IT- Applications Head

Lead and manage company-wide IT applications, digital transformation projects, automation initiatives, and business continuity plans across Sales and Non-Sales functions. The role will be responsible for handling key applications like DMS, SFA, and SAP support, along with AI-driven productivity initiatives, analytics platforms, and large-scale digital projects across PAN India operations.

Key Responsibilities

IT Applications & Digital Transformation

• Spearhead IT digital projects, new application developments, enhancement initiatives, and business continuity planning.
• Drive enterprise application strategy aligned with business objectives and organizational growth plans.
• Lead automation initiatives for sales and commercial processes to improve operational efficiency, reduce manual dependency, and enhance business performance.
• Identify opportunities for digital innovation and process optimization using emerging technologies and AI-driven solutions.

DMS, SFA & SAP Applications

• Manage and support Distributor Management System (DMS), Sales Force Application (SFA), and VAN Sales applications with strong functional and technical expertise.
• Manage and support SAP S/4 HANA operations, enhancements, integrations, and implementation projects.
• Ensure smooth functioning and continuous improvement of all Sales and Non-Sales applications across PAN India operations.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders (Sales Head/ Trade Marketing Head and their team) and implementation partners for issue resolution, upgrades, and process enhancements.

AI & Analytics Enablement

• Drive adoption of AI tools, platforms, frameworks, and modern technologies to improve workplace productivity and business effectiveness.
• Reimagine application development and support processes using AI-led capabilities and automation.
• Lead implementation and enhancement of Power BI or other business analytics platforms for management reporting and data-driven decision-making.

Technology & Database Management

• Maintain understanding of SQL Server and Oracle Database environments for application support and integrations.
• Evaluate and benchmark new technologies, tools, and platforms for future-ready IT initiatives.

IT Operations & Governance

• Sales IT support and application operations across PAN India for distributors and field force users.
• Ensure adherence to SLAs, incident management, problem management, ageing control, and post-implementation support effectiveness.
• Monitor application performance, system availability, and user experience across enterprise systems.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Collaborate with consulting organisations, implementation partners, and IT development teams for the timely delivery of projects and solutions.
• Manage external vendors, technology partners, and support teams to ensure quality delivery and service excellence.
• Engage with business stakeholders to understand requirements and translate them into scalable technology solutions.

Financial & Team Management

• Manage annual IT application budgets and ensure optimum utilisation of resources to achieve project goals.
• Lead and mentor cross-functional IT application teams, support teams, and project stakeholders.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Understanding of SAP S/4 HANA environment and enterprise application ecosystem.
• Hands-on expertise in DMS, SFA, and VAN Sales applications.
• Knowledge of AI tools, AI platforms, frameworks, and productivity automation.
• Experience with Power BI or similar analytics/reporting tools.
• Working knowledge of SQL Server and Oracle Databases.
• Strong project management, stakeholder management, and vendor coordination skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and leadership capabilities.
• Ability to drive large-scale digital transformation initiatives.

Preferred Experience

• 12–15+ years of experience in IT Applications, Digital Transformation, or Enterprise Systems.
• Experience in FMCG, Consumer Goods, Distribution, or Sales-driven organisations preferred.
• Proven experience in managing PAN India enterprise applications and large user bases.
• Exposure to SAP implementation/support projects and sales automation platforms.

Educational Qualification

• Bachelors degree in Engineering / Computer Science / Information Technology.