Vacature

IT Manager

Giant Europe B.V.


For our client Giant Europe as part of the Giant Group, the world’s leading developer and manufacturer of bikes, frames, gear and components, we are searching an energetic, visionary and connecting IT Manager with broad ICT expertise and affinity with high performance products.  

Link to extensive job profile

Giant is the world’s largest bicycle manufacturer, producing not only its own range of bikes but also high-quality frames for other major brands. Headquartered in Taiwan and still led by its founding family across generations, Giant has built a strong global presence through both B2C and B2B channels. The company operates regionally across three core markets - Asia, Europe, and the United States - and maintains a decentralized structure with local teams in over 50 countries. 
In Europe, Giant runs two state-of-the-art assembly facilities - in the Netherlands (since 1997) and Hungary (since 2019) - while core component manufacturing takes place in Taiwan. The European headquarters, located in Lelystad, leads the European/regional operations.
The cycling industry experienced rapid growth during the Covid pandemic, but post-Covid, the market has slowed significantly, creating challenges for many players. Despite this, Giant remains financially healthy and is proactively adapting to the changing landscape.
To strengthen its position and increase efficiency, Giant has launched a bold new strategy focused on European centralization and the re-engineering of its European HQ. This includes streamlining the support functions for local sales organizations and unlocking synergies across markets. IT and digital transformation are key enablers in this transition bringing synergy, innovation, integration, and value creation to the forefront of the business.
This is your opportunity to be part of a global brand in transformation - where your digital and technology expertise will directly contribute to further shaping the future of the cycling world. 

Functieomschrijving:

We are seeking a motivated IT manager to join the European HQ of Giant in Lelystad. This full-time role offers the opportunity to work at the heart of the European organization and contribute directly to its growth and performance.  

As IT manager you will manage the IT team to support the European organizations, including the factories and sales organizations in the various countries in developing maintaining and improve IT systems, infrastructure and support. You will be the spider in the web and also connecting various stakeholders and (external) partners on relevant matters. This position offers international exposure, professional development opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact within a dynamic company and ability to pioneer/shape this role for Giant. Important focus is planned digital transition, including replacing current ERP system(s) into a uniform SAP S/4 HANA environment. As IT manager you report directly to the Managing Director of the European HQ, with a dotted line to the CIO of Giant Inc in Taiwan.

For more information about Giant, the team and the responsibilities of the IT Manager we refer to the extensive job profile

Functie-eisen:

The following background and experience is asked from the new IT Manager: 

  • Proven experience as an IT Manager or in a similar leadership role for at least 4 years, with specific expertise in SAP system administration and management. Experience and knowledge in Sales & Distribution is a plus including B2B and B2C business model.
  • Rich experience in leading business process analysis and implement system to support business process requirements: Analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex issues into clear recommendations and actions.
  • Rich experience in system integration and data flow analysis in complex project is a plus
  • Strong project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and deliver results on time and within budget.
  • Excellent communication and negotiating skills, with confidence to work across different departments and cultures, combined with strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Understanding of IT security protocols, data privacy, and EU regulatory compliance related to SAP systems.
  • Leadership and team-building capabilities, with a track record of guiding and motivating IT professionals.
  • Ability to work independently in a dynamic, international environment, balanced with the sensitivity to align and calibrate with (internal) stakeholders when needed.

The key competencies are explained in the extensive job profile

Arbeidsvoorwaarden:

At Giant, you will step into the dynamic and fast-evolving world of high performance cycling, mobility and sustainability, joining a diverse and forward-thinking organization at the heart of society. As the world’s leading bicycle manufacturer, Giant shapes the future of cycling through (digital) innovation, customer-centric solutions, and operational excellence.

In this role, you’ll make a real impact. You’ll lead a passionate team of motivated professionals, working together to bring Giant’s European digital ambitions to life. As IT Manager of Giant Europe you play a key role in the transition of the organisation.  

It’s a unique and challenging opportunity at a global industry leader with fitting employment conditions as will be explained by InterExcellent. 

Giant intends to have its new IT Manager start in the first quarter of 2026. Therefore the following timeline will be followed to appoint the IT Manager before Christmas/year’s end:

  • Applications (a job-specific cover letter and CV) are requested (as soon as possible, but no later than Monday, November 17, 2025, before 10:00 AM) via Giant@interexcellent.nl.
  • Candidates will be selected for an interview with InterExcellent in weeks 44-48 (2025).
  • The most suitable candidates will then be presented to Giant, who will decide which candidates will be invited for interviews.
  • The selection rounds will take place after week 48. 
  • The employment conditions interview will follow shortly thereafter.
  • A reference check and assessment may be part of the procedure.
This procedure is carried out by Geert-Jan Poorthuis (Managing partner InterExcellent) and Tren Keltjens (Executive Search Consultant) within InterExcellent, assisted by Caroline Kimman (Senior Recruitment Coordinator) who can be reached on 035-5280430 and via Giant@interexcellent.nl

We look forward to explore this unique opportunity with you!

Locatie:
  • Lelystad
Geert-Jan Poorthuis - InterExcellent

Drs. Geert-Jan Poorthuis

Managing Partner
Executive Search en Interim Management