Systems Manager

Job Description

Application Systems Manager

Belfast

IT

IT Director

The IT Application Systems Manager is responsible for leading the optimisation, enhancement, and strategic development of the organisation’s core business applications. This role oversees the continuous improvement of existing systems, evaluates new features and emerging technologies, and drives implementation of new solutions.

The role requires a strong technical background, hands on understanding of system integrations, and the ability to manage a small applications-focused team. The manager will act as the technical authority for business applications, ensuring the systems landscape supports operational efficiency and future business growth.

• Own the roadmap for all core business applications, ensuring high performance, stability, and alignment with business needs.

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, automation, and functionality within existing systems.

• Evaluate newly released product features and enhancements to determine their value and implement them where appropriate.

• Coordinate and oversee system upgrades, patches, and enhancements.

• Lead the design and implementation of system integrations (API, middleware, data flows) across core platforms.

• Work closely with technical teams, partners, and business stakeholders to ensure scalable, secure integration designs.

• Troubleshoot complex application issues, providing hands on technical support when required.

• Assess business requirements and translate them into technical specifications for application enhancements or new solutions.

• Support or oversee configuration, scripting, or low code/no code development within relevant platforms.

• Work as part of a team on small-to-medium development projects.

• Manage and develop the Application Support/Systems Improvement team.

• Allocate resources efficiently across support, enhancement, and project needs.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

• Work closely with department/team managers on requirements, define priorities, and ensure solutions meet operational needs.

• Act as the point of escalation for application related issues.

• Communicate system changes, releases, and impacts clearly to the business.

• Manage relationships with software vendors and service partners.

• Oversee licensing, product renewals, and contract negotiations as required.

• Strong technical background in application management, systems integration, or enterprise platforms.

• Experience with APIs, middleware, or integration tools.

• Understanding of databases, workflows, and configuration-driven development.

• Experience implementing or supporting cloud-based applications (e.g., SaaS/low-code platforms).

• Demonstrable experience managing or mentoring technical staff.

• Strong project management capability with experience delivering system enhancements or implementations.

• Ability to translate business needs into practical technical solutions.

• Strong communication skills and ability to build relationships across departments.

• Analytical, problem solving mindset with a continuous-improvement focus.

• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.

• Background in software development, systems engineering, or technical consultancy.