JDE Application Development Manager

Introduction

The Application Development Manager oversees the design, development, and support of business-critical applications, including JD Edwards ERP and other internal systems. This leadership role is responsible for managing a team of developers, setting priorities, coaching talent, and ensuring technology solutions align with business goals. The manager drives continuous improvement, oversees the full application lifecycle, and maintains fiscal accountability for development projects and tools.

Responsibilities

• Leadership and Team Management - Lead, mentor, and develop a team of application developers supporting JD Edwards and other enterprise systems. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning within the team. Establish development standards, enforce best practices, and guide staff in adopting structured development and documentation processes. Conduct regular 1:1s, performance evaluations, and growth planning for direct reports.
• Application Strategy and Project Oversight - Oversee the planning, development, testing, and deployment of new applications, enhancements, and integrations. Align development initiatives with business priorities in manufacturing, inventory, sales, and finance. Collaborate with business stakeholders to ensure projects are scoped properly and deliver expected outcomes. Ensure timely completion of development projects with high standards for quality and user experience.
• Continuous Improvement - Identify opportunities for system automation, data accessibility, and business process optimization. Promote innovation in application development and system usage across departments. Evaluate new tools, platforms, or frameworks that may improve operational performance or reduce cost/effort.
• Technical Governance and Compliance - Maintain oversight of application architecture, integration points, and version control. Ensure all custom development aligns with company policies and security standards. Work with infrastructure, security, and compliance teams to ensure safe, scalable system implementations.
• Budgeting and Cost Management - Assist in the development and management of the department''s annual budget for systems and infrastructure. Track and control costs related to application development and projects. Identify cost-saving opportunities through system optimization and vendor negotiations.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of JD Edwards EnterpriseOne or World development environments (OMW, BSFN, UBE, etc.).
• Familiarity with SQL, RPG, or other relevant programming languages and frameworks.
• Experience managing integrations between ERP and external systems.
• Comfortable with modern development tools and project tracking systems.
• Proven ability to lead and coach technical teams.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work cross-functionally with business stakeholders.
• Demonstrated success in aligning IT development with business strategy and measurable outcomes.
• Experience managing budgets and optimizing resources within IT or application teams.
• Strong problem-solving mindset and commitment to continuous improvement.
• Hands-on experience with modern software architecture, development methodologies (Agile/Scrum), and DevOps practices.
• Experience with enterprise systems such as ERP, CRM, or manufacturing management platforms.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Education, Experience, and Special Requirements

• Bachelor''s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in application development, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role.
• Experience working in a manufacturing and/or distribution environment strongly preferred.