Project Manager

About the Role :

As a Project Manager at Cortex, you will be instrumental in leading the successful delivery of complex banking application projects. You will be responsible for managing the entire project lifecycle, from initiation to closure, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This role requires a unique blend of technical understanding and business acumen, as you will serve as the crucial link between business requirements and technical implementation.

Key Responsibilities :

- End-to-End Project Management : Oversee and manage all phases of the project lifecycle, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, control, and closure, ensuring successful delivery aligned with project goals and business objectives.

- Techno-Functional Leadership : Act as a techno-functional lead, effectively bridging the gap between business stakeholders and technical teams. Translate business requirements into technical specifications and guide technical teams in developing solutions that meet functional needs.

- Stakeholder Management : Collaborate closely with a diverse range of stakeholders, including clients, business analysts, developers, quality assurance testers, and senior management, to ensure seamless communication, effective collaboration, and smooth project execution and delivery.

- Project Planning & Monitoring : Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope, schedule, budget, and resource allocation. Monitor project progress rigorously, track key performance indicators, and ensure strict adherence to defined project parameters.

- Risk & Issue Management : Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate project risks and issues. Implement effective risk response strategies and ensure transparent communication and timely resolution of all project impediments.

- Change Management : Manage project changes effectively, following established change control processes, and ensuring all stakeholders are informed and aligned on scope adjustments.

- Reporting & Communication : Provide regular, accurate, and concise project status reports to all relevant stakeholders. Facilitate effective communication channels to ensure all team members and stakeholders are well-informed and engaged throughout the project.

Required Skills and Qualifications :

- Project Management Expertise : Proven track record of successfully managing the full lifecycle of complex IT projects, preferably within the banking or financial services domain.

- Techno-Functional Acumen : Demonstrated ability to understand, analyze, and drive both the technical and functional aspects of a project. Experience in translating business requirements into technical solutions and vice versa.

- Banking Domain Knowledge : Strong, in-depth experience with various banking applications and systems, including but not limited to :

1. Loans Management Systems

2. Core Banking Systems (CBS)

3. Cheque Truncation System (CTS)

4. Payment Gateways and Systems

5. Digital Banking Channels (e.g., mobile banking, internet banking)

- Certifications (Highly Desirable) : Possessing industry-recognized project management certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), PRINCE2, or Scrum Master certification will be a significant advantage.

- Exceptional Communication Skills : Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to articulate complex technical and business concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences. Capable of engaging effectively and building strong relationships with clients and internal cross-functional teams.

- Tools Proficiency : Strong working knowledge and hands-on experience with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel (for data analysis and tracking), Word (for documentation), PowerPoint (for presentations), and Microsoft Project (for project planning and scheduling).

Preferred Qualifications :

- Multi-Project Management : Demonstrated ability to effectively manage and prioritize multiple complex projects simultaneously while maintaining high standards of delivery.

- Client Engagement : Prior experience working directly with banking clients or other financial institutions, understanding their unique needs and challenges.

- Agile & Hybrid Methodologies : Familiarity and practical experience with Agile and/or Hybrid project delivery methodologies.