IS/IT Manager – Belgium - Freelance
Experienced job Tubize (Walloon Brabant)
Job description
Location: Tubize & Herstal, Belgium
Sector: Defense & High-Technology Industry
Reporting to: Executive Committee
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and strategic IS/IT Manager to lead the IT function for our Belgian operations. This is a senior leadership position requiring a professional with a comprehensive vision of IT covering infrastructure, cybersecurity, data, and sourcing who can drive digital transformation while ensuring operational excellence and business continuity.
As a key member of the management team, you will be responsible for the overall performance, security, and evolution of the IT estate, serving approximately 700 users across two sites (Tubize and Herstal). You will act as a trusted business partner, bridging technology and business strategy to create sustainable value.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership & IT Governance
Define and execute the IS/IT strategy in alignment with business objectives and Group IT policies.
Ensure optimal allocation of technological and human resources to support business growth and operational efficiency.
Act as a key contributor to the European IT community, sharing best practices and driving standardization.
2. Infrastructure & Operations Management
Oversee the entire IT infrastructure (networks, servers, virtualization, cloud, end-user computing) to ensure high availability, performance, and scalability.
Guarantee business continuity and disaster recovery (BCP/DRP) for mission-critical systems.
Drive continuous improvement of methods, processes, and production architectures.
3. Cybersecurity & Risk Management
Own the cybersecurity strategy and posture, ensuring compliance with defense-sector security standards and regulations.
Act as the primary point of contact for security governance, risk assessment, and incident response.
Proactively monitor emerging threats and implement appropriate safeguards.
4. People & Team Leadership
Lead, mentor, and manage the internal IT team (~12 professionals) across two sites, fostering a culture of collaboration, agility, and accountability.
Build and unite cross-functional teams, ensuring clear communication and effective decision-making even in complex or high-pressure environments.
Manage external partners, suppliers, and service providers to deliver cost-effective, high-quality services.
5. Budget & Vendor Management
Own the IT budget, managing CAPEX and OPEX with a focus on cost optimization and value creation.
Lead vendor negotiations, contract management, and procurement processes (RFPs, tenders).
Optimize costs across hardware, software, services, and resources.
6. Business Partnering & Innovation
Collaborate closely with business units to understand their needs and translate them into effective technology solutions.
Drive digital transformation initiatives that evolve operations, processes, and organizational models.
Support the organization in maximizing the impact of digital technologies.
Desired profile
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a seasoned IT leader with a strong strategic mindset and a proven track record in managing complex IT environments. The ideal candidate combines deep technical understanding with business acumen and exceptional leadership skills.
Essential Experience & Qualifications:
Leadership Experience: Minimum 8–10 years of progressive experience in IT management, with at least 3–5 years in a senior leadership role (IS/IT Manager, Head of IT, or similar).
End-to-End IT Vision: Demonstrated experience overseeing infrastructure, cybersecurity, data, and sourcing with a comprehensive understanding of the entire IT landscape.
Technical Depth: Strong background in Windows, Active Directory, and VMware (as evidenced by hands-on technical foundation), with sufficient depth to challenge teams and suppliers.
People Management: Proven experience leading and developing IT teams, including both internal staff and external partners.
Budget Management: Solid experience managing IT budgets (CAPEX/OPEX) and optimizing costs.
Business Acumen: Strong ability to act as a Business Partner, translating technical concepts into business value for C-level stakeholders.
Education: Master's degree in Engineering, IT, or a related field. An Executive Master in IT Management or equivalent is a strong plus.
Languages: Fluent in French and English (both mandatory). Dutch is a plus.
Ideal Experience (Pluses):
Experience in industrial, regulated, or defense environments.
Active participation in international IT communities or cross-border projects.
CISO or cybersecurity leadership responsibilities.
Key Competencies:
Strategic thinking and vision
Strong leadership and team-building
Excellent communication and negotiation skills
Analytical and problem-solving mindset
Adaptability and resilience in complex environments
Customer-oriented and business-focused
Why Join Us?
Lead the IT function of a major player in the defense and technology sector.
Work in a dynamic, international environment with cutting-edge technologies.
Drive meaningful digital transformation and innovation.
Competitive compensation package and benefits.
Opportunity to participate in European IT communities and strategic initiatives.
Requirements
Nationality: EU nationality required (due to defense sector regulations).
Mobility: Availability for regular on-site presence in Tubize and Herstal.
Clearance: Ability to obtain security clearance as required.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to send their CV and cover letter to:
Please include "IS/IT Manager – Belgium" in the subject line.
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