Leads the IT applications function: application portfolio, run/build, vendors and application strategy.
Entry
Expert
Coding
Low
Key skills
Career overview
The Head of Applications leads the IT applications function: application portfolio, run/build balance, vendor management, application roadmap and the application strategy. They own the application landscape alignment with business needs. The role leads to IT manager, IT director or VP technology.
Main responsibilities
- Define strategy and steer long-term direction
- Manage an IT team and its operations
- Own the technical roadmap of the perimeter
- Ensure delivery of products and programs
- Manage budget, scope and risks
- Align stakeholders and report progress
- Run steering committees and project rituals
- Mentor junior team members and review their work
- Coordinate the technical work of the team
- Coordinate with software vendors and third parties
- Prioritise work and manage competing demands
- Structure work, resources and governance
Technical skills
Technologies
Education level
Education requirements vary depending on the company, country and experience. Professional experience, certifications and technical skills can sometimes compensate for formal education.
High School / Bac
Less common
Bac+2 (2-year degree)
Less common
Bac+3 (Bachelor)
Less common
Bac+5 (Master / Engineering)
Common entry point
Experience & coding level
Experience level
Coding level
Useful certifications
Certifications are never mandatory. They are one way among others to prove a skill.
- ITIL 4 Strategist
- PgMP
- TOGAF Foundation
- PMP
Where can this career take you?
Multiple paths are possible. Click a role to open its profile.
Direct progression
Possible branches
Where can you go next?
Realistic next career moves, with compatibility and a transition roadmap for each.
Where can you go from here?
A typical progression built from real career relationships. Click any role to open its profile.
Soft skills
- Strategic thinking
- Leadership
- Clear communication
- Big-picture thinking
- Decisiveness
- Mentoring
- Stakeholder management
Common previous careers
Roles that frequently lead into this career.
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