Core Banking Project Manager

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end core banking implementations, migrations, upgrades and transformation projects based in the UAE (Abu Dhabi).
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, scope, milestones, budgets and resource allocation using hybrid methodologies (Agile/Waterfall).
• Identify, track and mitigate RAID (Risks, Assumptions, Issues, Dependencies) with clear contingency plans focused on data integrity, security and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate and validate complex data migration activities to ensure zero information loss and data quality across historical and customer datasets.
• Manage integration and API interfaces (REST, SOAP) with surrounding systems (loans, wealth, digital channels) and oversee system testing and cutover activities.
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, SLAs and deliverables for the core banking system provider.
• Communicate project status, risks and KPIs to executive sponsors and cross-functional stakeholders; maintain audit-ready documentation and governance records.
• Ensure project designs and implementations comply with UAE and international financial regulations (AML, KYC, FATCA, Basel III).
• Support technical teams by liaising on system design, logs, databases (SQL) and troubleshooting production issues.

Requirements

• Project management
• Banking domain
• Data migration
• Regulatory compliance
• Stakeholder management
• Vendor management
• API knowledge
• SQL knowledge
• Agile methodologies
• SDLC experience

Preferred Qualifications

• PMP, PRINCE2 or Scrum certification.
• Proven track record delivering large-scale core banking projects in UAE or GCC banks.
• Deep knowledge of banking products, transaction flows and operational impacts of core banking change.
• Experience with third-party core banking vendors and complex system integrations.
• Strong leadership managing cross-functional teams (IT, Legal, Operations, Business) through change.
• Experience preparing audit-ready governance documentation for financial regulators.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance bonuses
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Gratuity
• Annual flight allowance
• Paid leave
• Professional development and certification support
• Flexible / hybrid working arrangements

About the Company

DeepLight AI is an AI and data consultancy specialising in intelligent enterprise systems with a strong focus on financial services and banking. Operating in the UAE, DeepLight combines expertise in data science, ML/AI, systems integration and workflow automation to deliver transformation projects for banks and financial institutions. The team values technical excellence, regulatory awareness and practical delivery to drive high-impact outcomes for clients.