Role Summary:

The Lead Systems Architect is the technical strategist for our mega app vision. This role manages the integration between our JavaScript-based ERP (System of Record) and our modern B2B Commerce and CX platforms (Systems of Engagement). You will lead a small, dedicated development team to build a fast, scalable ecosystem that simplifies work for 250+ staff and enhances the customer experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Technical Leadership: Lead a small in-house team of developers, setting the standards for high quality, scalable code and modern engineering practices.

• System Integration: Design the bi-directional data flow between the ERP, the B2B Commerce app, and customer support to ensure a single, accurate view of the customer.

• AI & Automation: Architect the implementation of AI models to automate technical support, product configurations, and customer service routing.

• Performance & Scale: Ensure the platform remains high-velocity as we scale to 30,000+ products and increased transaction volumes.

• Architecture Integrity: Maintain the "source of truth" in the ERP while ensuring the front-end tools remain flexible and easy for sales and marketing to use.

Essential Requirements:

• 8+ years of experience in Software Architecture or Lead Development.

• Expertise in at least one enterprise-grade back-end language (PHP or Python) and its associated frameworks.

• Strong proficiency in JavaScript (Node.js) to support ERP-side logic and modern web interfaces.

• Proven success in API-first design (REST/GraphQL) and integrating complex third-party platforms.

• Experience with cloud infrastructure and managing data security.

Beneficial Requirements:

• Experience with Vector Databases or RAG for AI-driven customer service.

• Background in technical distribution, industrial wholesale, or high-SKU environments.

• Understanding of modern "headless" or decoupled software architectures.

Work Environment & Compensation:

• Location: Johannesburg.

• Travel: Minimal.

• Hours: Standard business hours.

• Compensation: Competitive and aligned with D5 Paterson grade benchmarks for senior technical specialists.

Organisational Context:

At EM, we are driven by the purpose of “Making connections, powering tomorrow”. We power our customers’ worlds by integrating quality products into innovative solutions, supported by people who are passionate about service.

Vision: Advance the lives of every person in Southern Africa sustainably through electrification and automation.

Mission: Connect with customers by deeply understanding their evolving needs; promote brands and solutions to solve tomorrow’s problems today; and partner across the value chain in a sustainable, easy-to-do-business way.

Values:

Open – We communicate honestly and transparently, listening deeply to differing views.

Loyal – We serve our customers, colleagues, and manufacturers with integrity and dedication.

Brave – We go beyond comfort zones, taking on new challenges with courage and vision.