Job Description

The role of this individual is to be part of the core banking transformation program team by proactively driving the delivery of a next-generation Core Banking platform for Mashreq. Individual will be responsible for the end-to-end management (from start of the program till implementation across 6 geographies) and timely completion of Core Banking Program for Business/Function.

The purpose of this role is large-scale transformation of core banking systems across all business units and functions. This pivotal position requires a dynamic and strategic leader who can drive the modernization efforts essential for enhancing operational efficiency, customer experience, and overall business agility.

Given the critical nature of core banking systems in the financial ecosystem, this transformation is imperative to maintaining competitive advantage, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering innovation. Part of the team, collaborate with key stakeholders, and leverage cutting-edge technologies to deliver a seamless and robust transformation that aligns with the organization's strategic objectives.

This role is central to the bank's future success and sustainability, demanding exceptional expertise, vision, and execution capabilities.

Key Result Areas

• Responsible and accountable for the respective business/function representing the core banking program.

• Perform business analysis to minimize customizations and maximize global consistency and standardization of products across various geographies.

• Manage project scope and control changes based on approved requests.

• Interact with various disciplinary teams and senior management across departments.

• Ensure high financial impact through optimal automation.

• Address compliance/risk implications.

• Define, design and finalize test cases and test plans for the unit.

• Engage with stakeholders across business units and geographies.

• Maintain strong project governance for all activities.

• Deliver project outcomes as per agreed timelines and costs.

• Plan and execute multiple rounds of testing prior to implementation.

• Maintain documentation of all processes, including changes.

• Adapt Program Management to an Agile Working model.

• Develop talent specializing in the new core banking platform for Mashreq.

• Align Technology, COEs, Country Ops Heads, PMO, Compliance, Risk, and ISG with challenges and work streams of implementing the Core upgrade.

• Develop a comprehensive project plan with a clear RACI matrix.

• Utilize strong interpersonal skills to assess problems, analyze options, and navigate diverse perspectives.

• Execute the program's strategy, minimizing customization, and adhering to the "hollow the Core" concept within the project timeline.

• Provide thought leadership and implement best practices and innovative solutions in banking operations.

• Manage a cross-functional team across different locations while ensuring task consistency.

• Design processes and controls to ensure on-time and on-budget project delivery within risk tolerances.

• Develop/Manage/Provide the business scenarios/vision for Retail Products implementation (including mortgages) and clearly share the acceptance criteria.

• Possess adequate/in depth understanding of Retail products (including mortgages), example: elements needed for a loan processing & disbursal.

• Ensure/Lead project and comply with regulatory requirements for implementation/transformation of retail products.

• Lead/possess understating of Digital journey onboarding/integration/implementation and transformation for retail products with core platforms

Operating Environment, Framework and Boundaries, Working Relationships

• Manage senior stakeholder expectations and provide regular updates on program progress, risks, and issues.

• Facilitate meetings, workshops, and status updates with internal stakeholders and external partners.

• Establish and maintain governance frameworks for deliverables, ensuring accountability and transparency.

• Deliver reports to senior management and stakeholders, detailing progress, key achievements, risks, and challenges.

• Maintain comprehensive documentation of the upgrade program, including project plans, timelines, budgets, and technical specifications.

• Track project benefits realization and document lessons learned to feed into ongoing improvements.

Problem Solving

• Break down complex issues to identify key information and options.

• Discuss and resolve problems collaboratively.

• Recommend solutions for system, business process, best practices.

• Balance team and stakeholder needs for optimal outcomes.

• Change control disciplines.

• Audit, security, and regulatory compliance knowledge.

• Information security operations and incident management.

• Budgetary and vendor negotiation/management.
• People management, interpersonal issues, and staff motivation

Decision Making Authority & Responsibility

• Responsible to the respective unit scope and solution in core banking and ability to take decision and align with the stakeholders.
• Functional solutions to business requirements.
• Use effective judgement to weigh different options for achieving better results within appropriate timeframes.
• Highlight any concerns affecting workplace deliverables.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Understanding of banking operations, products, and services

• Knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements in the banking sector

• Familiarity with financial instruments and markets

• In-depth knowledge of core banking software and platforms

• Awareness of emerging technologies and trends in core banking

• Knowledge of system integration and data migration methodologies

• Proficiency in project planning, scheduling, and monitoring

• Ability to manage project risks and issues effectively

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Experience in requirements gathering and documentation

• Ability to bridge the gap between business needs and technical solutions

• Skills in stakeholder management and communication

• Experience in developing and executing change management strategies

• Ability to foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement

• 10+ years of experience working in the banking or financial services industry and associated part of large-scale core banking transformation (preferably Flexcube)

• Experience in managing core banking transformation projects

• Experience in implementing and supporting core banking systems

• Proven track record of successful system integrations and data migrations

• Experience in leading and managing cross-functional teams

• Ability to collaborate with various stakeholders, including senior management, IT, and business units

• Strong leadership skills to drive transformation and achieve strategic objectives.