Head of Implementation.GTB-Management-Shared.Corporate & Investment Banking Group

The purpose of this role is to lead the complex Client Implementation function within Global Transaction Banking (GTB) Channels and work closely with large corporate clients to implement complex deals and mandates. This role is pivotal in delivering seamless client onboarding on corporate Channels – Host to Host, APIs, SWIFT, NEO CORP (Web & Mobile), and activation of large client mandates across Cash Management and Trade Finance, with a strong focus on deal implementation, handholding & training clients and fast-tracking revenue enablement.This is a client facing role, with team management responsibilities to fast track complex deal enablement and execute client mandates with the help of Implementation Managers, hence needs to be based in the UAE. The incumbent will work closely with large corporate clients based in the UAE and other GCC markets, collaborate with GTB Sales, Coverage/Relationship Managers, Channels, Product, Technology, and Operations to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of client solutions, accelerating revenue realization and enhancing client satisfaction.This role is central to support business growth by accelerating implementations of client mandates across the UAE and GCC, ensuring timely execution, client satisfaction, operational excellence, and fast-track revenue growth through our corporate digital channels.Client connectivity and Mandate delivery Lead the end-to-end implementation of large and complex mandates involving Host-to-Host (H2H), SWIFT, APIs, and online banking platforms (Web & mobile)Collaborate closely with GTB Sales and Coverage (RM) teams to understand the connectivity requirements, support them in client conversations, RFPs and pre-implementation engagementsManage multi-country rollouts and cross-border implementations, ensuring compliance with local and international standards.Ensure seamless delivery of end-to-end digital ecosystem solutions for large corporate clients, and drive client onboarding and adoption of digital solutionsInstitutionalize feedback loops and post-implementation reviews to refine processes, improve delivery velocity, and embed learnings into future rollouts. Client EngagementWork closely with clients in the UAE and GCC region to understand their requirements, engage client’s Treasury/Finance and Technical project teams to create and mutually agree a deal implementation plan Act as the primary point of contact for clients during the implementation phase, ensuring clear communication, proactive issue resolution, and alignment with client expectations.Conduct solution workshops and readiness assessments with client stakeholders at their premises, guide and lead the integration of our Product and Services through GTB Channels. Revenue AccelerationFast-track enablement of client solutions to ensure early revenue capture and reduced time-to-market.Monitor implementation KPIs and SLAs, ensuring timely delivery and client activation.Team LeadershipManage and mentor a team of Implementation Managers based in the UAE, fostering a high-performance culture focused on client success.Allocate resources effectively across projects and ensure continuous skill development within the team. Partnership and Stakeholder ManagementPartner with Coverage and GTB Sales teams in Cash Management and Trade Finance to understand client requirements and tailor implementation plans.Collaborate with Product, Channels, Technology and Operations to ensure readiness of systems, integration capabilities, and support structures in place. Solution EnablementEnsure clients are equipped with the most appropriate digital channel solutions based on their business needs and technical environments.Oversee implementation related penny testing, certification, and go-live processes to establish client connectivityMonitor Execution Through KPIs and Steering Governance -Implement dashboards and reporting mechanisms to track progress, risks, and benefits realization. Project Management and GovernanceEstablish Robust Implementation Governance Framework - Design and enforce a structured governance model for implementation processes, ensuring alignment with enterprise delivery standards, risk controls, and client SLAs. This includes defining stage gates, escalation protocols, and audit trails across all phases of implementation.Drive End-to-End Project Management Excellence - Lead cross-functional project execution using proven methodologies (e.g., Agile, PMP, Prince2), ensuring timely delivery of channel products and digital solutions. Monitor scope, timelines, dependencies, and resource allocation while proactively managing risks and stakeholder expectations.15+ years of experience in Transaction Banking, with a focus on client onboarding, integration and implementation of complex corporate channels (H2H, SWIFT, APIs, Online Banking Platforms)Excellent project management skills (Agile, PMP, Prince2) with proven track record in managing complex digital channel implementation with large corporate clientsStrong understanding of GTB products and digital channels for Cash Management (Payments, Collections) and Trade Finance deals.Experience in multi-country client implementations and working with large global banksExcellent stakeholder management and communication skills.Leadership experience in managing cross-functional teams.Strong leadership and advisory skills with experience in collaborating with cross-functional teams.Good understanding of GCC corporate banking clients, markets and regulatory environment.Strategic mindset with excellent interpersonal and stakeholder engagement abilities.Bachelor’s in Business, Engineering, Computer Science, or related field Project management certification in Agile, PMP, Prince2