Group DFS Planning Manager at Equity Bank Kenya

The Manager, Group DFS Planning is responsible for developing and executing the strategy, managing costs, and driving delivery of the Mobile Money Systems (such as Lending Platforms, Risk Platform etc). This role involves leadership at both the operational and strategic levels, working closely with teams to ensure alignment with organizational goals and maintaining high levels of performance, availability, and security across all facilities. The key drive of the Manager, Group DFS Planning will be to drive delivery of DFS platforms across all of Equity subsidiaries, while ensuring that the systems are designed and delivered in the most cost-effective way.

Job Responsibilities/ Accountabilities:

Technical Leadership

• Provide guidance and leadership to the design and implementation of of DFS Platforms.
• Ensure that all DFS systems are delivered within defined timelines, focusing on quality, performance, and re-usability.
• Ensure re-use of common functionality across all subsidiaries hence reducing costly Change Requests

Strategic Management

• Develop and implement the overall DFS Platforms to ensure alignment with the organizations long-term business objectives.
• Oversee the planning and execution of strategic initiatives, such as infrastructure upgrades, capacity planning, and technological advancements of the various Platforms.
• Lead long-term planning for DFS platform expansions, features and upgrades, ensuring scalability and sustainability.

Budgeting and Cost Management

• Monitor and manage operational expenditures (OPEX) and capital expenditures (CAPEX) related to DFS Non-Core Platforms.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and efficiency improvements in DFS applications and infrastructure.

Operational Leadership

• Provide guidance and leadership to the Planning Engineers and other direct reports, ensuring the efficient implementation of Core Mobile Money systems.
• Ensure that all DFS systems are delivered within defined timelines, focusing on quality, performance, and reliability.
• Ensure re-use of common functionality across all subsidiaries hence reducing costly Change Requests

Risk and Compliance Management

• Ensure compliance with industry standards, certifications (e.g., PCI DSS, ISO), and regulatory requirements across all systems
• Oversee the development and implementation of risk management and disaster recovery plans.
• Ensure DFS systems are designed and implemented securely and that all security measures comply with organizational policies.

Audit Management

• Manage both internal and external audits related to Non-Core DFS systems, ensuring full compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Coordinate audit preparation activities, ensuring all necessary documentation and processes are in place.
• Address audit findings and recommendations, implementing corrective actions to mitigate risks and improve operational efficiency.
• Liaise with internal audit teams, external auditors, and regulatory bodies, ensuring clear communication and timely responses

Qualifications

Essential Knowledge

• In-depth knowledge and experience of Mobile money systems
• Strong understanding and appreciation of Huawei Non-Core DFS Platform
• Understanding and proven working experience with API integration
• Excellent knowledge of industry standards and best practices including compliance and risk management.

Requirements:

• University degree in Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in FinTech Systems, with a focus on strategy and operational leadership.
• Proven experience managing large-scale Mobile Money/Fintech teams.
• Experience in managing CAPEX/OPEX budgets and vendor contracts.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel regionally based on business need