Vice President, Senior Transformation & Strategic Program Lead

RAKBANK; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading bank in the UAE is seeking a specialist to oversee and drive Bank-wide transformation initiatives. The role demands extensive experience in program management, particularly within outsourcing and offshoring initiatives. You will drive strategic outsourcing strategies while optimizing processes for enhanced operational efficiency. The ideal candidate has an MBA, proven track records in transformation, and strong knowledge of CBUAE regulatory frameworks.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in banking program management.
• 3–5 years in outsourcing / offshoring initiatives.
• Strong understanding of CBUAE regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and drive implementation of Bank-wide transformation initiatives.
• Execute automation and digitization projects to enhance operational efficiency.
• Manage Shared Services Center delivery and ensure compliance with regulations.

Skills

Strategic Thinking & Execution

Project Management

Stakeholder Management

Analytical & Financial Acumen

Change Management & Digitization

Communication & Leadership

Education

MBA or equivalent professional degree

Certified Agile or Scrum Master

Job description

About the role

In this role, you will oversee and drive the implementation of Bank-wide transformation initiatives. The role encompasses defining and executing the Strategic Outsourcing roadmap, including planning, delivery, and performance monitoring across business and enablement functions. You will work closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure seamless integration of the new operating model.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead the oversight and implementation of Bank-wide Transformation initiatives under the COO’s office.
• Drive Strategic Outsourcing Strategy, including planning, execution, and monitoring progress across business and enablement functions.
• Consolidate and optimize processes to deliver cost and headcount efficiencies, ensuring seamless integration of the new operating model.
• Manage Shared Services Center delivery, including governance, training, and operating model implementation.
• Execute automation and digitization projects to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.
• Develop and monitor governance frameworks for outsourcing / offshoring, ensuring compliance with CBUAE regulations.
• Liaise with internal teams and external vendors for system implementation and premises co-location.
• Identify synergies across programs and continuously explore digitization opportunities to improve service levels.

What We’re Looking For

Education: MBA or equivalent professional degree. Certified Agile or Scrum Master.

Experience: Minimum 10 years in banking program management with 3–5 years in outsourcing / offshoring initiatives.

Proven track record in organizational transformation, digital adoption, and managing large, distributed teams.

Industry: Knowledge of banking and financial services.

Strong understanding of CBUAE regulatory frameworks.

Skills

• Strategic Thinking & Execution: Ability to design and implement transformation and outsourcing strategies.
• Project Management: Expertise in governance, controls, and E2E delivery.
• Stakeholder Management: Influence and collaborate with senior internal and external stakeholders.
• Analytical & Financial Acumen: Skilled in cost-benefit analysis and KPI-driven performance tracking.
• Change Management & Digitization: Experience in lean methodologies and automation initiatives.
• Communication & Leadership: Build partnerships, drive accountability, and inspire teams.