Head of Business Applications

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Business Applications to lead and optimise a complex enterprise applications landscape within a highly regulated, 24/7 operational environment. This is a senior leadership role responsible for driving digital transformation, application governance, and technology value realisation across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities
Develop and execute a 5-year application architecture roadmap aligned to business strategy
Lead digital transformation initiatives, modernising legacy systems and driving innovation (AI/ML, cloud, mobile)
Oversee enterprise application portfolio management, including ERP, billing, and operational systems
Drive system integration across business applications and operational technologies
Establish and maintain governance, risk, and compliance frameworks (e.g., POPIA, SOX)
Manage vendors, contracts, and SLAs, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency
Take full ownership of budget management (CAPEX & OPEX) and deliver measurable ROI
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field

8–10 years’ experience in software engineering / application management
Minimum 5 years in enterprise or solution architecture leadership roles
Proven experience in integrating ERP systems with operational technologies (OT)
Strong track record of managing multi-million Rand budgets and achieving cost efficiencies
Experience working in complex, regulated industries (Healthcare, Pharma, Manufacturing, Mining)
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
Certifications in TOGAF, ITIL, Agile/Scrum, Digital Transformation
MBA or postgraduate qualification (advantageous)
Experience with LIS systems, mobile applications, AI/ML, and cloud platforms
Strong expertise in enterprise architecture, application lifecycle management, and data strategy

Key Competencies
Strategic thinking and visionary leadership
Strong stakeholder engagement at executive level
Change leadership and organisational transformation expertise
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment