supply chain) to support system functionality
• Assist in gathering requirements and translating them into technical solutions
• Support planning systems such as ASCP and other enterprise tools as applicable
• Contribute to process improvements through system optimization

Quality, Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure application changes follow established governance and change control processes
• Support system validation, testing, and documentation standards
• Identify system risks and implement mitigation strategies
• Promote best practices in application security, performance, and data integrity

Customer & Site Support

• Provide support to users across multiple Nifco locations
• Collaborate with plant teams to resolve system-related issues impacting operations
• Travel as needed to support system implementations and issue resolution

People Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, and develop application team members
• Establish team goals, manage performance, and support career development
• Foster a positive, collaborative IT culture aligned with Nifco values
• Manage team priorities, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives

Applications Manager - Level I

• Manages day-to-day application support and operations
• Provides technical guidance and support to team members
• Supports system maintenance, enhancements, and issue resolution
• Works closely with business teams to address operational needs
• Focuses on building leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills

Senior Applications Manager - Level II

• Acts as a strategic advisor on application architecture and system improvements
• Leads cross-functional initiatives involving multiple IT and business teams
• Oversees major system implementations and upgrades
• Drives process improvements and optimization across enterprise applications
• Develops team capabilities and succession planning

Regional Applications Manager - Level III

• Defines long-term application strategy aligned with business growth
• Provides leadership across multiple sites or regions
• Oversees enterprise-wide systems and integration strategy
• Advises executive leadership on technology direction and investments
• Champions innovation, standardization, and best practices across IT systems, * Describe your experience integrating Oracle with MES or shop floor systems.
• How do you manage Oracle manufacturing master data (BOMs, routings, item masters), and how do you prevent data integrity issues across plants?
• How do you standardize Oracle processes across multiple plants while still allowing for necessary local flexibility? and keep them updated?
• How do you prioritize Oracle enhancements or projects when balancing plant demands, corporate IT strategy, and limited resources?

Do you have experience in Senior leadership?, Do you have a Bachelor’s degree?, * Level I: 8-10 years of application support and development experience with initial leadership responsibilities

• Level II: 10+ years of progressive experience with significant team leadership and project ownership
• Level III: 12+ years of experience with multi-site or enterprise-level leadership

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field preferred
• Equivalent combination of education and 10+ years of relevant experience will be considered

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of Oracle EBS, ECM, and related technologies
• Proficiency in SQL, Oracle Forms, and scripting
• Understanding of manufacturing and inventory systems
• Experience with ASCP, Financials, and Infor WMS preferred
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proven leadership and team development capabilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel as needed

Pulled from the full job description

• Tuition reimbursement
• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Health savings account, * 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Nifco America, Corp. is a leading global supplier of plastic fasteners, serving diverse industries such as automotive, electronics, telecommunications, home appliances, office equipment, and fashion. We specialize in designing and manufacturing custom injection-molded plastic components and assemblies to meet our clients’ unique needs.