Senior Applications Manager

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

To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements.