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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # IT Applications Director - **Company:** Ardena - **Location:** Oss, Netherlands - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Artificial Intelligence, Amazon Web Services, Applications Architecture, Application Lifecycle Management, Software Applications, Application Portfolio Management, Application Services, Microsoft Azure, Software as a Service, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security, Data Governance, Middleware, IT Management, Laboratory Information Management Systems, Microsoft Dynamics, Regression Testing, System Testing, Strategies of Testing, Iq/oq/pq, Information Security Management System, Enterprise Software Applications, Information Technology, Microsoft Business Central, Data Management, GXP - **Published:** June 24, 2026 - **Apply:** https://nl.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=d4f6feb9ee947209 ## About the Role Do you have experience in SaaS?, * 10+ years of experience in IT, with at least 5 years in an application management or IT leadership role. * Proven experience delivering enterprise application programmes in a life science, pharmaceutical, or comparably regulated environment (GxP, 21 CFR Part 11, Annex 11). * Familiarity with information security standards and frameworks, including ISO 27001 (ISMS); experience operating in an ISO 27001-certified or equivalent environment is a plus. * Solid experience with system validation and testing methodologies, including IQ/OQ/PQ, UAT, and regression testing; knowledge of GAMP 5 risk-based approaches is strongly preferred. * Strong knowledge of ERP systems (preferably Microsoft Dynamics Business Central), LIMS, QMS, and/or MES platforms. * Track record of delivering complex application implementations and modernisation programmes on time and within budget. * Solid understanding of application architecture, integration patterns (API, middleware), and data management principles. * Experience with cloud platforms (Microsoft Azure, AWS, or equivalent) and SaaS application management. * Demonstrated people leadership skills, with a track record of building and developing high-performing, cross-functional teams. * Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills - able to bridge technical and business perspectives at all levels. * Familiarity with ITIL service management practices. * Experience in a CDMO or contract services environment is a strong plus. * Fluency in English; proficiency in Dutch, German, or Spanish is an advantage. * Willing and able to travel to several locations to support and work with the local teams (Travel 25% of the time.) ## Description In this role, you will report directly to the Chief Information Officer and take ownership of Ardena's full application portfolio: spanning quality, manufacturing, laboratory, commercial, and corporate systems. You will work closely with business unit leaders, system owners, and IT teams across our international sites to ensure applications deliver maximum value, remain fully compliant with regulatory requirements, and support Ardena's continued growth., Application Portfolio & Strategy * Own and evolve Ardena's application portfolio strategy, covering ERP, LIMS, QMS, MES, CRM, and other business-critical platforms. * Partner with business unit leaders to understand evolving needs and translate them into application roadmaps and investment plans. * Drive standardisation and harmonisation of applications across sites, reducing complexity while improving user experience. * Lead evaluation, delivery and adoption of application platforms aligned with Ardena's digital transformation objectives. Delivery & Lifecycle Management * Lead the selection, implementation, and lifecycle management of enterprise applications, from requirements gathering through go-live and continuous improvement. * Oversee application upgrades, migrations, and decommissioning programmes, ensuring minimal business disruption. * Define and maintain application architecture principles, integration standards, and data governance practices. * Collaborate with IT Infrastructure, IT Security, and the AI team to ensure a secure, scalable, and well-integrated application landscape. Compliance & Governance * Ensure all applications comply with GxP requirements (21 CFR Part 11, Annex 11), GDPR, ISO 27001, and relevant information security standards, Ardena's IT governance policies. * Maintain thorough system validation documentation and support audit and inspection readiness. * Manage change control, risk assessments, and periodic reviews for validated systems in line with regulatory expectations. * Define and oversee testing strategies for validated systems, including IQ/OQ/PQ protocols, UAT, and regression testing, applying a risk-based approach in line with GAMP 5 principles. Team & Vendor Management * Lead and develop a team of application managers, business analysts, and support specialists across sites. * Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and SLAs for application services and software licences. * Manage the IT Applications budget, ensuring optimal return on investment and alignment with business priorities. * Contribute to the broader IT strategy and represent IT Applications in leadership forums. ## Related Videos - [Blueprints for Success: Steering a Global Data & AI Architecture](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1577-blueprints-for-success-steering-a-global-data-ai-architecture) - [Developer’s Perspective: Overview of the Tezos Blockchain Ecosystem](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/237-developer-s-perspective-overview-of-the-tezos-blockchain-ecosystem) - [Agile work at CARIAD – Creating a customer web application for controlling the vehicle ](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/200-agile-work-at-cariad-creating-a-customer-web-application-for-controlling-the-vehicle) - [Exploring BOS: The Blockchain Operating System by NEAR Protocol](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/781-exploring-bos-the-blockchain-operating-system-by-near-protocol) - [Full-stack role-based authorization in 45 minutes](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/312-full-stack-role-based-authorization-in-45-minutes) - [Navigating the Corporate Jungle: Life as a Developer in a large Company](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/621-navigating-the-corporate-jungle-life-as-a-developer-in-a-large-company) ## Related Articles - [How to land a developer job in Amsterdam](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/36-how-to-land-a-developer-job-in-amsterdam) - [Best Companies in the Netherlands: Top 25 Companies in 2023 ](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/193-best-companies-in-the-netherlands-top-25-companies-in-2023) - [The Netherlands – Europe’s powerhouse for software development?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/31-the-netherlands-europe-s-powerhouse-for-software-development) - [How to Find Tech Jobs in Amsterdam](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/279-how-to-find-tech-jobs-in-amsterdam) - [Software Developer Salary in The Netherlands [2023]](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/217-software-developer-salary-in-the-netherlands-2023) - [The Most Popular IT Jobs on the Market](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/376-the-most-popular-it-jobs-on-the-market)