Payments & Operations Manager (Banking)

Job Title: Payments Technology & Operations Compliance Manager

Location: Remote

Duration: 12+ months

Pay Rate: Open

Position Summary: We are seeking a highly skilled Manager with deep expertise in both payments technology and operations compliance. This role focuses on leading technical projects related to payments, ensuring operational excellence, and maintaining compliance with industry regulations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in payment systems, digital transformations, and regulatory compliance within the banking industry. They will act as a key player in both the strategic and operational aspects of payment technology, driving innovation and efficiency while ensuring adherence to compliance standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee complex payments projects, managing the full project lifecycle from strategy to execution, ensuring timely delivery within scope and budget.
• Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in payments technology and operations, with a strong focus on compliance and risk management.
• Ensure adherence to NACHA rules and practices, effectively managing risks associated with payment processing across various systems, including ACH, checks, wires, debit, credit, and prepaid cards, as well as emerging and alternative payment methods.
• Develop and implement technology strategies that align with business goals, particularly in payment systems and digital transformations.
• Act as the product owner for payment technology solutions, managing the entire product lifecycle and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize payment processes.
• Conduct audits and assessments to ensure payment operations comply with industry regulations and standards, providing guidance for continuous improvement.
• Manage vendor relationships, including technology evaluations, vendor selection, and ongoing management to ensure the successful delivery of payment projects.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to global teams, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to address payment-related issues and implement improvements in payment processing.
• Drive process optimization initiatives using agile methodologies, enhancing project delivery and operational efficiency.
• Communicate effectively with executive leadership, providing strategic guidance on technology trends and best practices in the payments industry.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Computer Science, or a related field; an MBA or advanced degree is preferred.
• 7 to 10 years of professional experience in payment operations and technology within the banking industry.
• Extensive knowledge of NACHA rules and practices, with practical experience in ACH implementations and other payment systems.
• Proven track record in leading digital transformation initiatives, particularly in payments technology.
• Strong background in regulatory compliance and risk management within the financial services sector.
• Experience in project management, with a solid understanding of agile and waterfall methodologies.
• Hands-on experience with data architecture, risk management, and product development in a banking context.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to manage and mentor teams effectively.
• Ability to work independently and within a team, in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
• APRP or AAP certification is a plus.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI and process automation technologies.
• Familiarity with global payments systems and regulations, including AML, MiFID, and other relevant frameworks.
• Previous experience in a consulting role within a top-tier firm is a plus.