OverviewAS/400 IBM Consultancy ServicesWe are seeking a dynamic and experienced Chief Executive Officer/General Manager to lead our specialized consultancy firm focused on IBM AS/400 (IBM i/iSeries) systems and services. This executive leadership role requires a unique combination of deep technical AS/400 expertise, strategic business acumen, and proven leadership capabilities to drive growth and deliver exceptional client value. The CEO/General Manager will be responsible for the overall strategic direction, operational excellence, and financial performance of our AS/400 consultancy. This role demands a leader who not only understands the technical intricacies of IBM i systems but also possesses the business expertise to build and scale a successful consultancy practice. The successful candidate will drive revenue growth, manage client relationships, oversee service delivery, and build a high-performing team of AS/400 specialists.
Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & VisionDefine and execute the company's strategic vision, mission, and long-term growth objectivesDevelop comprehensive business strategies for AS/400 consulting services expansionIdentify market opportunities in legacy system modernization, cloud migration, and digital transformationBuild strategic partnerships with IBM and other technology vendors
Business Development & Client ManagementDrive revenue growth through new client acquisition and existing client expansionManage key client relationships and serve as primary contact for major accountsOversee proposal development, contract negotiations, and project scopingEnsure exceptional client satisfaction and project delivery outcomes
Operations & Service Delivery ManagementOversee all AS/400 consulting service lines including system optimization, application development, security assessments, and modernization projectsEnsure quality control and adherence to project timelines and budgetsManage resource allocation and project staffing across multiple client engagementsImplement best practices for service delivery and client communication
Team Leadership & DevelopmentBuild, lead, and mentor a team of AS/400 technical specialists, consultants, and support staffRecruit and retain top-tier AS/400 talent in a competitive marketFoster a collaborative, high-performance culture focused on client successProvide professional development opportunities and career progression paths
Financial ManagementDevelop and manage annual budgets, forecasts, and financial performance metricsMonitor profitability, cash flow, and key performance indicatorsImplement pricing strategies for various service offeringsEnsure compliance with financial regulations and reporting requirements
Required Qualifications
Technical Expertise
Minimum 10+ years of hands-on AS/400 (IBM i/iSeries) experience including:
Deep understanding of IBM i operating system, DB2 database, and integrated architecture
Proficiency in RPG IV (ILE RPG), CL Programming, SQL/400, and COBOL
Experience with AS/400 system administration, security management, and performance tuning
Knowledge of modernization techniques including 5250 green screen transformation
Understanding of AS/400 integration with modern technologies, cloud platforms, and web services
Leadership & Management Experience
Minimum 7+ years in senior leadership roles (VP, Director, or equivalent) in IT consulting or technology services
Proven track record of building and scaling professional services organizations
Experience managing P&L responsibility for business units exceeding $5M in annual revenue
Strong background in change management and organizational development
Business & Consulting Acumen
Comprehensive understanding of consulting business models, engagement methodologies, and project management
Experience with enterprise sales cycles, complex contract negotiations, and client relationship management
Knowledge of IT governance, compliance requirements, and risk management frameworks
Understanding of competitive landscape in IBM i/AS/400 consulting services market
Educational Background
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Administration, or related field
Advanced degree (MBA, MS) preferred
IBM certifications highly desirable (IBM Certified System Administrator - IBM i, IBM Certified RPG Developer)
Essential Skills & Competencies
Technical Skills: Advanced knowledge of IBM Power Systems architecture and hardware platforms
Experience with AS/400 security frameworks, backup/recovery procedures, and disaster planning
Understanding of integration technologies, APIs, and modern development frameworks
Familiarity with cloud migration strategies and hybrid infrastructure models
Leadership & Communication
Exceptional communication and presentation skills for C-level stakeholder engagement
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with structured thinking approach
Ability to translate complex technical concepts into business value propositions
Cross-cultural communication skills for diverse client base and global team management
Business Development
Proven ability to identify, pursue, and close new business opportunities
Experience developing go-to-market strategies for technical consulting services
Strong networking abilities within IBM i user community and industry associations
Track record of building strategic partnerships and alliance relationships
Preferred Qualifications
15+ years of combined AS/400 technical and management experience
Previous CEO, General Manager, or Practice Leader experience in IT consulting firms
Industry expertise in manufacturing, finance, healthcare, or other AS/400-heavy sectors
Active participation in COMMON user groups, IBM i community events, and industry conferences
Experience with mergers, acquisitions, or business transformation initiatives
Multilingual capabilities for international client engagement
Performance Objectives (First 12 Months)
Achieve 20%+ revenue growth through new client acquisition and service expansion
Improve project delivery metrics and client satisfaction scores
Build strategic talent acquisition pipeline to address critical skills gaps
Establish thought leadership presence in IBM i community through speaking engagements and publications
Develop comprehensive 3-year strategic plan for business growth and market expansion
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive executive compensation package commensurate with experience
Performance-based incentive structure tied to revenue and profitability targets
Equity participation and long-term incentive opportunities
Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, retirement, and professional development allowances
Flexible work arrangements with travel requirements (25-40% depending on client needs)
Application RequirementsInterested candidates should submit a comprehensive resume highlighting AS/400 technical experience, leadership accomplishments, and business development success. Please include specific examples of consulting engagements managed, team sizes led, and revenue growth achieved in previous roles.This position offers an exceptional opportunity to lead a specialized technology consultancy in a niche market with strong demand for expertise. The successful candidate will join a growing organization positioned to capitalize on the continued importance of IBM i systems in enterprise computing environments.
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