Head of Information Technology

Vikram Solar; Chennai District; On-site; INR 5,000,000 - 7,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading solar manufacturing company is seeking a Head – IT MES to spearhead the design and implementation of Manufacturing Execution Systems. This role involves leading digital transformation initiatives across manufacturing operations, ensuring effective integration with enterprise systems like SAP. The ideal candidate will have experience managing significant IT budgets and a strong background in project management methodologies. Join us in driving innovation and operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading MES projects.
• Experience with Industry 4.0 and digital factory concepts.
• Strong project management skills in Agile/Waterfall methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead the MES roadmap aligned with business strategy.
• Implement predictive maintenance to improve manufacturing KPIs.
• Manage large IT budgets and ensure compliance.

Skills

Digital transformation leadership

MES implementation

Integration with enterprise systems

Cloud technologies

AI-based insights

Tools

SAP (S/4 HANA)

PLM

LIMS

WMS

Job description

Job Description: Head – IT MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems)

Role Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Head – IT MES to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of Manufacturing Execution Systems across large-scale manufacturing operations (solar / battery / high-tech manufacturing). The role will drive digital transformation across shop-floor systems, enabling real-time visibility, process automation, and Industry 4.0 integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and implement the MES roadmap aligned with business and manufacturing strategy
• Lead end-to-end digital transformation initiatives across manufacturing (Industry 4.0, Smart Factory)
• Collaborate with CXOs and plant leadership to build future-ready digital factories
• Integrate MES with enterprise systems like SAP (S/4 HANA), PLM, LIMS, WMS

2. MES Implementation & Deployment

• Lead greenfield and brownfield MES implementations
• Manage deployment of:
• Production tracking systems
• Quality & compliance tracking systems
• Workflow and traceability systems
• Ensure on-time, within-budget delivery of MES projects
• Drive standardization of manufacturing processes across plants
• Architect integration between:
• Enable real-time data flow and analytics for production optimization
• Lead adoption of Cloud, SaaS, and Low-Code/No-Code platforms

4. Operational Excellence & Performance Improvement

• Improve manufacturing KPIs:
• OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness)
• Yield improvement
• Downtime reduction
• Cycle time optimization
• Implement predictive maintenance and AI-based insights

5. IT Governance & Project Management

• Establish IT governance frameworks, policies, and SOPs
• Manage large IT budgets (₹50+ Cr scale preferred)
• Lead multiple concurrent high-value projects with structured methodologies (Agile/Waterfall)
• Ensure risk mitigation, compliance, and audit readiness
• Work closely with:
• Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain teams
• External technology partners and system integrators
• Build and manage a strong vendor ecosystem
• Drive cross-functional collaboration for seamless execution
• Build and lead high-performing IT & MES teams
• Develop internal capabilities in MES, Industry 4.0, and automation
• Foster a culture of innovation, ownership, and continuous improvement