Description
We are seeking a hands-on and structured IT Manager to lead and continuously improve IT operations for HAL, DETECTOMAT, SONAX, and SIMAX in Germany and supervise local IT from Belgium, Nederland. This role oversees a wide range of IT services and systems supporting manufacturing, research & development (R&D), quality assurance, ERP, and compliance with GDPR. The IT Manager will also lead the formalization and documentation of key IT and business processes, ensuring alignment with DEF Network’s international IT strategy.
Excellent communication skills in both German and English are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic & Leadership Responsibilities
• Align local IT operations with DEF Network’s global IT strategy and international team standards
• Serve as the primary IT point of contact for HAL, DETECTOMAT, SONAX, and SIMAX
• Define and oversee IT budgets, resource plans, and project roadmaps
• Direct report to DEF Network CIO
Manufacturing, R&D, and Quality Support
• Support and optimize IT systems used in manufacturing execution (MES), production planning, and shop floor integration
• Provide infrastructure and tools that enable innovation and collaboration in R&D environments
• Ensure that quality assurance processes are supported through digital solutions (e.g., QMS platforms)
• Work closely with process owners to ensure system reliability, compliance, and continuous improvement
ERP & Business Applications
• Manage and improve the ERP systems supporting operations such as finance, logistics, procurement, inventory, and production
• Work with business stakeholders to analyze, optimize, and document business processes
• Ensure effective integration of ERP with other systems (e.g., MES, QMS, CRM)
• Coordinate with external providers and consultants for upgrades and enhancements
IT Operations & Infrastructure
• Oversee the local IT infrastructure, including networking, servers, cloud services, telephony, and endpoint devices
• Ensure operational stability, cybersecurity, and compliance with corporate IT policies
• Manage IT service delivery, helpdesk performance, and user satisfaction
• Maintain accurate documentation for systems, licenses, and asset inventories
Data Protection & GDPR Compliance
• Implement and monitor compliance with GDPR and company data protection standards
• Support the local Data Protection Officer in audits, documentation, and data risk assessments
• Define and manage policies for data classification, retention, and access controls
• Educate staff on data protection best practices and raise awareness of IT-related GDPR responsibilities
Process Formalization & Documentation
• Define and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) for IT processes such as incident management, change control, and user onboarding
• Collaborate with other departments to formalize and streamline cross-functional processes
• Maintain audit-ready documentation for key IT systems and workflows
• Foster a culture of process ownership, transparency, and continuous improvement
Project Management & Vendor Coordination
• Lead IT projects from conception to completion, including system implementations, migrations, and infrastructure upgrades
• Develop detailed project plans, budgets, risk assessments, and stakeholder communication strategies
• Coordinate and manage external vendors, consultants, and service providers
• Monitor project progress, report status to leadership, and address any risks or delays