Head, Core Technology at Interswitch

JOB PURPOSE

Manage the effective deployment of solutions through the combined application of software engineering and systems administration practices to create and redesign broad technical infrastructure and information systems to support the needs of the organization. Ensure stability and scalability, drive the overall availability, reliability and resiliency of Interswitch systems while anticipating capacity growth through careful planning and awareness of trends.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Direct and oversee infrastructure developments and maintenance to ensure the continuous availability, reliability and stability of all applications to ensure minimal downtime and disruption to business operations
• Determine the vision and strategy for Interswitch Core Technology in line with Enterprise architecture and overall business objectives. Develop a strategic architecture plan ensuring data features are prioritized appropriately, estimates are reliable, benefits can be realized, and design activities are proactively monitored and tracked
• Lead definition of architectural standards for all technology services and components (applications, data, integration, technology, security, business). Present business and IT leaders with signature-ready recommendations for adjusting policies and projects to achieve target business outcomes that capitalize on relevant digital disruptions.
• Elicit the most complex business requirements using a variety of methods such as interviews, document analysis, workshops, and workflow analysis to express the requirements in terms of target user roles and goals.
• Identify and communicate the actions needed to implement the function's strategy and business plan within the business area or department; explain the relationship to the broader organization's mission, vision and values; motivate people to commit to these and to doing extraordinary things to achieve local business goals.
• Drive the security of all applications, ensuring that the appropriate security program is in place to minimizes breeches and ensure the uninterrupted availability of the infrastructure. Lead in detecting and analyzing identified vulnerabilities and remediate any security gaps in line with the security incident management procedure.
• Develop, implement and drive adherence to business activities within the area of responsibility comply with relevant external regulatory technology governance, and internal policies to minimize business risk and to protect the reputation of the organization.
• Manage and report on the performance of a substantial, diverse team; set appropriate performance objectives for direct reports or project / account team members and hold them accountable for achieving these; take appropriate corrective action where necessary to ensure the achievement of team / personal objectives.
• Use the organization's formal development framework to identify the team's individual development needs. Enable the team to deliver by providing technical guidance, coaching, development and feedback to ensure that they are able to deliver the required quality while also contributing to their engagement.
• Develop and/or deliver budget plans with guidance from senior colleagues.

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES

• Holds self and others accountable to meet commitments. For example, measures and tracks team's and own performance, and helps the team learn from success, failure, and feedback. Adheres to, and enforces, goals, policies, and procedures.
• Makes sense of complex, high quantity, and sometimes contradictory information to effectively solve problems. For example, asks questions to encourage others to think differently and enrich their analyses of complex situations. Accurately defines the key elements of complex, ambiguous situations.
• Applies knowledge of business and the marketplace to advance the organization's goals. For example, leverages insights to shape and drive critical initiatives. Shares industry developments with the team; helps them grasp business and industry fundamentals and understand how they contribute.
• Develops and delivers multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences. For example, tailors communication content and style to the needs of others. Pays attention to others' input and perspectives, asks questions, and summarizes to confirm understanding.
• Operates effectively, even when things are not certain or the way forward is not clear. For example, remains calm and positive and keeps others focused during transitions or chaotic situations. Provides coaching or support to keep people moving forward despite incomplete information.
• Knows the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement. For example, encourages and rewards continuous improvement and quality outcomes. Equips others to handle day-to-day tasks effectively on their own. Integrates systems to improve quality and service.
• Plans and prioritizes work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals. For example, stays focused on plans and improvises in response to changes, including risks and contingencies. Aligns own team's work with other workgroups'. Looks ahead to determine and obtain needed resources to complete plans.
• Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm. For example, takes timely action on important or difficult issues. Identifies and pursues new opportunities that benefit the organization.
• Creates new and better ways for the organization to be successful. For example, motivates others to find new and better ways to address challenges; provides support and resources for promising ideas. Encourages people to incorporate varied perspectives to strengthen the innovation process.
• Builds strong-identity teams that apply their diverse skills and perspectives to achieve common goals. For example, connects with others on team projects and leverages their strengths and knowledge to deliver the best possible results.
• Champions the decisions of the team and operates in a way that builds team spirit.
• Uses compelling arguments to gain the support and commitment of others. For example, gives many insightful suggestions and offers thoughtful positions, once informed about the issues. Thinks carefully and solicits insight into how to build a compelling argument that resonates with others' interests.

EDUCATION:

First Degree in Computer Science or related field.

EXPERIENCE:

Wide and deep experience providing expert competence (Over 10 years to 15 years). Experience of planning, managing and organizing resources within short / medium timescales within the overall policy framework. (Over 6 years to 10 years)