IT Business Applications Manager

The Context

Our client is a rapidly growing company and a leader in its sector. To support its ongoing expansion, we are seeking a passionate and forward-thinking <>IT Business Applications Manager, ready to make an impact in a dynamic and challenging environment.

Reporting Line

Finance Director (responsible for IT oversight)

Location

Alessandria - Multi-site environment (potential projects in Spain and Portugal)

Role Overview

The position reports directly to the Finance Director, who also supervises the IT area.

The role has a dual objective:

• Act as the IT point of contact for business functions, with an initial focus on Operations and a secondary focus on Finance, translating business needs into effective technology solutions.
• Lead strategic IT projects as Project Manager, with a strong emphasis on the stabilization and optimization of the Microsoft Business Central ERP system in a post-implementation phase, within a multi-site context and with potential international rollouts.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management (ERP)

• Lead the post‑go‑live management of Microsoft Business Central.
• Coordinate external vendors (for development and ticketing) and business key users.
• Oversee issue resolution, activity prioritization, and adherence to deadlines.

Business Partnership

• Build solid relationships with Operations and Finance leaders.
• Serve as the primary contact for gathering and analyzing business requirements, optimizing processes, and providing timely feedback.

Functional Analysis

• Formalize business requirements and constructively challenge requests to identify efficient solutions.
• Emphasize planning, organization, and clear communication to reduce possible internal friction and frustrations (in the face of changes).

M&A System Integration

• Support system integration initiatives for acquired companies, including potential migration to Business Central (currently on hold).
• Ensure system harmonization within international environments.

Application Management

• Oversee the application portfolio (ERP, reporting, infrastructure).
• Propose system evolutions in collaboration with the IT team and external partners, including those supporting logistics and foreign subsidiaries.

Change Management

• Facilitate adoption of new processes and platforms.
• Manage relational and psychological aspects of change, including regular demand meetings with key users to strengthen IT’s credibility and reliability.

Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics.
• Hybrid Background: 8–10 years of experience in similar roles (IT Project Manager or equivalent), combining technical IT skills with a solid understanding of business processes; experience in manufacturing or logistics environments preferred. Consulting backgrounds also considered.
• Process Knowledge: Strong understanding of Operations flows (production, logistics, supply chain) and Finance processes. Ability to manage and overcome potential inefficiencies and project delays.
• ERP Project Management: Proven experience in complex post‑implementation ERP projects.
• Preferred knowledge of Microsoft Business Central (or Navision) architecture and logic.
• Experience with SAP or other ERPs may be considered if paired with strong project management expertise.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with particular attention to managing relationships with global clients.
• Problem‑solving abilities and conflict‑management skills.
• Results‑oriented mindset and ability to work independently, with strong multi‑tasking capabilities and the capacity to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Fluent English proficiency.