Company Overview:

We 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.

• Define and execute the company's strategic vision, mission, and long-term growth objectives
• Develop comprehensive business strategies for AS/400 consulting services expansion
• Identify market opportunities in legacy system modernization, cloud migration, and digital transformation
• Build strategic partnerships with IBM and other technology vendors

• Drive revenue growth through new client acquisition and existing client expansion
• Manage key client relationships and serve as primary contact for major accounts
• Oversee proposal development, contract negotiations, and project scoping
• Ensure exceptional client satisfaction and project delivery outcomes

• Oversee all AS/400 consulting service lines including system optimization, application development, security assessments, and modernization projects
• Ensure quality control and adherence to project timelines and budgets
• Manage resource allocation and project staffing across multiple client engagements
• Implement best practices for service delivery and client communication

• Build, lead, and mentor a team of AS/400 technical specialists, consultants, and support staff
• Recruit and retain top-tier AS/400 talent in a competitive market
• Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture focused on client success
• Provide professional development opportunities and career progression paths

• Develop and manage annual budgets, forecasts, and financial performance metrics
• Monitor profitability, cash flow, and key performance indicators
• Implement pricing strategies for various service offerings
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and reporting requirements

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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)

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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 Requirements:

Interested 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.