Job Specifications
Working closely with the CTO, the Infrastructure and Network Lead is responsible for designing, managing, and optimizing cloud-based network environments across both primary and secondary (disaster recovery) regions. This role exists to ensure the bank’s technology backbone remains resilient, secure, and scalable as business demands evolve and regulatory requirements increase.
Responsibilities:
· Support the development and implementation of a modern technology strategy aligned with the Bank’s business objectives, digital transformation goals, regulatory obligations, and risk appetite.
· Contribute to the design, implementation, and maintenance of the Bank’s technology infrastructure, including core banking systems, digital channels, payment systems, and cloud platforms (e.g., Microsoft Azure).
· Translate business and product requirements into clear technical specifications, ensuring stakeholder alignment across business, risk, compliance, and technology functions.
· Strengthen information security and cyber risk frameworks, ensuring compliance with the Data Protection Act (DPA), UK GDPR, and PRA/FCA operational resilience requirements.
· Support adherence to UK regulatory and industry standards for IT risk management, digital operational resilience, and technology governance.
· Maintain an effective technology governance framework encompassing risk assessments, policies, procedures, audits, and incident management.
· Monitor developments in open banking and fintech, identifying opportunities for strategic collaboration and digital enhancement.
· Assist in managing the technology budget and resource allocation, ensuring effective utilisation of group and offshore development resources.
· Support the recruitment, development, and retention of technology professionals, promoting continuous learning and regulatory awareness within the team.
· Provide strategic advice and support to the CTO and senior leadership on technology-related initiatives that drive business efficiency and regulatory compliance.
· Represent the Bank in industry forums and working groups to shape best practice and enhance the Bank’s visibility as a technology-driven institution.
· Manage relationships with technology vendors and service providers, ensuring contractual performance, value for money, and alignment with business and regulatory requirements.
Technical Requirements
Minimum 15 years’ experience in IT infrastructure or technology leadership, including at least 5 years in a senior role within UK banking or financial services.
Proven expertise in network architecture, hybrid cloud environments, and multi-region deployments (Microsoft Azure preferred, including ExpressRoute connectivity).
Strong background in Windows and Linux server administration, cybersecurity, disaster recovery, and regulatory compliance.
Demonstrable experience integrating on-premises and cloud-based systems to deliver resilient, secure, and scalable technology platforms.
In-depth understanding of UK financial services regulations, including PRA/FCA operational resilience, data protection (UK GDPR, DPA), and IT risk management standards.
Prior experience in software engineering or system architecture, ideally within digital banking or technology-driven financial services.
Skilled in vendor and stakeholder management, with experience overseeing external service providers and technology partners.
Strong project leadership capability, with a track record of delivering complex IT programmes within budget and regulatory timelines.
Knowledge of DevOps practices, Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools (e.g., Terraform, CloudFormation), and containerisation (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to present technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (Master’s or MBA desirable).
Proven leadership and management training with experience in strategic and team development.
Professional certification in cloud or infrastructure technologies (e.g., Azure Solutions Architect, AWS, or CCNP).
Security or risk management certification (e.g., CISSP, CCSP) with strong understanding of regulatory frameworks.
Proficiency in Agile or project management methodologies (e.g., PMP, Scrum).