AVP Core Banking

Job Purpose

The AVP, Core Banking - Retail Lead will oversee and manage the core banking retail operations. This role involves leading a team of six Managers, each responsible for different business functions within the core banking retail sector. The AVP will ensure that all retail banking operations are efficient, customer-focused, and aligned with the company's strategic goals.

Key Result Areas

• Lead the overall strategy and execution of the Core Banking transformation for Retail, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Establish and maintain strong governance frameworks to oversee project delivery, risk mitigation, and compliance adherence.
• Drive the "hollow the core" vision by minimizing customizations and promoting global standardization across geographies.
• Oversee end-to-end program delivery, ensuring milestones are met within defined timelines and budgets.
• Manage cross-functional teams and coordinate with senior stakeholders across Technology, Compliance, Risk, PMO, and Country Operations.
• Ensure high-impact automation and process optimization to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.
• Serve as the primary liaison between business units, technology teams, and executive leadership for all retail core banking initiatives.
• Facilitate collaboration across geographies and functions to ensure consistent implementation and adoption.
• Provide thought leadership in retail banking operations, driving innovation and adoption of best practices.
• Guide the design and implementation of digital onboarding, integration, and transformation journeys for retail products.
• Build and mentor a high-performing team with deep expertise in the new core banking platform.
• Promote agile methodologies and continuous learning to adapt to evolving business needs.
• Ensure all retail product implementations comply with regulatory requirements and internal risk frameworks.
• Oversee the development of robust controls and testing strategies to support secure and compliant delivery.
• Lead engagement with senior stakeholders across Retail, Technology, Risk, Compliance, and Operations to align on program objectives, timelines, and deliverables.
• Provide strategic oversight and regular updates on program progress, risks, dependencies, and mitigation plans to executive leadership and steering committees.
• Facilitate cross-functional meetings, workshops, and governance forums with internal stakeholders and external vendors to ensure alignment and timely decision-making.
• Establish and uphold robust governance frameworks to ensure transparency, accountability, and traceability across all program workstreams.
• Deliver structured reporting to senior management, highlighting key achievements, risk exposures, and critical path items requiring escalation or intervention.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of the core banking transformation program, including project plans, budgets, timelines, risk registers, and technical specifications.
• Monitor and track benefits realization against defined KPIs, and document lessons learned to drive continuous improvement and inform future transformation initiatives.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Deep understanding of end-to-end banking operations, products, and services across retail segments.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks, compliance standards, and risk management practices in the banking sector.
• Familiarity with financial instruments, market dynamics, and customer behavior trends.
• Expertise in core banking platforms (preferably Flexcube), including architecture, configuration, and deployment.
• Awareness of emerging technologies and digital transformation trends in core banking and retail financial services.
• Proven experience in large-scale system integration, data migration, and platform modernization.
• Advanced proficiency in program and project management, including planning, budgeting, scheduling, and performance tracking.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex risks, resolve issues, and ensure delivery within defined tolerances.
• Strong analytical and strategic problem-solving capabilities with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement.
• Experience in business analysis, requirements gathering, and translating business needs into scalable technical solutions.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.
• Experience in leading change management initiatives and driving adoption across diverse teams and geographies.
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing cross-functional teams in a matrixed environment.
• Proven track record of delivering successful core banking transformation programs across multiple geographies.
• 8+ years of experience in the banking or financial services industry, with significant exposure to core banking transformation and digital enablement.