Head of Service - Core Transaction Systems

Company Description:

Join the UAE’s largest bank and one of the world’s largest and safest financial institutions. Our focus is to create value for our employees, customers, shareholders, and communities to grow through differentiation, agility, and innovation. We are looking for top talent, and your success is our success. Accelerate your growth as you help us reach our goals and advance your career. Be ready to make your mark at a top company in an exciting & dynamic industry.

Job Description:

About the Role: We're on the lookout for an experienced Head of Service to lead our Core Banking team. This role is all about overseeing our technology operations, both the day-to-day running and the exciting changes we're planning. You'll be at the forefront of our transformation journey, modernizing our core banking system to a native core with API-enabled standard APIs. We need someone who gets modern architecture principles and cloud technologies to drive innovation and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Oversee Technology Operations: Manage the entire technology operations for our core banking system, ensuring seamless integration, optimal performance, and high availability. This includes both the day-to-day running and the strategic changes needed to keep our systems up-to-date and efficient.
2. Lead Transformation Projects: Spearhead the transformation initiative to modernize our core banking system. This involves transitioning to a native core with API-enabled standard APIs, reducing dependencies on legacy systems, and enhancing system agility and scalability.
3. Collaborate with Cross-Functional Teams: Work closely with various teams, including business units, IT, and customer service, to ensure alignment with business objectives and regulatory requirements. Facilitate effective communication and collaboration to drive project success.
4. Implement Modern Architecture and Cloud Technologies: Advocate for and implement modern architecture principles, such as microservices, containerization, and cloud-native solutions. Leverage cloud technologies to enhance system scalability, reliability, and security, ensuring the core banking system is future-proof and resilient.
5. Manage and Mentor Technology Team: Lead and mentor a team of technology professionals, providing guidance, support, and development opportunities. Foster a collaborative and high-performance culture, encouraging continuous learning and improvement.
6. Deploy and Optimize Temenos Core Banking Platform: Ensure the successful deployment, integration, and optimization of the Temenos core banking platform. Leverage its capabilities to drive business growth, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
7. Engage with Stakeholders: Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including senior management, business units, and external partners. Act as a trusted advisor and technology leader, providing insights and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.

Qualifications:

1. Extensive Experience: At least 15 years of experience in leading technology operations within the banking sector, with a focus on core banking systems. Proven track record in managing large-scale transformation projects and driving technological innovation.
2. Temenos Expertise: In-depth knowledge of the Temenos core banking platform, including its implementation, customization, and optimization. Ability to leverage its features to meet business needs and enhance customer experiences.
3. Modern Architecture and Cloud Technologies: Strong understanding of modern architecture principles, including microservices, containerization, and cloud-native solutions. Proficiency in cloud technologies like AWS or Azure, and their application in banking environments.
4. Technical Competencies:
   1. Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C#.
   2. Experience with database management systems like Oracle, SQL Server, or PostgreSQL.
   3. Knowledge of DevOps practices and tools, including CI/CD pipelines, Docker, and Kubernetes.
   4. Familiarity with API management and integration platforms.
   5. Understanding of cybersecurity principles and best practices.
5. Leadership and Communication Skills: Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. Ability to inspire and motivate teams, build consensus, and drive change in a complex and dynamic environment.

Why Join Us: You'll be part of a forward-thinking organization committed to innovation and excellence. You'll work on cutting-edge projects that shape the future of banking technology. Leading a critical transformation initiative that will redefine our core banking operations will allow you to make a significant impact on the organization's success and growth. You'll work in a collaborative and dynamic environment with ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement. You'll benefit from continuous learning and exposure to the latest technologies and industry trends.