Senior Applications Manager
📍 Glendale Heights, IL (Hybrid – 2 days onsite)
💰 $130,000 – $160,000 + Bonus
About the Opportunity
A well-established, private equity–backed organization is seeking a Senior Applications Manager to lead application strategy, development, and support across a growing enterprise environment. This is a high-impact leadership role supporting mission-critical systems, including a custom application suite and ERP platform that drive core business operations.
You’ll partner closely with IT leadership and business stakeholders to modernize systems, improve processes, and lead a small but critical applications team.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and mentor a high-performing applications team (including SQL and business systems resources)
- Own the full application lifecycle: development, deployment, support, and continuous improvement
- Drive Agile best practices, including standups, sprint planning, and backlog management (Azure DevOps)
- Oversee DevOps processes to improve release cycles and system reliability
- Design and execute test cases, QA processes, and quality control standards
- Collaborate with stakeholders to define requirements and deliver scalable solutions
- Evaluate current systems (ERP + custom apps) and recommend enhancements or modernization strategies
- Provide hands-on technical leadership across:
- SQL databases (data modeling, stored procedures)
- C#, .NET, JavaScript/jQuery
- Reporting tools (Tableau, SSIS, SSRS)
- Create and maintain documentation, user stories, and training materials
- Lead end-user training and adoption initiatives
- Manage third-party vendors and software integrations
- Monitor application performance, troubleshoot issues, and drive root cause analysis
- Manage budgets and identify opportunities for cost optimization
What You Bring
- 7+ years of experience in application development or management
- 3+ years in a leadership or people management role
- Strong technical expertise in:
- SQL / database management
- C# and modern application frameworks
- Data reporting and visualization tools (Tableau, SSIS, SSRS)
- Experience working in an Agile development environment
- Solid understanding of ERP/CRM systems (Sage experience a plus)
- Working knowledge of DevOps principles and CI/CD practices
- Proven ability to bridge technical and business teams
- Experience with QA/testing frameworks and user training initiatives
- Strong organizational and project management skills
Preferred Background
- Experience in distribution, manufacturing, or packaging environments
- Exposure to custom-built applications layered on ERP systems
- Track record of improving legacy systems and leading transformation initiatives
Why This Role
- Direct visibility to IT leadership and executive stakeholders
- Opportunity to own and evolve a critical internal platform
- Blend of technical leadership + hands-on influence
- Strong growth trajectory within a stable, PE-backed business
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
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The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements.