IT Project Director (PMO)

Purpose of the Role

To establish, lead, and strategically direct the centralized EMEA IT PMO as a Service from inception to full operational maturity. This role is accountable for the successful implementation of the four-phase transition plan, achieving the value proposition (efficiency, consistency, cost optimization), and meeting all governance KPIs across the region.

Key Responsibilities

· Strategic PMO Leadership: Own the vision, strategy, and execution plan for the EMEA IT PMO service. Act as the primary sponsor and champion for the centralized model.

· Program Implementation: Direct the four-phase implementation plan (Foundations, Pilot, Rollout, Stabilization), managing risks, budget, and timeline.

· Service Delivery & Governance: Ensure the PMO delivers all services from the catalog (Project, Portfolio, Governance, AI Analytics) and meets or exceeds all defined KPIs/SLAs.

· Stakeholder Management: Maintain strong executive sponsorship (C-level) and manage relationships with country CIOs and business leads to ensure adoption and mitigate cultural resistance.

· Team Building & Leadership: Recruit, build, and lead a high-performing, multi-location team of project, program, and Agile managers.

· Technology & Innovation: Oversee the phased implementation of AI-enabled PMO tools and predictive analytics platforms.

· Financial Management: Manage the PMO budget, ensure cost arbitrage benefits are realized, and report on ROI.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Experience:

· Minimum of 10 years in IT project/program management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (Senior Program Manager or Director).

· Proven experience in setting up or transforming a PMO, preferably in a shared services or global environment.

Skills:

· Exceptional strategic thinking, business acumen, and financial management skills.

· Masterful change management and influencing skills to drive regional adoption.

· Deep understanding of PMO governance, portfolio management, and Agile at scale.

Certifications (Mandatory):

· PMP or Prince2.

· Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (LSS-GB) – must be obtained within first year.

Attributes: Results-driven, resilient, politically savvy, and an inspirational leader.