ERP Transformation Director

About the Company: Our Client is a leading global enterprise specialising in niche, high tech manufacturing. With a strong presence across multiple countries, they are committed to driving innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and delivering value to their clients. As part of their continued growth and commitment to excellence, they are embarking on a major ERP transformation programme to streamline operations and support their wider digital transformation journey. About the Role: We are seeking an experienced and visionary ERP Transformation Programme Director to lead the global ERP transformation initiative. This role is critical to ensuring the successful delivery of the ERP programme, which is integral to the client's broader digital transformation strategy. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in leading large-scale ERP implementations and extensive experience as a senior stakeholder in digital transformation projects. Responsibilities: Programme Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership for the entire ERP transformation programme, ensuring alignment with the company’s overall digital transformation goals. Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of the ERP programme, managing scope, budget, timelines, and resources. Lead a multidisciplinary team, including project managers, business analysts, IT specialists, and third-party vendors, to achieve programme objectives. Stakeholder Management: Engage and collaborate with senior executives, including the CIO, CFO, and business unit leaders, to ensure alignment and buy-in for the ERP transformation. Act as the primary point of contact for all programme-related communications, providing regular updates on progress, risks, and issues. Manage relationships with external partners and vendors, ensuring they deliver according to contractual agreements and quality standards. Strategic Planning and Execution: Develop and implement a comprehensive ERP transformation strategy that supports the company’s business objectives and future growth. Identify and mitigate risks throughout the programme lifecycle, ensuring that contingency plans are in place to address potential issues. Ensure that the programme delivers measurable business benefits, including process efficiencies, cost savings, and enhanced data analytics capabilities. Change Management: Drive the change management strategy to ensure successful adoption of the new ERP system across the organization. Work closely with HR and communication teams to develop and execute training and communication plans that support the transition to the new ERP system. Address resistance to change by fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Financial Management: Develop and manage the programme budget, ensuring that all costs are tracked, controlled, and aligned with financial forecasts. Provide financial oversight, including cost-benefit analysis, to ensure the programme delivers value for money and meets ROI targets. Report on financial performance to senior management and the board, highlighting key financial metrics and any variances from the plan. Quality Assurance and Governance: Implement robust programme governance structures to ensure that all aspects of the ERP transformation are delivered to the highest standards. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies throughout the programme. Conduct regular reviews and audits of programme activities to ensure quality and adherence to agreed-upon standards. Qualifications: Experience: Minimum of 15 years of experience in IT or business transformation roles, with at least 10 years in a senior leadership position. Proven track record of leading large-scale ERP implementations (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics) in a global, multi-site organization. Significant experience as a senior stakeholder in digital transformation initiatives, with a deep understanding of how ERP systems integrate with broader digital strategies. Experience managing complex budgets, with a proven ability to deliver programmes on time and within budget. Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of ERP systems, including their architecture, modules, and integration capabilities. Knowledge of cloud-based ERP solutions and emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain as they relate to ERP systems. Familiarity with project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) and tools (e.g., MS Project, JIRA). Leadership and Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization. Experience in driving change management and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is preferred. Relevant certifications in project management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) are highly desirable. The client has multiple sites across Europe and would consider candidates to work in those locations.