Strategic Lead (Applications)
Location: Stoke-on-Trent/ Hybrid
Salary: £50,676 a year
Are you an experienced applications leader with a passion for digital transformation, systems improvement and delivering exceptional user experiences?
At our client, they're looking for a strategic and hands-on leader to oversee the development and support of our applications portfolio, ensuring our systems continue to evolve, enable smarter working, and deliver real value for colleagues and customers alike.
What you'll do:
- Lead the development and delivery of application improvements, digital workflows, process automation and system enhancements.
- Manage system upgrades and projects from planning and testing through to successful implementation.
- Ensure excellent day-to-day application support, maintaining service levels and driving continuous improvement.
- Work closely with business teams, suppliers and stakeholders to identify opportunities for innovation and change.
- Explore and implement AI-enabled solutions that improve efficiency and customer experience.
- Lead training, testing and engagement activities to support the successful adoption of new systems and enhancements.
- Monitor performance, measure benefits and provide meaningful reporting to project boards, improvement boards and leadership forums.
- Champion robust data management, governance and business continuity practices across applications and systems.
Who you are:
We're seeking a collaborative and forward-thinking technology professional who combines technical expertise with strong leadership and communication skills.
You'll bring:
- Experience leading application support, systems development or digital transformation activities.
- Strong problem-solving skills with a logical and analytical approach.
- Demonstrable experience managing third-party suppliers, integrations and technology partners.
- Significant hands-on experience with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, including SharePoint, Teams and Power Automate.
- The ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, engaging communications for a range of audiences.
- Experience prioritising and managing backlogs, system enhancements, roadmaps and change initiatives.
- A strong understanding of data management, information security and application governance.
- Knowledge of ITIL principles and service management practices.
- Experience using technology and AI to drive business improvement and innovation.
Desirable
- Project, Change Management or Lean qualification.
- People management qualifications or formal leadership training.
- IT degree or equivalent professional qualification.
- Microsoft 365 certification.
- Experience working alongside data and analytics teams
Why Join Us?
At our client, you'll have the opportunity to influence strategic technology decisions, lead meaningful change, and help shape digital services that make a real difference to our colleagues and customers. Working within a values-driven organisation, you'll be empowered to innovate, collaborate and continuously improve how we deliver our services
Closing date: 22nd November 2026
Shortlist date: 23rd November 2026
Interview date: TBC
Strategic Lead (Applications) employer: Iris Recruitment
IRIS Education is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where creativity and collaboration thrive. As a Marketing Events Specialist, you'll benefit from a supportive culture that prioritises professional growth and development, alongside the opportunity to manage impactful events across diverse international markets. With a focus on innovation and a commitment to employee well-being, IRIS Education stands out as a rewarding place to build your career in the education technology sector.
