A leading bank is hiring Cards Programme Manager for a 12 month contract

Department: Cards & Payments / Technology Delivery / Digital BankingReports To: Head of Delivery / CIOType: ContractProven expertise in programme and project managementStrong background in card project management (both issuing and acquiring)Experience with regulatory card complianceDemonstrated ability to lead end-to-end project implementationsJob PurposeThe Cards Delivery Lead / Programme Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing the end-to-end delivery of card-related programmes and projects — including debit, credit, and prepaid card initiatives. This role ensures successful delivery of new card products, system implementations, migrations, regulatory changes, and technology enhancements across issuing and acquiring platforms. The position acts as the bridge between business, technology, and third-party vendors to deliver outcomes aligned to strategic objectives, timelines, and budgets.Key Responsibilities1. Programme & Project ManagementLead the planning, execution, and delivery of multiple card-related projects (e.g., card issuing, acquiring, switching, tokenization, and digital wallet integrations).Define programme governance, delivery roadmaps, and milestones in line with strategic goals.Manage dependencies, risks, and inter-project impacts across business and technology workstreams.Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to scope and quality standards.2. Stakeholder & Vendor ManagementServe as the primary contact for all card programme stakeholders (business, IT, operations, compliance, risk, and external partners).Manage relationships with card schemes (Visa, Mastercard), processors, and technology vendors.Facilitate communication between technical teams, product owners, and senior executives.3. Business Analysis & Solution DeliveryWork with business units to define requirements and translate them into functional and technical specifications.Oversee solution design and ensure alignment with enterprise architecture standards.Support testing, implementation, and post-launch reviews of card products and services.4. Governance & ReportingEstablish strong governance and reporting frameworks for project delivery.Track and report progress, budgets, risks, and benefits realization to senior management.Ensure compliance with internal project management methodologies (Agile/Waterfall/Hybrid).5. Leadership & Team ManagementLead cross-functional delivery teams, including business analysts, developers, QA, and external vendors.Mentor and coach project managers and delivery leads within the cards domain.Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Qualifications & Experience5+ years of experience in programme or project management within financial services, preferably in Cards or Payments.Proven experience managing large-scale card system implementations, migrations, or integrations.Strong understanding of card issuing and acquiring ecosystems, including switching, tokenization, EMV, and settlement processes.Experience working with Visa, Mastercard, or other global payment schemes.Certifications such as PMP, PRINCE2, Agile (Scrum/SAFe) are advantageous.Key CompetenciesExcellent stakeholder and vendor management skills.Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.Deep understanding of card systems, payment processing, and digital banking.Effective communication and presentation skills.High level of resilience and ability to manage pressure in fast-paced environments.Strategic thinking with strong delivery discipline.Preferred Experience (Nice to Have)Exposure to digital card issuance, mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Samsung Pay), and API-based ecosystems.Experience with core banking and card management systems (CMS) like TSYS, FIS, HPS PowerCARD, or OpenWay.Familiarity with regulatory frameworks (PCI-DSS, PSD2, SARB, POPIA).