Position Title: Interim IT Director – SAP Center of Excellence (COE) & Digital Manufacturing/Supply Chain

Location: Vernon Hills, IL (Hybrid – 3 days onsite / 2 days remote)

Duration: 6–12+ Month Contract (Contract-to-Hire Preferred)

Position Overview:

Our client is seeking a seasoned and strategic Interim IT Director to lead critical initiatives across the SAP Center of Excellence (COE) and digital modernization efforts within the manufacturing and supply chain domains. This role is instrumental in driving the enterprise transformation journey through SAP S/4HANA (RISE with SAP – Private Cloud), digital factory enablement, and next-generation supply chain capabilities. The ideal candidate will bring deep SAP expertise, leadership in regulated industries, and a passion for innovation through modern architecture and advanced technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the technical and delivery lead for SAP S/4HANA initiatives aligned to strategic business transformation objectives.
• Architect and implement API-first integration frameworks across SAP and edge systems, including WMS, 3PL, EDI, and MES platforms.
• Lead the deployment and adoption of SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) and SAP Datasphere to enable real-time analytics, data harmonization, and predictive intelligence.
• Champion test automation strategies leveraging Tricentis and Azure DevOps, enhancing quality assurance and agility across the delivery lifecycle.
• Collaborate closely with business stakeholders, supply chain, and manufacturing teams to shape and execute the digital roadmap.
• Partner with Global Quality to ensure compliance with regulatory standards (GxP, 21 CFR Part 11/820, ISO:13485) within validated environments.
• Provide continuity and support for existing SAP ECC operations during the transition to S/4HANA and other modern platforms.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• 10+ years of leadership experience within SAP ecosystems, including hands-on delivery of S/4HANA transformations and cloud-based deployments.
• Strong experience managing SAP Functional, Technical, Development, Integration, Basis, and Security teams within a Center of Excellence model.
• Demonstrated expertise with SAP Activate methodology, from design through deployment in complex global programs.
• Industry background in Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals, FMCG, or Big 4 consulting is strongly preferred.
• In-depth understanding of API-first architecture, SAC, Datasphere, and test automation frameworks (Tricentis, Azure DevOps).
• Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams in regulated, global environments with high compliance demands.
• Exposure to or knowledge of Smart Manufacturing, Industry 4.0, IoT, Digital Twin, and AI/GenAI technologies is a strong plus.