It Manager

Job OverviewWe are partnering with a company in the process of building a new manufacturing facility from scratch (0-1 phase) in Brazil.
The facility location and setup have been confirmed, and we have successfully placed the General Manager for this site in the first phase.
Now, we are urgently seeking a Local IT Lead (1st-line role) to oversee end-to-end IT operations, ensuring the facility's IT infrastructure, systems, and digital capabilities are built, launched, and operated stably.As the IT Manager, you will be the core owner of Brazil's factory IT work, responsible for designing and executing the IT strategy, leading the 0-1 construction of manufacturing IT systems, and managing a small but critical IT team to support business goals.Key Job Responsibilities1.
IT Strategy & Infrastructure ManagementDevelop and execute the factory's IT strategy aligned with corporate objectives to support manufacturing operations and digital transformation.Plan, build, and manage IT infrastructure (server rooms, networks, servers, cybersecurity systems) to meet manufacturing requirements for stability, security, and real-time performance .
Evaluate existing IT systems, propose optimization solutions, and drive continuous improvement to enhance operational efficiency.2.
Team Leadership & CollaborationLead and manage an IT team of 2-4 members: assign tasks, oversee performance, and conduct regular skill training to build a high-performing team.Recruit qualified IT talent and implement performance evaluation systems to support team development.Collaborate cross-departmentally (production, finance, logistics) to provide timely IT technical support and align IT solutions with business needs.Manage relationships with external vendors (software, hardware) to ensure service quality and cost-effectiveness.3.
End-to-End Project Management (New Factory IT Setup)Take full ownership of the 0-1 IT construction of the new manufacturing facility , including infrastructure planning, system selection, implementation, launch, and stable operation.Lead IT projects (e.g., ERP deployment, system integration) to ensure on-time delivery, budget compliance, and alignment with business requirements.Manage and evaluate project vendors, oversee project risks, and provide regular project updates to stakeholders.4.
System Operations, Security & ComplianceDeploy and maintain core manufacturing systems: SAP ERP (FI/CO, MM, PP, SD modules) , MES (Manufacturing Execution System), WMS (Warehouse Management System), and ensure seamless integration between systems.Develop and implement information security policies to prevent cyberattacks, data leaks, and security incidents.Ensure stable operation of IT infrastructure (servers, networks, databases, hardware) through regular monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting.Ensure compliance with global standards (ISO 9000, ISO 27001, GDPR) and Brazilian local regulations (e.g., LGPD data protection law) .
Implement data security, backup, and disaster recovery plans; conduct regular security audits, data backups, and recovery drills.Deliver regular employee IT security awareness training to mitigate human-related security risks.5.
Budget Management & Cost OptimizationPrepare and manage the annual IT budget, control procurement costs, and ensure efficient use of IT resources.Evaluate IT investment returns (ROI) to avoid resource waste and prioritize high-value IT initiatives.Required Qualifications1.Education: Bachelor's degree or above in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Information Management, or a related field.2.Work Experience:Minimum 5 years of IT experience in the manufacturing industry , with at least 2 years in a people management role.Proven experience in end-to-end IT setup for new manufacturing facilities (from planning to stable operation).
Hands-on experience leading SAP ERP implementation (deep involvement in FI/CO, MM, PP, SD module blueprint design and deployment) and integrating SAP with MES/WMS.Mandatory : Valid work authorization to work in Brazil (compliant with local labor laws).3.Technical Skills:Proficiency in IT infrastructure planning (network architecture, server rooms, cybersecurity) and manufacturing system management (ERP, MES, WMS).
Knowledge of IT compliance standards (ISO 27001, GDPR) and Brazil's LGPD data protection regulations .
Familiarity with database management, cloud computing, and IT troubleshooting for manufacturing environments.4.Language Proficiency: Fluent in Portuguese (spoken/written) and English (spoken/written); proficiency in Mandarin Chinese is a strong plus (supports cross-cultural collaboration with global teams).5.Soft Skills: Strong communication and cross-cultural collaboration skills; ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders; experience working in Sino-Brazilian business environments is a plus.Preferred QualificationsExperience in the electronics manufacturing industry .
Familiarity with IT operations in Brazilian manufacturing facilities or multinational companies operating in Brazil.Track record of managing IT teams in fast-paced, new-facility setup environments.