About Our Client
Our client is a prominent organisation driving transformation in the financial services sector. With a strong focus on data modernisation and innovation, they are committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that align with strategic goals and regulatory requirements. Recognised for their leadership and expertise, they continue to shape the future of financial systems through excellence in programme delivery and stakeholder engagement. This position is a 2-year appointment, with the possibility of extension.
Position Overview
The Programme Director will lead a major Data Modernisation and Transformation programme for a large financial institution. This high-profile role requires strategic oversight of the entire programme lifecycle, from discovery and design to successful implementation. The Programme Director will collaborate with senior business and technology stakeholders, ensuring the programme meets its objectives within scope, budget, and timeline. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in managing large-scale, complex transformation programmes involving both technology and business change.
Core Responsibilities
Programme Management:
- Provide strategic leadership and direction to the Data Modernisation and Transformation programme.
- Develop and execute a comprehensive programme plan, including governance, milestones, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
- Oversee programme activities to ensure timely and successful delivery within budget.
- Manage financial performance, tracking expenses and reporting to senior management.
- Identify and mitigate programme risks through robust risk management approaches.
- Ensure compliance with governance frameworks and regulatory standards.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with senior business and technology stakeholders, including executives and steering committee members.
- Act as a trusted advisor, helping stakeholders align technology solutions with business outcomes.
- Facilitate workshops and meetings to ensure consistent communication and stakeholder alignment.
- Collaborate with external vendors to ensure quality deliverables and seamless coordination.
Team Leadership:
- Manage a team of programme managers, project managers, and other staff to achieve programme objectives.
- Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
- Provide coaching, mentoring, and regular performance evaluations to team members.
Programme Reporting:
- Deliver clear and comprehensive reports, updates, and presentations to internal and external stakeholders.
- Analyse programme data to identify improvement opportunities and implement continuous enhancement initiatives.
- Maintain accurate programme documentation that aligns with corporate standards.
Key Interfaces
This role involves collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders:
- Internal Teams: Work closely with business and technology teams to align the programme with organisational goals.
- Senior Leadership: Engage with executives and board members to ensure support and alignment.
- External Vendors: Coordinate with external partners to achieve high-quality outcomes.
Capabilities Required
- Proven experience managing large, complex transformation programmes involving technology and business change.
- Strong expertise in data modernisation, including data governance, quality, and integration.
- Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
- Extensive knowledge of banking operations, regulations, and industry trends.
- Demonstrated ability to manage risks, budgets, and large-scale programme delivery.
Desired Qualifications
- Minimum of 20 years of experience, including leading major transformation programmes in the financial services sector.
- Relevant certifications such as PMP, PRINCE2, or Agile.
- Advanced understanding of data management principles and analytics solutions.
- SFIA Level 6 or equivalent capability qualification.
This is a unique opportunity for an experienced Programme Director to drive a critical transformation programme, contributing to the evolution of financial services and shaping the future of data-driven decision-making.
