IT Applications Manager

As IT Applications Manager, you play a pivotal role in aligning business objectives with technology solutions across Astara Western Europe. You lead a team of application specialists and work closely with business stakeholders to ensure our application landscape supports operational excellence, innovation and growth. You translate business requirements into sustainable IT solutions, drive application-related projects, manage strategic partnerships and ensure application support remains efficient and business focused.

A snapshot of your responsibilities

• You lead, coach and develop a team of application specialists, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• You partner with business stakeholders to understand their needs and translate them into sustainable IT solutions aligned with corporate standards.
• You define and execute the IT applications strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives and Astara’s digital roadmap.
• You manage IT application projects from concept to implementation, ensuring successful delivery in terms of scope, quality, timing and budget.
• You drive change management and facilitate effective communication between business stakeholders, IT teams and external partners.
• You manage relationships with software vendors, consultants and solution providers to ensure optimal service delivery.
• You own the applications budget, forecast future investments and continuously identify opportunities to optimize costs and processes.
• You oversee application support, governance and continuous improvement, ensuring business continuity, innovation and user satisfaction.

• Master’s degree in IT, Business Administration or equivalent through experience.
• At least 10 years of experience in IT applications, project management and/or people leadership.
• Strong experience with enterprise applications, including ERP and CRM environments.
• Solid understanding of modern IT technologies, project methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, SAFe) and ITIL processes.
• An inspirational people manager with strong coaching, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Fluent in Dutch and English; knowledge of French and/or German is considered a plus.

• A key leadership role with broad impact across multiple departments and business processes.
• The opportunity to shape the future IT applications landscape of a growing international mobility group.
• Ownership of strategic projects and digital transformation initiatives.
• Collaboration with regional and global teams within Astara.
• A dynamic environment where innovation, entrepreneurship and continuous improvement are encouraged.
• A competitive salary package aligned with your experience.

Astara Western Europe NV is part of the international Astara Group, focused on open, sustainable and digital mobility. In a rapidly evolving automotive industry driven by digitalization and new mobility models, Astara develops its own digital ecosystem to support business growth and dealer excellence across Europe.

Astara Western Europe is the proud importer of Hyundai, Suzuki, KGM, and Isuzu across multiple European markets. Our operations are supported by the Astara Platform, the digital backbone connecting business teams, dealers and partners.