IT Manager (Manufacturing | SAP Specialist)

Different Technologies Pty Ltd.; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 900 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing technology company in South Africa is seeking an experienced IT Manager to oversee IT systems and SAP operations. This role involves strategic oversight, leading IT teams, and driving digital transformation efforts. Candidates should have extensive experience in manufacturing IT environments and a strong background in SAP. The position offers a hybrid work environment and opportunities for direct involvement in strategic projects.

Benefits

Opportunities for career growth

Involvement in strategic projects

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Minimum 7–10 years IT experience, with at least 5 years in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong SAP functional and technical background.
• Experience managing IT teams and overseeing IT environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the company’s IT strategy.
• Oversee SAP system operations and enhancements.
• Manage the full IT infrastructure and ensure high system uptime.

Skills

SAP functional knowledge

Leadership

Problem-solving

Analytical mindset

Education

Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field

Tools

SAP

Power BI

Job description

IT Manager (Manufacturing | SAP Specialist)

Permanent I Vereniging I Hybrid

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced IT Manager with a proven background in manufacturing operations and extensive hands‑on experience in SAP (both functional and technical). The successful candidate will be responsible for the strategic oversight, management, and continuous improvement of the company’s IT systems, infrastructure, and SAP environment.

This leadership role requires a proactive, solutions‑driven individual who can align technology initiatives with business goals, support end‑to‑end manufacturing processes, and ensure robust system availability and security.

Key Responsibilities

1. IT Strategy & Leadership

• Develop, implement, and maintain the company’s IT strategy in alignment with business priorities.
• Lead and mentor the internal IT team, ensuring high performance, clear KPIs, and ongoing skills development.
• Collaborate with senior management to drive digital transformation and optimize technology adoption.

2. SAP Management (Core Requirement)

• Oversee the operation, support, and enhancement of SAP systems (ECC or S/4HANA, depending on environment).
• Provide functional expertise across core manufacturing modules such as PP, MM, QM, PM, SD, FI/CO.
• Manage SAP configuration changes, system improvements, and testing activities.
• Troubleshoot and resolve SAP technical and functional issues in collaboration with integration partners.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing workflows, planning, quality, and reporting.

3. IT Infrastructure & Systems Management

• Manage the full IT landscape including servers, networks, cybersecurity, backup systems, and hardware.
• Ensure high system uptime and reliable on‑site support for production and operational teams.
• Oversee ERP integrations, MES systems, barcoding/scanning systems, and factory automation interfaces.
• Implement best‑practice cybersecurity policies and disaster recovery procedures.

4. Project Management

• Lead IT and SAP‑related projects from planning through execution and change management.
• Work cross‑functionally with manufacturing, supply chain, finance, and quality teams to support process optimization.
• Coordinate with vendors, consultants, and service providers to ensure effective delivery and adherence to SLAs.

5. User Support & Training

• Provide hands‑on support to end‑users across all departments.
• Oversee SAP user administration, role management, and process documentation.
• Deliver training and promote user adoption of new technologies and system features.

Required Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.

Experience

• Minimum 7–10 years IT experience, with at least 5 years in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong SAP functional and technical background (configuration, troubleshooting, process flows).
• Experience managing IT teams and overseeing company‑wide IT environments.
• Proven track record delivering technology or ERP‑related projects in manufacturing.

Technical Skills

• Deep knowledge of SAP modules: PP, MM, QM, PM, plus exposure to SD and FI/CO.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes such as production planning, shop‑floor execution, quality management, and inventory control.
• Solid understanding of IT infrastructure architecture (servers, networking, cloud, cybersecurity).
• Knowledge of MES systems, plant automation integration, and data/reporting tools (e.g., Power BI) is advantageous.

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Analytical mindset and problem‑solving capabilities.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Highly organised, proactive, and committed to continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to shape and modernise the IT landscape in a growing manufacturing business.
• Direct involvement in strategic projects across production, supply chain, and operations.
• On‑site environment that values teamwork, accountability, and innovation.