Oracle Systems Management Lead

Lead the future of Oracle services at Sandwell Council. We're looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Oracle Systems Management Lead to take ownership of our Oracle Fusion platform and drive the strategic delivery, performance and continuous improvement of Oracle services across the Council. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping how technology supports vital services for our communities.

As our Oracle Systems Management Lead, you'll provide strategic leadership for Oracle Fusion modules including Finance, HR, Payroll, Procurement, EPM, Reporting and Risk. You'll act as the product owner, ensuring our Oracle environment remains resilient, effective and aligned with organisational priorities, while maximising the value of our investment in Oracle technology and licensing.

About the role: This is a highly visible leadership position where you'll oversee service performance, governance, supplier relationships and continuous service improvement. You'll be responsible for ensuring key suppliers meet contractual obligations and deliver high-quality services, whilst maintaining service stability and driving innovation. Working closely with stakeholders across Finance, HR, Payroll, Procurement and Digital Services, you'll help shape the future direction of Oracle services, managing everything from major incidents and quarterly Oracle releases to strategic planning and governance reporting. You'll also lead on Oracle licensing management, supplier performance reviews, budget oversight and compliance activities.

• Providing strategic ownership and leadership of the Council's Oracle Fusion platform.
• Managing supplier relationships, performance, service reviews and escalations.
• Leading major incidents, change management processes and release planning activities.
• Overseeing Oracle quarterly patching cycles, testing and business readiness.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives and system enhancements.
• Supporting governance, audit requirements and performance reporting.
• Collaborating with stakeholders to translate business needs into effective Oracle solutions.
• Leading and supporting teams to deliver excellent service outcomes.

About you: We're looking for someone who combines strong technical understanding with excellent stakeholder management and leadership skills. You will have:

• A degree-level qualification in a relevant subject or equivalent experience.
• Significant experience managing ERP suppliers and service delivery arrangements.
• Strong knowledge of Oracle Fusion.
• Experience managing ticket escalations, major incidents and service reviews.
• Excellent communication, facilitation and presentation skills.
• The ability to build positive relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Experience working with complex information and translating it into meaningful insights and actions.

Why Sandwell Council? At Sandwell Council, our work has a real impact. We are proud to be a values‑led organisation that supports its employees with excellent benefits, a competitive remuneration package, and a strong focus on development. By joining us, you’ll play a key role in delivering services that make a real and lasting difference to thousands of people across the borough.

To find out more, please visit our careers page: We Are Sandwell – We Are Sandwell.

How to apply: To be considered for this role, please submit a CV and supporting statement to Hollie_Norris@sandwell.gov.uk. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should a high number of applications be received. Applicants are therefore strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

If you are an internal candidate and currently at risk, please let the recruiting manager know. We place equality, diversity and inclusion at the core of who we are and how we lead, where every voice matters. At Sandwell, we recognise and value the richness that comes from diverse lived experiences, perspectives, backgrounds and identities. This diversity makes us a stronger and more effective council. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building a workplace where everyone feels they belong, are treated fairly, and have the opportunity to thrive.

Creating an environment where colleagues feel respected, supported and able to contribute fully is central to our culture and the way we work. We are committed to ensuring that all applicants and employees have equitable access to opportunities. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process and within the workplace so that everyone has the support they need to perform at their best and succeed in their role.

If you have any questions relating to equality, diversity, and inclusion, you can contact the EDI Team at EDI_Team@sandwell.gov.uk. If you wish to apply as Care Leaver or a Disability Confident candidate, please make sure to state this when submitting your CV. If you have a disability and require assistance in submitting your CV, please contact Hollie_Norris@sandwell.gov.uk.