Overview:

Our client, a prominent industry association representing over 9,000 member companies in the Consumer Goods, Retail, and Services sectors, is seeking an IT Digital Solutions Manager. This role involves leading the IT and Digital Solutions team to ensure the efficient delivery of infrastructure, applications, and support systems that align with the organization’s strategic objectives. This position focuses on managing technology to support member companies and enhance operational excellence.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership and Coordination:

• Develop and align IT strategies with the organisational goals of GS1 South Africa and the company
• Lead IT infrastructure, digital transformation initiatives, and operational projects, ensuring alignment with member and organisational requirements
• Establish strong collaborative relationships with GS1 Global Office, external vendors, and internal stakeholders

Technical Management:

• Oversee day-to-day IT operations, ensuring smooth functionality across infrastructure, software, and applications
• Design and implement robust technical solutions that are scalable and aligned with best practices
• Maintain and manage websites, databases, and integrations to support organizational processes effectively

Operational Excellence:

• Monitor, prioritize, and manage multiple IT projects simultaneously, ensuring adherence to schedules and budgets
• Drive continuous improvement by introducing IT best practices, processes, and performance metrics
• Establish and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for solution development, validation, and support

Team and Vendor Management:

• Lead and manage the internal IT team and external service providers, ensuring effective delivery of services
• Build relationships with technology vendors and outsourced providers to secure optimal performance and service

Communication and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Act as a key communicator of IT initiatives, changes, and advancements to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment
• Foster strong working relationships with GS1 Global Office, leveraging expertise to enhance local IT solutions

Required Experience:

• At least 5 years of IT leadership experience, with a focus on not-for-profit or membership-based organizations preferred
• Expertise in IT infrastructure, digital transformation, and software development
• Experience with supply chain standards and the GS1 system is a distinct advantage
• Proven knowledge of the Microsoft ecosystem, particularly Dynamics CE/CRM, and website management

Technical skills:

• Strong understanding of database integration (internal and external) and related requirements
• Proficiency in designing scalable and comprehensive technical solutions
• Practical knowledge of IT governance, security, and compliance

Leadership and Project Management:

• Excellent leadership abilities, with a pragmatic and analytical approach to problem- solving
• Proven project management skills, ensuring successful implementation within constraints
• Ability to motivate, inspire, and manage diverse teams effectively

Additional requirements:

• A degree or equivalent qualification in IT or related fields
• Flexibility to travel as required
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• A proactive, highly motivated, and adaptable individual