Univest - Head - IT Operations - Stock Broking Vertical

Key Responsibilities:

1. Infrastructure Procurement and Management:

- Procure, maintain, and manage IT infrastructure ensuring optimal performance and security.

- Forecast and manage budget requirements for procurement of hardware, software, and IT services.

- Oversee the development and implementation of front-end and back-end systems specifically designed for brokerage services in investment and insurance.

- Ensure the reliability and optimal performance of all internal systems, with a keen eye on improvements that can be made for brokerage operations.

- Manage software development projects with precision, setting clear objectives, timelines, and adhering to agile methodologies specific to financial services.

- Architect and document system designs, data flows, and integration points, ensuring scalability, reliability, and security specific to brokerage operations.

2. Lease Line Management:

- Oversee and manage lease line agreements, ensuring uninterrupted and high-speed connectivity.

- Evaluate and negotiate contracts with service providers to ensure cost-efficiency and reliability.

3. Retail Trading Apps Management:

- Oversee the development, deployment, and continuous improvement of retail trading applications.

- Ensure seamless integration of trading apps with existing systems and compliance with regulatory standards.

4. Cloud and Server Management:

- Oversee the management and maintenance of cloud services and server infrastructures.

- Ensure data integrity, security, and availability across cloud and server platforms.

5. Servicing and Issue Resolution:

- Lead the servicing team in resolving issues promptly.

- Establish a robust issue resolution process, ensuring timely resolution and minimal disruption.

6. Operational Efficiency and Compliance:

- Continuously monitor, evaluate and improve operational processes to enhance efficiency and compliance with industry regulations.

- Stay abreast of technological advancements and regulatory changes relevant to the stock broking industry.

7. Cost Optimization:

- Identify and implement cost-saving measures in IT operations without compromising on quality and security.

- Analyse and optimize vendor contracts and IT service agreements for cost-effectiveness.

8. Firewall Management:

- Manage and maintain firewall configurations to ensure the security and integrity of the organization's network.

- Monitor firewall performance and respond to security incidents as needed.

9. Team Leadership and Development:

- Lead, mentor, and develop the IT operations team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning

- Evaluate team performance and provide regular feedback, training, and development opportunities.

Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree in information technology, Computer Science or related field (Master's preferred).

- Minimum of 10 years of experience in IT operations with at least 5 years in a leadership role, preferably within the financial or stock broking sector.

- Proficient in modern IT infrastructure, cloud services, and retail trading applications.

- Strong understanding of IT operations' best practices, industry regulations, and emerging technologies.

- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills