Lead Project Manager

Job Description

The Lead ERP Project Manager will lead the planning, execution, and delivery of enterprise-wide ERP initiatives, driving end-to-end transformation across core business functions. This role is responsible for managing large-scale ERP implementations and enhancements ensuring seamless integration across finance, supply chain, manufacturing, and order management processes.

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in ERP systems, proven success leading complex ERP deployments, and the ability to align technology solutions with strategic business objectives to deliver measurable operational improvements.

Key Responsibilities:

ERP Program Strategy & Governance

* Define ERP program scope, roadmap, and objectives aligned with business strategy and digital transformation goals

* Establish governance structures, KPIs, and stage-gate controls specific to ERP implementations

* Lead ERP vendor selection, system integrator engagement, and contract negotiation processes

* Ensure alignment between IT, business stakeholders, and third-party partners ("3-in-the-box" model)

ERP Implementation & Delivery

* Lead full lifecycle ERP implementations (plan, design, build, test, deploy, and stabilize)

* Manage large-scale ERP projects, including new system implementations, upgrades, and integrations

* Ensure delivery against scope, timeline, budget, and quality metrics

* Oversee detailed ERP project plans, including work streams such as:

* Finance (GL, AP/AR, FP&A)

* Supply Chain & Procurement

* Manufacturing & Inventory Management

* Order-to-Cash and Procure-to-Pay

Business Process Transformation

* Partner with business leaders to re-engineer and standardize processes aligned with ERP best practices

* Drive adoption of standardized ERP processes vs. custom solutions where possible

* Ensure data integrity, master data governance, and system harmonization across business units

* Support post-merger ERP integrations and system consolidations

Cross-Functional Leadership

* Lead cross-functional ERP program teams across IT, Finance, Operations, and Supply Chain

* Coordinate internal resources and external system integrators

* Provide leadership, coaching, and direction to project team members and functional leads

Vendor & System Integrator Management

* Manage relationships with ERP vendors and implementation partners

* Oversee deliverables, timelines, and adherence to statements of work (SOWs)

* Ensure quality and accountability across all third-party partners

Risk, Quality & Compliance

* Identify and mitigate ERP-specific risks including data migration, integration failures, and go-live readiness

* Ensure compliance with SDLC, SOX, and internal audit requirements

* Oversee ERP testing strategy, including SIT, UAT, and cutover planning

Change Management & User Adoption

* Partner with Organizational Change Management (OCM) teams to drive ERP adoption

* Oversee training strategy, materials development, and user readiness activities

* Ensure successful transition from project delivery to steady-state ERP operations

Stakeholder Communication

* Provide clear, consistent updates to executive leadership and steering committees

* Facilitate ERP governance meetings, stage-gate reviews, and decision-making forums

* Manage stakeholder expectations across all levels of the organization