Job Began Listed From: 10 Jan 2010
Job Close On: 10 Apr 2010
Confidential Position Specification
IT Director
- China [Shenzhen] -
Client
Our client is a US company specializing in the distribution of a full range of trim items to apparel manufacturers, specialty retailers, and mass merchandisers around the world. 
 
They are headquartered in the United States, but have grown over the years to become a global organization with facilities and operations in the United States, Dominican Republic, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Indonesia, and India.
 
The company’s clients include some of the world’s most recognized fashion brands and retailers.
Job Description
Operations in Asia
 
In Asia, the client has operating offices in China, South East Asia and India.  Currently, approximately 80% of their products are purchased from China, 70% of which are sold to clients located domestically within China.
 
 
The Opportunity
 
The client is currently searching for an IT Director who will be responsible for aligning Global IT resources to support the company’s business objectives.  This position is suitable for an individual who is seeking:
 
  • A management challenge in a dynamic, international environment.
  • Opportunities to develop individually in a growing global corporation.
  • Increased scope for decision-making.
  • Cooperative leadership with a highly motivated team.
  • The possibility to bring forward new ideas from conception through to implementation.
  • An attractive remuneration package with additional benefits
Summary of Responsibilities
Currently based in Shenzhen and reporting to the CEO in the US, the incumbent will strive to achieve the following objectives: 
 
  • To improve the company’s Global IT infrastructure to support a highly efficient and non-interrupted service
  • To provide benefit and a competitive advantage to the company through proven communication technologies and facilitate global concerted strategies.
  • To coordinate in-house and external application developers to support the company’s business requirements.
  • To protect the company from internet hacking, assaults and virus.
  • To ensure all operations comply with SOX requirements on IT control and laws.
  • To reduce company operating costs through IT initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
  • Complete implementation, stabilize and manage Porini ERP systems.
  • Ensure the organization’s IT infrastructure is stable and working efficiently, but also to plan for the medium and longer term IT organization, infrastructure and strategies.
  • Learn the business and listen to user requirements.  Identify the system needs of assigned user groups (ERP solution for Manufacturing partners, Finance department, Warehousing, etc.) and provide business focused analytical and project management support to internal users.
  • Actively seek to understand internal and external customer groups and their business requirements in order to plan for longer-term systems enhancements.
  • Maintain servers and telecommunication devices.  Ensure integrity of data back-up and software licenses
  • Stay abreast of new and relevant developments in software and hardware and introduce relevant proven IT technologies to top management
  • Support the user groups in identifying gaps between the system and user processes, and mitigate them.
  • Develop documentation, training, and other materials as needed by users.  Provide application support to the user groups.
  • Responsible for leading troubleshooting and developing feasible solutions for business problems in regards to Information System.
  • Independently manage the relationships and all interactions with local authorities, the network provider and other 3rd party vendors.
  • IT budget control with the aim of reducing / managing company’s cost.
  • Supervise, coordinate, motivate and train up subordinates who are scattered around the world.
  • Develop and manage remotely a solid IT team in both China and US and to encourage a responsive, solutions-oriented team attitude.
  • Serve as communication point between US and China organization with regards to IT related issues.
Work Experience and Abilities Required
  • Over 10 years experience working in a medium-sized MNC.
  • Prior experience working in an IT functional role within the Trim, Textile or Apparel industry.  At least 4 years in a managerial or leadership role.
  • Prior working experience within other industries with fast-paced, lean manufacturing environments will also be considered.
  • Prior experience maintaining  an ERP -  implementation experience
  • Familiar with a range of programming languages, design and set up of network infrastructure, maintaining security of VPN line between China and US is essential.
  • Strong English communications skills.  The incumbent will have oversight for both US and Chinese IT staff and report to the CEO based in the US. 
  • Ability to communicate effectively and interpret technical information to both technical and non-technical peers.
  • Solutions-oriented expert.  Able to understand user needs and find solutions to queries and technical issues.
  • An experienced and skilled manager with a proven ability to lead and motivate successful teams.   Strong remote supervisory / management skills.
  • Able to travel - high mobility both within and out of China
Personal Characteristics and Skills
  • A “man (woman) of action“, whose personality is characterized by an above-average focus on results and targets, and a high individual sense of responsibility.
  • A ‘can do’ attitude and solutions oriented.
  • Able to manage complex topics and ability to be flexible.
  • High integrity, mature, stable and accountable.
  • Ability to focus on your customer, both internal and external and provide practical solutions.
  • Both a team player and a leader
  • Bilingual in English and Mandarin.
  • Culturally adaptable and able to deal with vendors and internal and external customers.
Education

Successfully completed a university degree in Computer Science or Management Information Systems.  Masters of Science or MBA is a plus.

Language Ability

Bilingual in English and Mandarin both oral and written, as the incumbent will serve as the key point of contact between Hong Kong, China and US headquarters.

Compensation
The position compensation will be attractive and negotiable to the right candidate, comprising of a very competitive base salary supplemented by a performance oriented bonus opportunity and benefits.