We are seeking a seasoned Senior Project Manager to join our software consulting division, operating directly on-site at our premium banking client. In this role, you will represent the company while leading complex integration and backend development projects. You will drive the end-to-end Waterfall delivery of middleware solutions using the IBM Cloud Pak for Integration (CP4I) stack and Java-based microservices. This position requires exceptional client-facing leadership to orchestrate delivery across a hybrid onshore/offshore model, managing project baselines, supporting non-functional testing teams, and handling production defect fixes.
Ready to apply for roles like this?
Unlock the company name and direct application link. Subscribers get instant access to fresh jobs across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, many with visa support.
Unlock employer & apply directly
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Work Conditions: On-site, Full-time
Key Responsibilities:
- Client Relationship & Vendor Governance
- Act as the primary interface between delivery teams and the bank's internal IT and business stakeholders.
- Manage client expectations concerning timelines, deliverables, scope changes, and resource utilization.
- Navigate internal governance to secure phase-gate sign-offs within a strict Waterfall framework.
- Technical Project Delivery (CP4I & Java)
- Drive the delivery of integration solutions leveraging the IBM CP4I stack (MQ, App Connect Enterprise, API Connect).
- Oversee backend development of scalable, secure banking microservices utilizing Java frameworks (e.g., Spring Boot).
- Orchestrate tasks and maximize productivity across a hybrid team structure, combining on-site/onshore consultants and offshore delivery centers.
- Maintain detailed project schedules, critical path baselines, and audit-ready project documentation.
- Testing Support & Defect Management
- Direct functional testing phases, including System Integration Testing (SIT) and client-led User Acceptance Testing (UAT).
- Support Non-Functional Testing (NFT) by coordinating environment readiness and dedicating development resources to fix performance, load, or security issues identified by the bank’s independent testing teams.
- Own production defect fixes within the project scope, ensuring quick triage, resolution, and deployment under the bank's strict change management processes.
- Risk & Compliance
- Proactively identify technical risks or blockers related to legacy core banking connectivity and API integration.
- Ensure code and integration flows comply with the bank’s internal information security policies and external central bank regulations.
Requirements & Qualifications:
- Experience & Methodology
- 10+ years of IT project management experience, with 7+ years working for a software development vendor/consulting firm deployed at a banking client.
- Expertise in Waterfall project management, with a proven track record of managing strict timelines, scopes, and budget constraints.
- Demonstrated experience managing hybrid models, effectively coordinating onshore client-facing teams and offshore development units.
- Technical & Professional Skills
- Hands-on experience managing projects utilizing IBM CP4I components (ACE, MQ, API Connect).
- Strong understanding of Java backend ecosystems, microservices architecture, and containerized deployment (e.g., Red Hat OpenShift).
- Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills to navigate vendor-client dynamics.
- Proficiency with enterprise tools such as MS Project, Jira, and Confluence.
- Education & Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.
- PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2 Practitioner certification is required.
