We are seeking a hands-on Manager of IT Systems Development to lead the delivery and support of enterprise applications with a strong emphasis on IBM i data, modern development tools, and operational reliability.
This role is responsible for both modernizing our application environment and keeping critical business systems running. Roughly half of the role focuses on application support, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis, with the remainder on development and improvement initiatives.
This is not a pure RPG role. IBM i experience is required, but strong SQL skills and experience using modern languages such as Python and PHP are essential. Experience with APIs and JSON is required. Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, GCP, or Azure is preferred. Exposure to AI-driven tools and data engineering is
expected as part of future-state development.
The position carries 7×24 production support responsibility (light but required).
Key Responsibilities
Lead a team responsible for the development and support of enterprise applications.
Ensure reliable operation of production systems through effective incident response, root cause analysis, and preventive fixes.
Design, enhance, and maintain applications using IBM i data with modern languages and frameworks.
Build and support REST-based integrations using JSON and APIs.
Execute application modernization initiatives aligned with business priorities.
Work directly with business users to translate requirements into working solutions.
Partner with vendors and internal teams to implement and support application solutions.
Enforce development, testing, and change control standards.
Prioritize and manage incoming development and support requests.
Required Qualifications
Education / Experience
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, or equivalent experience.
3+ years leading or supervising an application development or business systems team.
Demonstrated experience supporting production business systems.
Technical Skills (Required)
IBM i application and data environment
Strong SQL required
REST APIs and JSON
RPG experience
Python or PHP experience
Application troubleshooting and root cause analysis
Systems integration
Preferred / Plus
AWS, GCP, or Azure experience
AI-enabled development or data usage (LLMs, automation, or analytics)
ETL / data pipeline development
Leadership & Personal Attributes
Strong execution and follow-through
Comfortable balancing development and operational support
Able to communicate clearly with technical and business users
Practical problem-solver with a bias toward action
Organized and able to manage multiple priorities
Work Conditions
Participation in a 7×24 support rotation (light but required)
Occasional evening or weekend work
Office-based work with standard computer equipment
Some travel may be required

Roses Discount Stores is a super-regional retail chain founded in 1915 by Paul Howard Rose and headquartered in Henderson, NC. In 1997, Variety Wholesalers, Inc. purchased Roses. Variety Wholesalers, Inc. is a family owned business that began in 1922. In 1949, John W. Pope took over his family’s “Five and Dime” stores, eventually growing them into one of the largest privately owned companies in the United States. Today Variety Wholesalers is based in Henderson, NC and John Pope’s son, Art Pope serves as chairman. Variety Wholesalers, Inc. operates 422 stores throughout the Southeast, primarily comprised of the Roses and Roses Express brands.