Senior Director - IT Consultancy For Financial Services - eFinancialCareers : Job Details

Job Title: Senior Director - IT Consultancy For Financial ServicesLocation: LondonSalary: £140000 - £200000Start Date: 01/01/2025Job Type: PermanentJob OverviewThe Senior Director will lead, strategise, and oversee complex IT transformation projects within Financial Services. This role requires deep sector expertise, a track record in delivering large-scale initiatives, and strong leadership skills. The ideal candidate will excel in managing high-performing teams, cultivating senior client relationships, and ensuring seamless execution of IT projects across diverse financial institutions.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership and Strategic Oversight

• Lead the consultancy's Financial Services division, setting strategic direction for client engagements, project delivery, and service development.
• Shape the vision for IT transformation initiatives to enhance business outcomes for clients.
• Build and lead a top-tier team of consultants, project managers, and technical experts to deliver exceptional results.
• Develop and sustain long-term relationships with C-suite and senior-level stakeholders across client organisations.

Project Delivery & Execution

• Ensure successful delivery of large-scale IT projects within established timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• Develop project plans covering scope, resources, and risk, aligning closely with clients' strategic goals.
• Monitor project progress, proactively address risks or challenges, and maintain open communication with clients.
• Implement project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid) suited to each project's needs.

Business Development & Client Expansion

• Drive business growth by identifying new opportunities within existing accounts and cultivating new client relationships in Financial Services.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing to create tailored propositions that expand the consultancy's reach in Financial Services.
• Develop and present thought leadership on emerging technologies, regulatory shifts, and best practices within IT for Financial Services.
• Support leadership in bid and proposal development, ensuring alignment with client needs.

Thought Leadership & Innovation

• Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies (AI, blockchain, cloud, fintech), and regulatory changes impacting Financial Services.
• Foster a culture of innovation, encouraging new methodologies and solutions for evolving client challenges.
• Represent the consultancy at industry events and conferences, positioning the firm as a thought leader in IT transformation for Financial Services.

Financial & Operational Management

• Ensure project profitability by closely monitoring financial performance and making necessary adjustments.
• Prepare and manage client budgets, maintaining cost control and adhering to financial parameters.
• Provide regular updates to senior leadership on project status, financial health, and client satisfaction.

Required Skills/ExperienceThe ideal candidate will have the following:Experience

• 10-15+ years in IT consulting, with substantial experience delivering complex projects within Financial Services (banking, insurance, asset management).
• Proven track record of leading IT transformation projects, including digital, cloud, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance.
• Deep knowledge of the Financial Services industry, relevant regulatory frameworks (e.g., GDPR, PSD2, MiFID II, Basel III), and emerging technologies.
• Extensive experience with commonly used IT solutions in Financial Services, including:
  • Core Banking Systems (CBS): Knowledge of platforms like Finacle, Temenos, and FIS, which are essential for managing accounts, transactions, and regulatory reporting.
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Familiarity with Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics for managing customer interactions and sales tracking.
  • Robotic Process Automation (RPA): Hands-on experience with UiPath, Automation Anywhere, or Blue Prism to automate repetitive tasks and enhance efficiency.
  • Blockchain & Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT): Expertise in blockchain applications for cryptocurrency, smart contracts, and decentralised finance.
  • Cloud Computing: Experience with AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud to enable scalable, secure infrastructure and cost-effective IT solutions.
  • Data Analytics & Business Intelligence (BI): Proficiency with Tableau, Power BI, or SAS for data analysis, strategic reporting, and predictive analytics.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML): Knowledge of AI/ML applications for fraud detection, customer service (e.g., chatbots), and personalised advice.
  • Cybersecurity Solutions: Familiarity with platforms from Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, or Check Point for threat detection and secure transactions.
  • Payment Processing Platforms: Understanding of VisaNet, Mastercard, Stripe, or PayPal for secure and efficient digital payments.
  • Regulatory Technology (RegTech): Experience with tools like Trulioo, ComplyAdvantage, and IdentityMind for compliance with KYC, AML, and GDPR regulations.
• Experience managing senior-level client relationships and driving business development to grow and secure accounts.

Leadership & Management

• Exceptional leadership abilities with experience building and managing cross-functional teams.
• Strong project management skills across Agile and Waterfall methodologies; PMP, PRINCE2, or similar certifications are advantageous.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex concepts to diverse stakeholders.

Business Development & Financial Skills

• Proven experience in business development, proposal preparation, and presenting to potential clients.
• Strong financial acumen, with demonstrated success managing project budgets and ensuring profitability.
• Proven capability to drive client engagement and expand existing accounts.

Attributes & Skills