VP/Chief Architect
Description
We are a team of problem-solvers, architects and strategists who thrive on tackling complex business challenges with technology. As a premier consulting partner with multiple cloud and data providers, we pride ourselves on our collaborative, transparent and client-focused culture.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a visionary technology executive who has experience as a CTO or Chief Architect and a proven track record in delivering transformational data programs within a Retail or Commercial Banking environment. The successful candidate will have technical and business depth and be capable of managing multiple workstreams (data governance, data architecture/strategy consolidation and managed services).
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Transformation
- Define and execute an integrated virtual technology and data vision aligned with business priorities in commercial, treasury, and digital banking.
- Lead enterprise-wide modernization initiatives remotely, working with distributed architecture, engineering, and analytics teams.
- Build technology strategies that drive business agility and strengthen digital capabilities across client-facing and internal functions.
Enterprise Architecture & Core Banking Systems
- Oversee integration and modernization of remote-accessible core banking platforms, including CRM, lending, treasury, and ERP systems.
- Drive future-state architecture planning across cloud, microservices, and secure data access platforms.
- Manage third-party vendors and ensure technology delivery aligns with remote execution models.
Data & Analytics Strategy
- Build and operate a scalable virtual data environment (MDM, data lakes, regulatory reporting, and AI-ready platforms).
- Ensure delivery of analytics to support risk modeling, AML, liquidity forecasting, and customer lifecycle management.
- Lead cross-border data initiatives ensuring compliance with sovereignty, privacy, and audit requirements.
Regulatory Compliance & Data Governance
- Establish a best-in-class virtual data governance office to support Tier 2 banking obligations and OSFI/FINTRAC compliance.
- Oversee secure architecture design, privacy engineering, and audit readiness for virtual operations.
- Embed risk and compliance protocols across distributed teams and cloud-based infrastructure.
Data Architecture
- Design and maintain scalable, secure, and high-performance data architectures to support business applications and analytics.
- Develop data models, schemas, and pipelines to ensure data integrity, accessibility, and efficiency.
- Implement best practices for data governance, security, and compliance (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate data systems with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
Change Management
- Lead change management initiatives to ensure smooth adoption of new data systems and processes.
- Develop and execute stakeholder communication plans to align teams on data strategy changes.
- Train and upskill employees on new tools, workflows, and data practices to minimize disruption.
- Monitor and address resistance to change, ensuring high adoption rates and project success.
Data Migration
- Plan and execute complex data migration projects, ensuring minimal downtime and data integrity.
- Assess legacy systems, map data flows, and develop migration strategies for on-premises to cloud or hybrid environments.
- Validate migrated data for accuracy, consistency, and compliance with business requirements.
- Mitigate risks during migration through robust testing and rollback plans.
Virtual CTO Services
- Provide strategic technology leadership as a virtual CTO, advising on data-driven innovation and digital transformation.
- Align data architecture with business objectives, identifying opportunities for competitive advantage.
- Evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, blockchain) for integration into the data ecosystem.
- Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, presenting data strategies and ROI to stakeholders.
Required Qualifications:
- 20+ years in technology, enterprise architecture, and data roles with 5+ years leading virtual/global teams.
- Proven track record of successful transformation leadership in financial services or regulated banking environments.
- Strong experience with virtual enterprise platforms including cloud-native banking cores, CRM, and real-time analytics.
- Demonstrated success in managing post-merger integrations, digital transitions, and remote service delivery models.
- Master’s degree (EMBA preferred); STEM or Finance undergraduate background preferred.
Preferred Experience:
- AI/ML deployment in virtual environments (e.g., cloud-based underwriting, virtual agents, model governance).
- Expertise in Canadian and international banking regulations and cloud compliance frameworks.
- Board-facing and regulator-facing leadership experience in hybrid or remote-first organizations.
- Experience leading technology for FinTech, Tier 2 banks, or SaaS-based financial platforms.
Salary range is $150,000-$250,000 USD per year and will vary depending upon experience.