Head of IT

Job Overview

The Head of IT at REC is responsible for overseeing the entire IT function, divided into IT Business Applications and IT Infrastructure, Network & Operations. This leadership role ensures that technology services are reliable, secure, and aligned with business objectives. The position involves defining IT strategy, directly managing the Business Applications team, and supervising the Senior Manager of IT Infrastructure & Operations. Collaboration with vendors for negotiations, project delivery, budget control, and ensuring IT security and governance to support manufacturing and digital initiatives is key.

IT Business Applications

• Manage the entire lifecycle of enterprise applications such as SAP, SFDC, HFM, Power BI, and SharePoint, including upgrades, enhancements, and ensuring SLA compliance.
• Oversee application vendors and system integrators to guarantee quality and value in deliveries.
• Collaborate closely with Functional Leads and BPOs to convert business needs into scalable and effective IT solutions.
• Effectively communicate IT application strategies, associated risks, and critical decisions to business stakeholders.

IT Infrastructure, Network & Operations

• Provide visionary leadership for IT Infrastructure and Operations, ensuring delivery responsibilities, service quality, and team performance accountability.
• Set and monitor KPIs and governance frameworks; approve infrastructure roadmaps, refresh plans, and major vendor engagements.
• Maintain a robust, secure IT infrastructure including servers, storage, virtualization, data centers, and networking (LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, firewall, VPN) to support continuous manufacturing operations.
• Manage endpoint environments, hybrid cloud solutions, and workplace technology effectively.
• Oversee IT service management practices ensuring incident, change, problem, and asset management are aligned with SLA standards.
• Own cybersecurity governance including access control, policy compliance, and audit preparedness.
• Maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans ensuring they are current, tested, and executable.

AI Transformation, Strategy & Governance

• Play a critical role in REC's AI transformation strategy by identifying and driving AI and automation initiatives across multiple business domains such as manufacturing, finance, sales, and operations.
• Assess and implement AI technologies including generative AI, machine learning, and intelligent process automation to achieve measurable improvements.
• Promote AI literacy and integration across business functions by collaborating with leaders to embed AI-driven operations.
• Establish and enforce responsible AI governance, encompassing data management, ethics, and risk mitigation.

Strategy & Governance

• Create and maintain IT policies, lead periodic IT audits, and ensure adherence to regulatory and security standards.
• Develop and execute an IT vision and roadmap balancing operational efficiency with digital and AI-enabled transformation ambitions.
• Prepare and deliver business cases for strategic technology investments to executive leadership and the CFO.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, Engineering, or Business; certifications such as SAP, ITIL, CISSP, PMP or cloud/AI platforms (Azure, AWS, Microsoft AI) are preferred.
• 12 to 15 years of comprehensive IT experience covering applications and infrastructure, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role, with proven expertise managing SAP environments and IT infrastructure.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and executive communication skills, with the ability to influence senior leadership and navigate multiple organizational levels.
• Experienced in leading multi-disciplinary IT teams, including talent development and fostering a high-performance culture.
• Proven capability in overseeing concurrent IT projects with full authority on scope, budgeting, timelines, and risk, and driving business case approvals.
• Previous experience as Head of IT or IT Director within manufacturing or industrial sectors, including SAP upgrade or S/4HANA migration experience.
• Hands-on involvement in AI or digital transformation initiatives such as generative AI, intelligent automation, and data analytics platform deployment; familiarity with Industry 4.0, cloud adoption, and smart factory concepts.
• Certifications in network, cloud, or security management are highly desirable.