Director of Information Technology

The IT Director is responsible for defining and delivering the organisation’s IT strategy across a multi-site manufacturing and purchasing environment. The role ensures that IT systems, infrastructure, and digital capabilities support operational excellence, supply chain performance, and commercial growth.

This includes leadership of ERP transformation, software development, infrastructure and cloud environments, cybersecurity, network operations, user support services, and governance, risk, and compliance.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Define and execute the IT strategy aligned with business and operational objectives.
• Act as a key advisor to the executive team on digital transformation, system architecture, and emerging technologies.
• Lead and develop the IT organisation, including internal teams and external partners.
• Manage IT budgets, investments, and vendor relationships.

Software, Applications & Development

• Own the enterprise application landscape, including ERP, MES, and supporting systems.
• Lead ERP transformation/replacement programmes, from requirements definition through to implementation and optimisation.
• Drive business requirements analysis and translate operational needs into scalable IT solutions.
• Oversee development activities, integrations, and system enhancements.
• Identify and deploy emerging technologies, including AI-driven analytics, automation, and digital workflows.
• Ensure alignment between IT systems and manufacturing, supply chain, and commercial processes.

Infrastructure, Hardware & Cloud

• Ensure robust, scalable, and cost-effective IT infrastructure across all locations.
• Lead the transition to modern cloud-based platforms and hybrid architectures.
• Oversee lifecycle management of hardware assets, data centres, and end-user computing.
• Ensure high availability, disaster recovery, and business continuity capability.

IT Security & Cybersecurity

• Define and enforce IT security policies across applications, infrastructure, and networks.
• Lead cybersecurity strategy, including threat detection, vulnerability management, and incident response.
• Ensure protection of critical manufacturing systems and intellectual property.
• Maintain compliance with relevant standards (e.g. ISO, GDPR, industry-specific requirements).

Network & Connectivity

• Manage and optimise global network infrastructure across manufacturing, logistics, and office environments.
• Ensure secure, reliable connectivity between sites, cloud platforms, customers, and suppliers.
• Support industrial connectivity requirements (e.g. shopfloor systems, IoT, automation).

User Support & Service Delivery

• Own IT service management, including helpdesk, ticketing, and support processes.
• Ensure efficient user support processes, follow-up, and approval workflows
• Define and monitor SLAs and KPIs for IT service delivery.
• Drive a strong user experience and adoption of IT tools across the organisation.
• Establish strong IT governance frameworks, policies, and standards.
• Ensure alignment with corporate governance and audit requirements.
• Manage IT risk, including system resilience, data security, and third-party dependencies.
• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and internal standards.

Key Interfaces

• Executive Leadership Team (Operations, Finance, Supply Chain, Sales)
• Manufacturing and Engineering teams
• External vendors, system integrators, and technology partners
• Regional and site IT teams

PERSON SPECIFICATION AND BACKGROUND

• Significant leadership experience in IT within a manufacturing or industrial environment
• Proven track record in ERP implementation or transformation programmes
• Strong understanding of:
• Enterprise applications (ERP/MES)
• Cloud platforms and infrastructure
• Cybersecurity frameworks
• IT service management
• Experience managing multi-site or international IT operations
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to link IT to business performance
• Experience with AI, automation, or advanced analytics in manufacturing
• Knowledge of legacy system transformation (e.g. AS/400, ERP migrations)
• Familiarity with regulated environments (ISO, GDPR, etc.)
• Experience with digital manufacturing / Industry 4.0 initiatives
• Strategic thinking with strong execution focus
• Ability to lead business transformation through technology
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Outputs / Success Measures

• Successful ERP transformation and system integration
• High system availability and secure IT environment
• Improved operational efficiency through digital solutions
• Strong governance, audit compliance, and risk management
• High user satisfaction and adoption of IT systems

• Significant leadership experience in IT within a manufacturing or industrial environment
• Proven track record in ERP implementation or transformation programmes
• Strong understanding of:
• Enterprise applications (ERP/MES)
• Cloud platforms and infrastructure
• Cybersecurity frameworks
• IT service management
• Experience managing multi-site or international IT operations
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to link IT to business performance
• Experience with AI, automation, or advanced analytics in manufacturing
• Knowledge of legacy system transformation (e.g. AS/400, ERP migrations)
• Familiarity with regulated environments (ISO, GDPR, etc.)
• Experience with digital manufacturing / Industry 4.0 initiatives
• Strategic thinking with strong execution focus
• Ability to lead business transformation through technology
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, * Successful ERP transformation and system integration
• High system availability and secure IT environment
• Improved operational efficiency through digital solutions
• Strong governance, audit compliance, and risk management
• High user satisfaction and adoption of IT systems