Information Systems Applications and Data Manager

Position Overview

The Information Systems (IS) Applications and Data Manager is a key leadership role responsible for the strategic direction, governance, and operational management of enterprise applications and data systems. This position ensures the seamless integration, security, and performance of core digital platforms, including SAP and Microsoft applications, to drive business efficiency and innovation.

A core focus of this role is advancing the company's AI and Power BI strategy, enhancing analytics capabilities, and integrating cutting-edge technologies to support data-driven decision-making. The IS Applications and Data Manager also serves as a liaison with the University of Cincinnati Center for Business Analytics, fostering collaboration, leveraging external expertise, and driving continuous innovation.

This role leads a team of two analysts and oversees major initiatives such as SAP Master Data Governance and customer integration projects. The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking leader with a passion for leveraging technology to optimize business performance and drive digital transformation.

Key Responsibilities

Enterprise Applications and Data Strategy

• Lead the management and continuous improvement of SAP and Microsoft enterprise applications to align with evolving business needs.
• Develop and implement a robust AI and Power BI strategy to enhance business intelligence, reporting, and predictive analytics.
• Optimize SAP Master Data Governance to ensure data accuracy, integrity, and standardization across global operations.
• Facilitate seamless Ariba integration with key customers such as P&G, PPG, and Pirelli to strengthen supply chain connectivity.
• Drive cloud migration and system upgrade strategies to future-proof business applications.

AI, Analytics, and Innovation

• Establish a company-wide data strategy to support AI-driven insights, Power BI dashboards, and enterprise-wide analytics.
• Implement governance frameworks to ensure data security, accuracy, and compliance while enabling advanced analytics capabilities.
• Champion the adoption of AI-powered solutions to drive predictive analytics, automation, and process optimization.
• Leverage insights from the University of Cincinnati Center for Business Analytics to stay ahead of emerging technologies and industry best practices.

Collaboration and Cross-Functional Leadership

• Act as a strategic partner to R&D, Sales, Finance, and Operations to align IS initiatives with business goals.
• Participate in industry events, networking opportunities, and collaborative projects with external institutions.
• Foster innovation by identifying and implementing new revenue models, advanced reporting techniques, and enhanced production planning tools.

Project Management and Functional Enhancements

• Oversee system enhancements related to:
  • Production and capacity planning
  • Financial consolidation and advanced reporting
  • Warehouse management system (WMS) enhancements
  • Integration of new revenue models with Incoterms
• Manage major software implementations, upgrades, and digital transformation projects to ensure timely delivery and optimal performance.

Leadership and Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of two analysts, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Provide guidance and career development opportunities to enhance team capabilities and expertise.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to communicate IT strategies, key initiatives, and long-term technology roadmaps.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in information systems, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 7 years of experience managing enterprise applications, including SAP and Microsoft systems.
• Expertise in AI-driven analytics, Power BI governance and integration, and master data management.
• Proven experience with global system implementations, upgrades, and cloud strategies.
• Strong leadership experience, with a history of mentoring and managing technical teams.
• Experience collaborating with academic and industry partners, particularly with institutions like the University of Cincinnati.

Competencies & Skills

• Strategic thinker with the ability to align IS initiatives with business objectives.
• Strong project management skills, with a proven ability to lead complex technology implementations.
• Excellent stakeholder communication and collaboration skills across technical and non-technical teams.
• In-depth knowledge of SAP modules, Microsoft applications, Power BI, and AI-driven technologies.
• A proactive, innovative mindset focused on leveraging technology for business transformation.

This is an exciting opportunity for a visionary leader to shape the future of enterprise applications, data strategy, and AI-driven innovation at The Shepherd Material Science Company. If you’re ready to drive digital transformation and lead a dynamic team, we encourage you to apply!