The Head of Application Architecture will lead the strategic direction and governance of Ibec's application landscape, with a primary focus on the selection, integration, and optimisation of third-party vendor packages. This role will ensure the seamless delivery of business solutions, enhance data integrity and information flow, and minimise application sprawl through the adoption of common processes and robust architectural standards.As a Senior Manager within Ibec, this role includes working with colleagues in the implementation of Ibec's strategic and organisation development initiatives to support the delivery of Ibec's strategy.Closing date for applications will be 15th October at 5pmABOUT THE ROLELead the Design AuthorityChair the Design Authority to define and govern application design principles, architectural standards, and the selection criteria for vendor packages and SaaS solutions.Strategic Vendor ManagementDrive the strategic selection and implementation of vendor packages, ensuring they align with business needs and the long-term application roadmap.Integration and Data OptimisationDefine and oversee application and data integration standards, ensuring that disparate vendor packages and SaaS solutions communicate effectively to enhance information flow, data integrity, and reusability.Application Sprawl MinimisationActively manage the application portfolio, identifying opportunities for consolidation, reuse, and retirement of redundant or underutilised vendor packages to minimise sprawl and reduce operational complexity.Architectural LeadershipProvide expert architectural guidance to business and technical teams on how to best configure and integrate new vendor packages into the existing ecosystem.Innovation and ImprovementIdentify and evaluate new technologies and features within the existing vendor landscape (SaaS, Cloud, Microsoft) and emerging technologies like AI to drive continuous improvement.Leadership and DevelopmentLead and motivate a team of professionals to achieve strategic technology objectives and activity targetsManage individual and team performance, offering coaching and support as needed.Act as a role model for team members.Support individual and team development.Ensure that teams are trained, understand and comply with Ibec governanceIbec Strategy DeliveryPlay a key role in Ibec's strategic delivery as a senior managerCollaborate with various teams across the organisation on critical business requirementsEngage collaboratively in initiatives and projectsABOUT YOUPrevious experience:Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in IT, with a significant portion of that time spent in a leadership or architectural capacity focused on the selection, integration, and management of vendor packages and SaaS solutions.Minimum 5 years of proven experience in an application or Enterprise Architecture role.Technical Skills Required:SaaS and Vendor Integration Expertise:Deep understanding of enterprise integration patterns, APIs, and the architectural principles required to successfully integrate multiple vendor packages and SaaS solutions.Architectural GovernanceProven experience in leading a design authority or similar governance body to define and enforce technical standards, particularly for vendor and package selection.Business AcumenStrong collaboration and stakeholder management skills with the ability to translate business needs into effective, standards-based technology solutions using third-party packages.Problem-SolvingStrong problem-solving and analytical abilities, with a focus on resolving architectural challenges related to vendor package interoperability.Technical AcumenA solid understanding of the principles of modern cloud-native architectures (SaaS, Cloud, Microsoft) and emerging technologies like AI.Experience Required:Hold a primary degree in a relevant discipline; additional postgraduate/professional qualifications are advantageous.Strong leadership, strategic and communication capabilities.Exceptional strategic relationship management skills, both internal and external.Proven ability to lead, develop, and motivate a highly professional team.Project Management skillsInnovative thinking and problem-solving ability.Strong commercial insight and acumen.Resilience and commitment to achieving objectives.Ibec core competencies:Bias towards actionCollaborative – work together as 'one Ibec'.Dynamic – approach initiatives with careful planning, energy, drive, and resilience.Decisive – make clear, well-informed decisions.Member and Customer FocusAgile and Adaptive – embrace change and be adaptive to members' needs and in ambitious situations.Creative and Innovative – not afraid of dynamic thinking in finding solutions.Curious and Critical Thinking – open minded and proactive in gathering data in developing opinions .Drive and Personal LeadershipAmbitious – driven and can take responsible risks.Accountable – committed to highest standards and takes ownership of actions.Continuous Improvement – proactive on personal and professional developmentIbec is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for potential and existing employees with a disability. Should you wish to request a reasonable accommodation please email Kenny