IT Programme Manager - Banking

A prominent financial institution in Kuala Lumpur is seeking an accomplished IT Programme Manager to spearhead its core banking modernisation initiatives. This pivotal role offers you the opportunity to lead transformative, multi-year programmes that will shape the future of digital banking, enhance operational resilience, and ensure regulatory compliance.

What you'll do:

As an IT Programme Manager - Core Banking Modernisation based in Kuala Lumpur's hybrid workplace environment, you will play a central role in orchestrating large-scale transformation projects that redefine how banking services are delivered. Your day-to-day responsibilities will involve guiding diverse teams through complex system replacements or enhancements while maintaining close engagement with senior stakeholders. You will be responsible for developing detailed programme roadmaps that address every aspect of delivery-from technical integration to change management-ensuring each workstream operates smoothly within agreed governance structures. By acting as the key liaison between business units, IT professionals and external partners (including regulators), you will foster a culture of open communication and shared accountability. Your expertise will be crucial in identifying risks early on and implementing robust mitigation strategies that protect both project outcomes and organisational reputation. Throughout each phase of the programme-from initial planning through post-launch stabilisation-you will champion quality assurance practices that guarantee reliable results. In addition to managing vendor relationships and budgets effectively, you will monitor benefits realisation so that every investment delivers measurable value for the institution.

• Guide the successful execution of core banking modernisation programmes from inception through post-implementation stabilisation, ensuring all milestones are met across multiple workstreams including application development, data migration, infrastructure upgrades, integration efforts, testing phases, and organisational change management.
• Define comprehensive programme roadmaps that detail key milestones, dependencies between workstreams, risk mitigation strategies, and robust governance frameworks to support transparent decision-making.
• Serve as the primary interface between business units, IT departments, third-party vendors, and regulatory bodies to facilitate clear communication and effective collaboration throughout the programme lifecycle.
• Provide regular updates to senior management and steering committees on programme progress, risks, issues requiring escalation, and benefit realisation metrics.
• Oversee technology transformation initiatives involving leading core banking platforms while managing seamless integration with surrounding systems including payments channels, AML solutions, risk management tools, data warehouses and reporting platforms.
• Ensure all modernisation activities align with enterprise architecture standards as well as security protocols and regulatory requirements specific to the financial services sector.
• Identify potential risks related to delivery timelines, vendor performance, data migration integrity or regulatory compliance; develop proactive mitigation plans to safeguard programme success.
• Drive quality assurance processes across all phases of testing-from initial validation through cutover planning-and oversee post-implementation stabilisation to ensure smooth transition into business-as-usual operations.
• Manage relationships with system integrators, software vendors and other third-party partners by overseeing contracts negotiations, budget allocations and commercial agreements.
• Track benefits realisation against established targets while monitoring cost efficiencies achieved through modernised systems.

What you bring:

To excel as an IT Programme Manager - Core Banking Modernisation in this forward-thinking financial institution based in Kuala Lumpur's hybrid setting, you will bring extensive experience leading major technology transformation projects within the banking sector. Your background should include hands-on involvement with core system replacements or enhancements-ideally spanning several years of direct programme management responsibility. A deep understanding of both retail and corporate banking operations is vital for navigating complex architectural landscapes while integrating new solutions seamlessly into existing ecosystems. You should possess a solid grasp of regulatory requirements unique to financial services environments along with proven expertise in risk identification and mitigation strategies. Your interpersonal skills must enable you to connect meaningfully with stakeholders at all levels-from executive leadership through technical specialists-while fostering a culture built on trustworthiness and shared commitment. Adaptability is key when operating within fast-moving transformation settings where priorities shift rapidly but quality remains paramount. Formal qualifications such as a bachelor's degree (and ideally PMP/PRINCE2/Agile certification) will further demonstrate your readiness for this challenging yet rewarding position.

• Demonstrated experience delivering large-scale IT programmes within financial institutions over 10-15+ years; at least 5+ years specifically in programme management roles focused on banking technology transformation.
• Proven ability to lead core banking modernisation initiatives involving system replacement or enhancement projects across multiple workstreams such as applications development, data migration or infrastructure upgrades.
• Comprehensive understanding of retail or corporate banking operations-including core banking architecture-and familiarity with surrounding ecosystems like payments channels or risk management platforms.
• Hands-on experience managing complex system migrations (including legacy modernisation) while ensuring data integrity throughout transition phases.
• Deep knowledge of regulatory frameworks governing financial services; adept at navigating compliance requirements related to audit standards or IT governance protocols.
• Exceptional stakeholder management skills enabling you to build trust-based relationships with senior leaders as well as technical teams; strong interpersonal communication abilities are essential for success in this role.
• Advanced problem-solving capabilities combined with rigorous governance oversight; able to resolve issues collaboratively while maintaining transparency across all levels of programme delivery.
• Experience operating within high-impact transformation environments where adaptability and responsiveness are valued traits; comfortable managing competing priorities under tight deadlines without compromising quality outcomes.
• Bachelor's degree in IT/Computer Science/Engineering (or related field) required; additional certifications such as PMP/PRINCE2/Agile preferred for demonstrating advanced programme management expertise.
• Mandatory: Background in banking or financial services sector is essential for understanding industry-specific challenges during technology transformation.

What sets this company apart:

This leading financial institution stands out for its unwavering commitment to technological advancement and operational excellence within the Malaysian market. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture where inclusive teamwork is not just encouraged but actively supported by knowledgeable leaders who prioritise professional development. Flexible working arrangements-including hybrid options-allow you to balance personal commitments alongside career ambitions without sacrificing productivity or growth opportunities. The organisation invests heavily in training programmes designed to keep staff up-to-date with industry best practices while nurturing talent from under-represented backgrounds. With access to cutting-edge resources and supportive leadership networks dedicated to helping you succeed at every stage of your journey, this is an ideal environment for those seeking long-term career progression within a dependable team setting.

What's next:

If you are ready to take on a transformative leadership role that shapes the future of digital banking in Malaysia's vibrant financial sector-apply now!

Apply today by clicking on the link provided below.

Do note that we will only be in touch if your application is shortlisted.

Agensi Pekerjaan Robert Walters Sdn Bhd
Business Registration Number : 729828-T
Licence Number : JTKSM 423C