We are looking to recruit an experienced Senior Project Manager to lead enterprise banking software implementations for strategic client banks. This role manages complex, multi-phase projects from initiation through deployment and post-launch support, serving as the primary driver for execution with direct accountability for on-time, within-scope, and high-quality delivery. Reports to PMO Head/Operations Manager.
Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end project lifecycle from initiation through deployment and closure.
- Develop comprehensive project plans (scope, schedule, resources, risks, budget) with performance tracking against baselines.
- Monitor schedule, budget, and quality metrics; prepare status reports with progress, budget, schedule, risks, and escalations.
- Coordinate with development, QA, infrastructure, and support teams for seamless execution; facilitate progress through regular meetings and proactive issue resolution.
- Lead post-implementation reviews to capture lessons learned and support knowledge sharing.
- Serve as primary contact for assigned client banks; lead steering committee meetings and provide regular status updates.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with strategic and operational stakeholders; manage client expectations with clear, timely communication on progress, changes, and risks.
- Coordinate UAT, manage environment readiness, ensure client sign-off on critical milestones, and facilitate alignment between client and delivery teams on requirements.
- Identify, analyze, and monitor project risks; develop and implement mitigation strategies.
- Manage scope changes through formal change control processes.
- Ensure comprehensive, audit-ready documentation with traceability across application, database, configuration, and infrastructure; maintain adherence to ProgressSoft PM standards, banking compliance requirements, and quality standards.
- Conduct quality reviews with technical leads and QA teams.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, Software Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
- 8–12 years progressive project/program management experience; 5+ years managing complex enterprise software implementations in banking or financial services.
- Proven track record delivering large-scale, multi-phase projects with regulatory oversight in Central Bank or financial regulatory environments.
- Demonstrated ability coordinating geographically distributed teams; experience with banking software (payment systems, core banking, financial infrastructure).
- Strong knowledge of PM methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, Hybrid), PMBOK/PRINCE2 frameworks, and SDLC/QA processes.
- Knowledge of banking domain (instant payments, payment hubs, clearing systems, mandate management), banking regulations, and Central Bank frameworks (particularly Qatar Central Bank).
- Basic understanding of API integrations, system configurations, database management, and infrastructure.
- Proficiency with PM tools (MS Project, JIRA, Zoho Projects) and strong data analysis, reporting, and visualization skills.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication at all organizational levels; strong leadership and team motivation.
- Superior problem-solving and decision-making under pressure with meticulous attention to detail.
- Strong organizational and time management; ability to handle multiple priorities with cross-cultural awareness for diverse, international environments.
- Excellent written and verbal communication in Arabic and English; results-driven focus on delivery excellence.
Preferred Qualifications
- PMP or additional certifications (PRINCE2 Practitioner, CSM, SAFe, PgMP, PfMP).
- Experience with ProgressSoft product portfolio or banking software solutions.
- Project implementation experience in Qatar or GCC region.
- Background in consulting or professional services with banking clients.
- Experience with agile transformation or hybrid delivery methodologies.
- Knowledge of emerging fintech technologies (cloud computing, API economies).