Head of Project and Innovation

The Head of Project and Innovation is responsible for leading the Bank's strategic project portfolio and driving innovation initiatives aligned with the Bank's corporate objectives. The role oversees the planning, coordination and delivery of strategic projects, ensuring effective governance, optimal resource utilisation and achievement of intended business outcomes. The position also drives the identification, evaluation and adoption of innovative technologies and solutions to enhance operational efficiency, improve customer experience and strengthen the Bank's competitive positioning.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and oversee the Bank's strategic project portfolio, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and business priorities.
• Manage the Project Management Office (PMO), establishing effective project governance, methodologies, standards and reporting frameworks.
• Ensure timely delivery of projects within approved budgets, scope, quality standards and agreed timelines.
• Drive digital transformation, business process improvement and organisational change initiatives across the Bank.
• Identify, evaluate and promote emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Machine Learning and Robotic Process Automation.
• Develop and manage an innovation pipeline, from idea generation and proof of concept to implementation and deployment.
• Monitor project risks, resource allocation, budgets, dependencies and benefits realisation.
• Collaborate with business units and technology teams to identify opportunities for innovation, automation and operational improvement.
• Develop business cases and assess the feasibility, value and potential benefits of proposed projects and innovative solutions.
• Ensure projects and innovation initiatives comply with applicable regulatory requirements, information security, data privacy and operational resilience standards.
• Lead, motivate and develop a high-performing project management and innovation team.

PREREQUISITES:

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Information Systems, Technology Management or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the Bank.
• Professional certification in Project or Programme Management (PMP or equivalent).
• Agile delivery certification such as SAFe, Certified Scrum Master or PMI-ACP would be an advantage.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in project management, technology, innovation or transformation, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership position.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale strategic projects and transformation programmes, preferably within the banking or financial services sector.
• Demonstrated experience in managing project portfolios, budgets, business cases and strategic initiatives.
• Sound knowledge of project management methodologies, including Agile, Waterfall and Hybrid approaches.
• Experience in innovation management, digitalisation and the implementation of technology-driven business solutions.

SKILLS:

• Strategic thinking and business acumen.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent project and programme management capabilities.
• Innovation mindset and ability to identify opportunities for business improvement.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Knowledge of digital technologies and emerging technology trends.
• Strong planning, organisational and decision-making skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Strong collaboration, influencing and relationship management skills.
• Results-oriented approach with a focus on delivery and continuous improvement.