IT Senior Manager, Research & Development Systems (LIMS, PLM)

About this role: 
The Senior IT Support leads one or more teams of IT professionals overseeing complex IT projects and initiatives that align with business priorities and IT strategy. This role focuses on achieving objectives, optimising resources and advancing technical capabilities within the dedicated function. 

Senior IT Manager R&D is a critical role is embedded within the IT Commercial and Science & Innovation Tower and serves as a trusted partner, accountable for the full e2e IT outcome (strategy to project delivery to operational excellence for the Science & Innovation and Platforms & Solutions function. This role: 

    Has ownership for strategic delivery and accountable operational management of IT services and solutions within the Science & Innovation and Platforms & Solutions Function driving efficiency, simplification, value, and growth.

    Has ownership of the functional technology strategy, roadmap, enhancements, and lifecycle management of related applications e.g. LIMS, ELN, PLM aligned with Science & Innovation specific goals.

    Will be a key contributor to strategic decisions within the Science & Innovation and Platforms & Solutions Functions working closely with key leaders and stakeholders.

    Develops, understands, and addresses the technology needs of Science & Innovation and Platforms & Solutions functions, translating these into actionable and sustainable strategies to meet target IT TCO.

    Leads and manages the IT Science & Innovation team and collaboration across IT teams (Functional Towers, ERP, and Innovation CoE, D&A, Service Operations) on initiatives and projects to deliver a “best-in-class” IT experience as a single team. 

    Builds strategic partnerships with third parties to implement systems and tools aligned with Enterprise Architecture, wider IT Strategy and Operating Model and compliance to Standards and Controls.

Key Accountabilities:

Strategic Partnership
    Develop strategy and thought leadership that outline how technology can support and enhance the designated function’s vision and objectives, contributing to long-term business success.
o    Act as a proactive expert and trusted advisor, engaging with key stakeholders & functional leaders to explore new ideas, address challenges, and co-create solutions.
o    Collaborate with business stakeholders to drive the adoption of IT solutions and innovations.
o    Maintain a deep understanding of the Science & Innovation and Platforms & Solutions functions goals, processes, and technology needs, aligning IT solutions with their objectives.
o    Implement IT strategies and application roadmaps, aligned with global and regional business goals.
    Act as the single point of contact for IT to Science & Innovation and Platforms & Solutions Functions leadership, ensuring clear communication and understanding of IT operating model and services.

People
    Provide leadership, guidance and support to team members, performing line management responsibilities, delegating tasks, defining development plan, and promoting continuous development and excellence within the team(s). 
    Serve as a thought leader within the IT Commercial + Science & Innovation Function, championing the IT Operating Model, innovative approaches and influencing strategic decisions that drive value for functions.
    Develop knowledge and embed relevant industry best practices and introduce emerging trends to IT and Functions as part of the continuous improvement ethos.

Budget, Financial and Resource Management
    Establish and manage the IT budget via AOP cycle for the IT Science & Innovation Function, for initiatives within the approved portfolio, ensuring resources are allocated effectively and projects are cost-effective.
o    Monitor and track budgets and forecasts v actuals against KPIs, aligned to the company’s budget cycle.
o    Optimize the technology landscape and the total cost of ownership (TCO).

Technology Planning and Innovation
    Lead the creation of a strategic technology roadmap that supports the long-term goals of the Science & Innovation and Platforms & Solutions Functions, ensuring alignment with their vision and objectives.
    Advocate for technology-driven innovation, identifying opportunities where IT can enhance business capabilities, efficiency, and productivity.
    Identify and explore emerging technologies in partnership with functions and business units, fostering a culture of innovation and ensuring solutions are fit for purpose and future-proof.

Portfolio, Programme and Project Management
    Ensure the Science & Innovation IT team can quickly adapt to changing business priorities and demands, through development and implementation of robust portfolio management and business prioritisation.
    Lead and manage technology workstream and projects, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with their strategic requirements align to T&L Project Management Methodology.
o    Coordinate cross-functional teams, including IT and business functions and external vendors and partners, to deliver integrated technology solutions.
o    Govern and monitor project progress, manage risks, resolve issues, and communicate status to stakeholders regularly.
    Manage suppliers and partners to augment IT resources, capacity, and skills as needed.

Service Delivery and Support
    Work with IT Operations to ensure the delivery of IT services, ensuring stability, security, and performance.
    Collaborate with IT service management teams to address incidents, manage changes, and ensure the reliability and availability of systems through periodic Service Performance Reviews.
    Continuously improve IT service delivery processes by incorporating feedback from key stakeholders.

Compliance and Security
    Oversee team performance to ensure that all IT solutions and services comply with regulatory requirements, industry standards, data security, quality assurance, legislation and company policies.
    Collaborate with IT security teams to implement and maintain robust security measures for data and systems.

Advocacy for Continuous Improvement & Change Management
    Foster a culture of continuous improvement by actively seeking feedback from stakeholders and incorporating it into service and solution enhancements.
    Act as a strong advocate for change management supporting functional and regional teams to adopt new technologies and processes, for long-term success.
    Drive process improvements, promoting best practices to increase team productivity, reduce risk and optimise service delivery.

Skills and Experience:

•    Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field.  
•    Professional certifications in Project Management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) or IT Service Management (e.g., ITIL) are desirable. 
•    Minimum of 7+ years of experience in IT management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role with a focus on strategy, project management, and technology enablement. 
•    Proven experience partnering with business functions, particularly in Science & Innovation or R&D, to align technology solutions with business objectives.
•    Demonstrated track record of managing and delivering complex IT projects from inception to completion, with a focus on Salesforce and Digital Marketing Platforms,
•    Advanced understanding and experience on LIMS, ELN, PLM and Knowledge/Content Management solutions (particularly Labware LIMS and SAP PLM).
•    Experience working in a global organisation, with an understanding of how to navigate cultural and organisational complexities.
•    Strong knowledge of IT systems and infrastructure, with experience in Data Science, AI and ML is desirable within an R&D context. 
•    High level of business acumen, with an understanding of the R&D function, industry trends, and the regulatory landscape.
•    Proficiency in data analytics and data management, with the ability to utilise data insights to drive decision-making and strategy.
•    Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels.
•    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, capable of addressing complex challenges with strategic and practical solutions.
•    Proven ability to significantly influence outcomes through effective communication and decision making.  
•    Advanced communication skills to persuade and influence key senior stakeholders. The role needs to adapt styles, interpret, and explain information to different audiences from inside and outside the organisation who are not familiar with the subject matter. 
•    Leading teams with accountability for establishing and meeting team targets, delegating work and managing resources within a region or responsible area of the business, including line management duties and budgeting.
•    A proactive, forward-thinking approach, with a commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the field of IT and R&D.
•    Able to direct the application of existing principles and provide insights to senior management about the development of new policies, ideas and approaches
 

Tate & Lyle complies with all local/state regulations requiring salary range transparency.

When determining final compensation, we take into consideration: skillset, job scope, knowledge, prior experience, cost of living, market data, budget availability, and other factors as permitted by law.

The salary range for this position is: $115,000 - $181,000.

In addition to competitive pay, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that includes but is not limited to:

• Medical, Dental, Vision coverages
• Paid time off package, including vacation, sick time, and 16 weeks of paid parental leave
• 401K with company match
• Company paid life insurance
• Additional benefits at not cost to employee such as:  Lifestyle Spending Account, Identity Theft protection, Employee Assistance Program, telemedicine and more!

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California Consumer Privacy Act ("CCPA")

The Company is committed to complying with the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”) and all data privacy and laws in the jurisdictions in which it recruits and hires employees. We collect the following categories of personal information for the purpose of hiring the best qualified applicants and to comply with applicable employment laws: Name and contact information; Job preference and work availability; Social Security Number and/or other identification information; Education and qualifications; Employment history and experience; Military service; Reference and background check information, including relevant criminal history and credit history; Social media information; Pre-employment test results; Post-offer medical examination information and results, including drug test results; Voluntary self-disclosure information regarding minority, veteran, and disability status; and Information provided by you during the hiring process.

Tate & Lyle is an equal opportunity employer, committed to the strength of an inclusive workforce.