IT Head

Job Title: IT Head – Fintech Industry

Department: Information Technology

Location: Andheri East

Reports to: COO

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Overview:

The IT Head in a fintech company is responsible for overseeing the entire information technology infrastructure, including the development, implementation, and maintenance of IT systems, networks, and software solutions. The role involves leading the IT team, managing technology projects, ensuring data security, and ensuring the smooth functioning of all technology operations. As the company scales, the IT Head will play a key role in enabling digital innovation, optimizing IT processes, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations in the fintech sector.

Key Responsibilities:

1. IT Strategy and Leadership

• Develop and execute the company’s IT strategy to align with the organization’s overall business goals and objectives, ensuring the integration of new technologies and systems.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of IT professionals, setting clear goals, priorities, and performance expectations.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies, providing guidance and recommending innovations to improve efficiency and security.
• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of IT systems that support fintech products, customer experience, and business operations.

2. IT Infrastructure Management

• Oversee the management and optimization of the company’s IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, databases, and cloud services.
• Ensure the scalability and reliability of IT systems to support the company’s growth and increasing demand for digital services.
• Manage system updates, hardware procurement, and vendor relationships to ensure that infrastructure is cost-effective, secure, and high-performing.

3. Cybersecurity and Data Protection

• Lead efforts to ensure the company’s IT infrastructure is secure, implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive customer data, financial transactions, and intellectual property.
• Develop and enforce data protection policies and procedures to ensure compliance with data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, RBI, etc.).
• Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments, working with the security team to address potential risks proactively.

4. Software Development and Integration

• Oversee the development and deployment of software applications and tools that support fintech operations, including payment gateways, loan management systems, and customer engagement platforms.
• Collaborate with product teams to identify technological needs, integrate new features, and optimize existing products for improved performance and user experience.
• Ensure the seamless integration of third-party platforms, APIs, and fintech partners into the company’s core systems.

5. IT Operations and Support

• Ensure the efficient day-to-day operation of IT services, including helpdesk support, system maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Establish service level agreements (SLAs) for IT services, ensuring that internal teams and customers receive timely support and issue resolution.
• Manage incident response, ensuring quick resolution of system failures, security breaches, or service interruptions.

6. Budgeting and Cost Control

• Manage the IT department’s budget, ensuring cost-effective spending on technology, software, hardware, and IT services.
• Analyze and recommend investments in new technologies and infrastructure that can improve business performance while optimizing costs.
• Ensure the efficient use of IT resources and the appropriate allocation of budget to support business priorities.

7. Compliance and Regulatory Requirements

• Ensure IT practices comply with relevant industry regulations and standards, such as financial services regulations, data privacy laws, and cybersecurity guidelines.
• Work with legal and compliance teams to ensure that all systems and data handling procedures meet industry-specific regulatory requirements (e.g., PCI DSS, ISO 27001).
• Provide input and guidance on IT-related regulatory audits and assessments, ensuring the organization is always in compliance.

8. Innovation and Digital Transformation

• Drive innovation by identifying opportunities for digital transformation within the organization, using technology to streamline operations and enhance the customer experience.
• Collaborate with other departments (marketing, customer service, product development) to introduce new fintech products and services powered by cutting-edge technology.
• Oversee the implementation of AI, machine learning, and other advanced technologies to enhance business performance, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

9. Vendor and Stakeholder Management

• Manage relationships with external technology vendors, service providers, and consultants to ensure the company gets the best value for its investments.
• Negotiate contracts, terms of service, and service level agreements (SLAs) with vendors and technology partners.
• Ensure strong communication with business stakeholders, understanding their IT needs and delivering technology solutions that align with company objectives.

Qualifications and Skills:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree or relevant certifications like ITIL, PMP, or CISSP are a plus).

Experience:

• 8-12 years of experience in IT management, with at least 4 years in a leadership role, preferably within the fintech, banking, or technology industry.
• Strong understanding of IT infrastructure, cloud computing, database management, and cybersecurity best practices.
• Proven experience in managing IT teams and large-scale IT projects, especially in fast-paced, growth-driven environments.
• Knowledge of fintech products and services, including digital payments, blockchain, and online lending platforms.

Skills:

• Expertise in IT infrastructure management, cloud services (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), and enterprise software.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity protocols, data protection laws, and IT governance frameworks.
• Experience with software development and integration, particularly for fintech platforms.
• Strong project management and budgeting skills, with a track record of delivering IT projects on time and within budget.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to manage cross-functional teams and communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.