Freelance Head of Enterprise Applications & Platforms | Dutch Speaker

We are seeking an experienced Head of Enterprise Applications & Platforms to join a major financial institution in the Netherlands on a contract basis. This is a senior leadership opportunity to establish, structure and lead a new Enterprise Applications & Platforms department within a complex IT organisation. The successful candidate will be responsible for consolidating shared IT services, improving standardisation and reuse, reducing bespoke solutions and shaping the strategic direction of enterprise applications, platforms and data services.

The department comprises approximately 100 FTE, including internal employees and external professionals, with two Section Heads reporting directly to this position.

Key responsibilities include: establishing, structuring and leading the new department; managing approximately 100 FTE; developing and executing the strategy for enterprise applications, platforms and data services; driving enterprise-wide standardisation, consolidation and rationalisation initiatives; promoting shared platforms, reusable solutions and consistent IT service delivery; ensuring quality, continuity, stability and ongoing development; leading organisational transformation and change programmes; advising executive leadership and senior stakeholders on strategic application and platform decisions; collaborating with business and technology leaders to align IT capabilities with organisational objectives.

Required experience and qualifications: Master's degree or equivalent level of professional expertise; minimum five years of senior leadership experience within complex IT environments; proven experience managing large IT departments of 100+ FTE; demonstrated success establishing new organisational units and leading organisational transformation; strong knowledge of enterprise applications, including HR, Finance and corporate support systems; experience with enterprise platforms, shared IT services and data services; proven ability to deliver application rationalisation, standardisation and platform consolidation programmes; strong stakeholder management skills with experience operating at executive and board-facing levels; strategic mindset combined with the ability to drive operational execution and organisational change.

The role is based in Amsterdam, hybride, with a contract duration of 12 months and start ASAP. Salary is negotiable. Dutch speaker is required.