VP/Chief Architect

ArchitectureHybrid Remote, New Jersey, New Jersey


Description

Position at Ness USA, Inc.

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.