Strategy and Transformation Manager

Job Title: Strategy and Transformation Manager (Interim)
Location: Amsterdam EU CTO Office (Remote with occasional travel to EU locations)
Duration: 10 weeks (Option to extend)

We are seeking an experienced and pragmatic Strategy and Transformation Manager to join the EU CTO Office in a temporary role, focusing on driving technology transformation and modernization initiatives. This role will emphasize the evaluation and guidance of ongoing projects to ensure successful delivery while fostering internal capabilities across technology teams. You will work closely with cross-functional stakeholders to assess project risks, validate status reports, and ensure that program progress aligns with business and financial objectives.

• Second Line of Defense (Risk Assessment): Provide a neutral, independent assessment of ongoing technology transformation and modernization initiatives. Review and assess the status of programs within the Tech Transformation/Modernization tracker, identify risks, and provide actionable feedback to guide programs to success.

• Program Evaluation: Engage with key stakeholders to ensure the accuracy of project status reports, validating alignment with financial, architectural, security, and program objectives.

• Community Leadership: Lead and facilitate the development of the Tech Transformation Lead community, fostering knowledge sharing, feedback loops, and capability building within the EU CTO office.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with the AD Group, AD USA, and OneTech to align on best practices for Second Line of Defense responsibilities and share lessons learned.

• Feedback & Reporting: Provide regular updates and strategic recommendations to the EU CTO office and program teams, ensuring alignment with business objectives and priorities.

• Operationalization of Tracking Tools: Assist in the implementation and operationalization of the Tech Modernization Tracker, ensuring its effective use for project monitoring and risk management.

• Continuous Improvement: Actively contribute to improving internal capabilities by suggesting improvements to project management processes, tracking tools, and risk management frameworks.

• Experience: 7-10 years of experience in project management, technology transformation, or related fields with a strong understanding of governance frameworks and portfolio management.

• Leadership & Facilitation: Proven ability to lead and facilitate cross-functional teams, driving collaboration and knowledge sharing.

• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of technology transformation initiatives, including financial management, security assessments, platform architecture, and governance frameworks.

• Risk & Issue Management: Ability to assess project risks, provide constructive feedback to program teams, and develop effective risk mitigation strategies.

• Stakeholder Management: Strong experience in engaging senior leaders and teams at all levels, aligning diverse perspectives to drive project success.

• Pragmatic & Hands-On Approach: A balance of strategic oversight with hands-on involvement in program assessments, risk management, and process improvement.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, able to report complex findings in a clear, actionable manner.

• Languages: Proficiency in English (additional EU languages are a plus).

• Experience with tools such as ServiceNow and project portfolio management platforms.

• Previous experience in a 2nd Line of Defense role or similar governance function within a large, complex organization.

• Familiarity with tech modernization and transformation initiatives within retail or consumer packaged goods (CPG) industries.