Head of Enterprise Applications & IT Operations
Location: Leeds (Hybrid/On-site as required)
About the Role
We are seeking a highly skilled and pragmatic technology leader to take ownership of our enterprise technology landscape. This is a pivotal "player-coach" role, combining strategic leadership with the technical expertise to act as our internal authority on Microsoft Dynamics 365.
You will lead the day-to-day IT operations, ensuring our systems are reliable, secure, and aligned with business objectives. Your primary mission will be to optimise and evolve our core Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations platform, while leading a team dedicated to providing excellent end-user support and managing our broader application ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities
* Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations Ownership - Serve as the organisation’s internal technical authority and subject matter expert for Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations.
* Provide hands-on support, troubleshooting, and resolution of complex system issues.
* Lead the delivery of system enhancements, configurations, and improvements to align the platform with evolving business needs.
* Manage the full system update lifecycle, including testing, release cycles, and change management.
* Oversee and support integrations between Dynamics F&O and other critical business systems.
* Enterprise Applications Management - Own and manage the organisation’s broader application landscape, including LMS platforms, time and attendance systems, workflow management, and reporting tools.
* Ensure all enterprise systems operate reliably, securely, and deliver maximum value to the business.
* Partner with business teams to identify process improvements and technology-driven solutions.
* Hands-On Technical Problem Solving - Diagnose and resolve technical issues across enterprise applications and their integrations.
* Collaborate directly with vendors and technical partners to escalate and resolve complex problems efficiently.
* Develop practical, scalable solutions to operational challenges using existing technology platforms.
* IT Operations and End-User Support - Lead and manage the organisation’s day-to-day IT operations, ensuring a stable and productive technology environment.
Oversee and mentor the IT team responsible for:
* User support and service desk activity.
* Management of laptops, desktops, and mobile devices.
* Administration of Microsoft 365 services.
* User onboarding and offboarding processes.
* General workplace technology support.
* Vendor and Service Provider Management - Manage operational relationships with key technology suppliers, including our managed service provider.
* Coordinate escalations, hold vendors accountable for service delivery, and ensure technical support meets agreed SLAs.
* Ensure comprehensive documentation and effective knowledge transfer from all external partners.
* Team Development and Capability Building - Mentor, coach, and develop the internal IT team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
* Build internal capability around enterprise systems to gradually reduce reliance on external consultants.
* Establish and maintain clear support procedures, runbooks, and system documentation.
* Systems Integration and Data Flow - Support and maintain the integration of systems across the organisation to ensure seamless data flow.
* Ensure the reliable and secure movement of data between enterprise platforms and reporting tools.
* Assist in the development and enhancement of reporting and analytics capabilities, particularly using tools like Power BI.
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
* Deep Technical Expertise: Extensive, hands-on experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, including supporting, troubleshooting, and configuring the platform.
* ERP Knowledge: Strong understanding of core ERP processes, such as finance, procurement, and operational workflows.
* IT Operations: Proven experience leading IT operations and end-user support teams, with a strong grasp of Microsoft 365, Azure, and device management.
* Integration & Problem-Solving: Experience working with system integrations and a strong ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues.
* Information Security: Strong knowledge and a demonstrable commitment to implementing robust information security practices.
* Leadership & Communication: Experience leading or mentoring technical teams, with the ability to communicate effectively and build rapport with both technical colleagues and business users.
* Experience implementing or supporting major Dynamics 365 F&O programmes.
* Familiarity with the Power Platform (Power Apps, Power Automate) and workflow automation tools.
* Experience with reporting platforms, specifically Power BI.
* Relevant Microsoft Dynamics or ERP certifications.
* Experience working within multi-site service, operational, or not-for-profit businesses.
Executive Recruit is a boutique executive search firm specialising in helping organisations source and attract top-tier leadership talent. With a tailored approach, we partner with businesses to identify high-calibre executives who drive growth and transformation. Our expertise ensures clients find the right blend of experience and acumen to strengthen leadership and board effectiveness.
#J-18808-Ljbffr