Banking Systems Operations Lead

Job Purpose

The Banking Systems Operations Lead is responsible for overseeing the stability, performance, and efficient operation of the Bank’s Core Banking System (CBS) and all related banking applications and peripheral systems.

The role ensures seamless day-to-day operations, system availability, incident resolution, and coordination of technical support activities while driving continuous improvement in banking systems performance and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

Systems Operations & Support

• Lead the daily operations and support of Core Banking Systems (CBS) and related applications.
• Ensure continuous system availability, performance, and stability across production and non-production environments.
• Monitor system health and proactively address potential issues before service disruption occurs.
• Coordinate resolution of system incidents in line with agreed Service Level Agreements (SLAs).

Incident & Problem Management

• Manage and coordinate incident response and escalation processes.
• Conduct root cause analysis for recurring system issues and implement preventive measures.
• Liaise with internal teams and external vendors to ensure timely resolution of technical problems.

Change & Release Management

• Oversee implementation of system changes, upgrades, and patches.
• Ensure proper testing, validation, and approval of all changes before deployment.
• Maintain system integrity across production, UAT, and disaster recovery environments.

Performance Monitoring & Optimization

• Continuously monitor system performance and recommend improvements.
• Identify opportunities for automation and operational efficiency enhancements.
• Ensure optimal utilization of system resources and infrastructure.

Stakeholder & Vendor Management

• Coordinate with internal ICT teams, business units, and external vendors to ensure smooth system operations.
• Manage vendor deliverables and ensure compliance with contractual SLAs.
• Provide regular operational reports to management and key stakeholders.

Business Continuity & Risk Management

• Support implementation and testing of Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCP/DR) plans.
• Ensure systems are secure, stable, and compliant with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
• Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies.

Skills, Knowledge & Competencies

• Strong understanding of Core Banking Systems (CBS) and banking operations.
• Solid experience in incident, problem, and change management processes.
• Knowledge of SQL, Unix/Linux systems, and banking application support.
• Strong analytical and root cause analysis skills.
• Good understanding of system monitoring tools and IT service management (ITSM) frameworks.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure, 24/7 operational environments.

Academic & Professional Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Professional certifications in ITIL, IT Service Management, or related fields are an added advantage.
  

Experience Required

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in banking systems support or ICT operations, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Experience supporting Core Banking Systems in a banking or fintech environment is highly desirable.