Program Director

Job Description for Programme Director

Location: London, UK

SC Cleared: Required (A candidate with SC is preferred; must be at least SC eligible, Mastek can sponsor SC for the right candidate)

Job Type: Full-Time

Experience: 20-25 years

Job Overview:

We are seeking a highly experienced Programme Director to lead a major Data Modernization and Transformation programme for a large financial institution. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the entire programme lifecycle, from discovery, design to successful delivery within scope, budget, and time constraints. The Programme Director will work closely with senior business and technology stakeholders, including executives, to ensure that the programme aligns with strategic goals and objectives and is delivered on schedule with the highest quality. The candidate must demonstrate extensive experience of delivering end-to-end large and complex transformation programmes involving both technology and business change.

Responsibilities Include:

Program Management:

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the Data Modernization and Transformation programme.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive programme plan, including governance framework, project milestones, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
• Oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of program activities to ensure successful delivery.
• Set program budgets, track expenses, and report financial performance to senior management.
• Identify and mitigate program risks through effective risk management strategies.
• Establish program governance and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and policies.
• Coordinate and collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to ensure program success.

2. Stakeholder Engagement:

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key Technology and Business stakeholders, including executives, steering committee members, and external vendors.
• Engage with business stakeholders, helping them understand technology alignment to business outcomes and taking them on the transformation journey
• Serve as the main point of contact for stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and alignment on program goals and requirements.
• Facilitate regular meetings and workshops to ensure stakeholders are engaged and informed throughout the program lifecycle.
• Work closely with external vendors and contractors to ensure high-quality deliverables and effective collaboration.

Team Leadership:

• Manage a team of program managers, project managers, and other staff members to ensure effective delivery of program objectives.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
• Set performance expectations, provide coaching and mentoring, and conduct regular performance evaluations.

Program Reporting:

• Develop and deliver presentations, reports, and updates to internal and external stakeholders, including senior management and board of directors.
• Analyze program data and performance metrics to identify opportunities for improvement and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure program documentation is accurate, up-to-date, and complies with corporate standards and requirements.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, or related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 20 years of experience in successfully managing and delivering large programmes, including at least 1 large and complex transformation programme involving both technology and business change, preferably in the financial services domain.
• Proven track record of successfully leading large-scale data modernization and transformation initiatives.
• Strong understanding of data management principles and practices, including data governance, data quality, and data integration.
• Knowledge of technology platforms and solutions, preferably related to data management and analytics.
• Knowledge and experience of engaging with business stakeholders to drive business change within the organization
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively influence and engage with stakeholders at all levels, including senior and executive level business and IT stakeholders
• Strong understanding of banking operations, regulations, and industry trends.
• Strong business acumen and ability to align programmes with strategic goals and objectives.
• Proven ability to proactively identify risks and issues and develop effective mitigation strategies.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Successful track record of managing large budgets and controlling costs.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire team members to achieve program objectives.
• Relevant project management certifications, such as PMP, PRINCE2, or Agile, are highly desirable.