VP/Chief Architect

Description

We are a team of problem-solvers, architects and strategists who thrive on tackling complex business challenges with technology. As a premier consulting partner with multiple cloud and data providers, we pride ourselves on our collaborative, transparent and client-focused culture.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a visionary technology executive who has experience as a CTO or Chief Architect and a proven track record in delivering transformational data programs within a Retail or Commercial Banking environment. The successful candidate will have technical and business depth and be capable of managing multiple workstreams (data governance, data architecture/strategy consolidation and managed services).

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Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Transformation

• Define and execute an integrated virtual technology and data vision aligned with business priorities in commercial, treasury, and digital banking.
• Lead enterprise-wide modernization initiatives remotely, working with distributed architecture, engineering, and analytics teams.
• Build technology strategies that drive business agility and strengthen digital capabilities across client-facing and internal functions.

Enterprise Architecture & Core Banking Systems

• Oversee integration and modernization of remote-accessible core banking platforms, including CRM, lending, treasury, and ERP systems.
• Drive future-state architecture planning across cloud, microservices, and secure data access platforms.
• Manage third-party vendors and ensure technology delivery aligns with remote execution models.

Data & Analytics Strategy

• Build and operate a scalable virtual data environment (MDM, data lakes, regulatory reporting, and AI-ready platforms).
• Ensure delivery of analytics to support risk modeling, AML, liquidity forecasting, and customer lifecycle management.
• Lead cross-border data initiatives ensuring compliance with sovereignty, privacy, and audit requirements.

Regulatory Compliance & Data Governance

• Establish a best-in-class virtual data governance office to support Tier 2 banking obligations and OSFI/FINTRAC compliance.
• Oversee secure architecture design, privacy engineering, and audit readiness for virtual operations.
• Embed risk and compliance protocols across distributed teams and cloud-based infrastructure.

Data Architecture

• Design and maintain scalable, secure, and high-performance data architectures to support business applications and analytics.
• Develop data models, schemas, and pipelines to ensure data integrity, accessibility, and efficiency.
• Implement best practices for data governance, security, and compliance (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate data systems with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).

Change Management

• Lead change management initiatives to ensure smooth adoption of new data systems and processes.
• Develop and execute stakeholder communication plans to align teams on data strategy changes.
• Train and upskill employees on new tools, workflows, and data practices to minimize disruption.
• Monitor and address resistance to change, ensuring high adoption rates and project success.

Data Migration

• Plan and execute complex data migration projects, ensuring minimal downtime and data integrity.
• Assess legacy systems, map data flows, and develop migration strategies for on-premises to cloud or hybrid environments.
• Validate migrated data for accuracy, consistency, and compliance with business requirements.
• Mitigate risks during migration through robust testing and rollback plans.

Virtual CTO Services

• Provide strategic technology leadership as a virtual CTO, advising on data-driven innovation and digital transformation.
• Align data architecture with business objectives, identifying opportunities for competitive advantage.
• Evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, blockchain) for integration into the data ecosystem.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, presenting data strategies and ROI to stakeholders.

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Required Qualifications:

• 20+ years in technology, enterprise architecture, and data roles with 5+ years leading virtual/global teams.
• Proven track record of successful transformation leadership in financial services or regulated banking environments.
• Strong experience with virtual enterprise platforms including cloud-native banking cores, CRM, and real-time analytics.
• Demonstrated success in managing post-merger integrations, digital transitions, and remote service delivery models.
• Master’s degree (EMBA preferred); STEM or Finance undergraduate background preferred.

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Preferred Experience:

• AI/ML deployment in virtual environments (e.g., cloud-based underwriting, virtual agents, model governance).
• Expertise in Canadian and international banking regulations and cloud compliance frameworks.
• Board-facing and regulator-facing leadership experience in hybrid or remote-first organizations.
• Experience leading technology for FinTech, Tier 2 banks, or SaaS-based financial platforms.

Salary range is $150,000-$250,000 USD per year and will vary depending upon experience.

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