Strategic Program Manager

Who are we?
At Finastra, we are a dynamic global provider of open finance software solutions, dedicated to expanding access to financial services. Our innovative applications span Lending, Payments, Treasury and Capital Markets, and Universal Banking. Proudly serving over 8,000 customers, including 45 of the world's top 50 banks, we aim to boost financial inclusion for all. Join us and be part of a vibrant company that embraces diverse perspectives, and is committed to doing well by doing good.

This is a contract role, until May 2026.

Position Overview
The Strategic Program Manager, based in London, UK, reports directly to the Chief of Staff - People & Places. This role centers on managing a portfolio of highly sensitive projects and complex strategic initiatives, overseeing the entire project lifecycle from initial definition and intake to the transition into full operational execution. The position requires effective collaboration with multiple departments—such as HR, Finance, IT, Workplaces/Facilities, and various program teams—to ensure successful outcomes.

A successful candidate will have exceptional organizational abilities, the skill to manage competing priorities efficiently, and the capacity to provide strategic insight that supports critical business objectives. This role demands strong analytical thinking, adaptability in navigating ambiguity, and a consistent focus on delivering high-quality results. The Strategic Program Manager will also cultivate cross-functional relationships, facilitate effective communications, and serve as a trusted advisor to leadership throughout each project. They will demonstrate a high degree of emotional intelligence, resilience, and the capacity to inspire diverse teams toward a shared vision. They must be adept at balancing strategic thinking with tactical execution, ensuring that every program aligns with the company's strategic objectives.

By leveraging data-driven insights and industry best practices, the Strategic Program Manager will establish frameworks for governance, change management, and performance measurement impact. The ability to translate complex strategies into actionable plans will be essential, as will a keen understanding of how to navigate organizational dynamics and resolve challenges before they escalate.

The role is required to be in the London office 2 days per week

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact for stakeholders and project sponsors, ensuring alignment between project objectives, and organizational direction.
• Plan, coordinate, and oversee the company's transition back to on-site working, supporting the shift from project phase to business-as-usual (BAU) operations.
• Identify and engage stakeholders, assess their communication needs, and ensure these are appropriately addressed.
• Determine resource requirements and promptly communicate needs to secure skilled project staffing.
• Continuously assess, qualify, and monitor project risks; establish mitigation and contingency plans; assign resources; and regularly communicate status updates.
• Manage multiple mid- to large-scale projects, ensuring timely completion within budget and alignment with Finastra's strategic goals.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Project Delivery: Achieving successful project completion within agreed scope, schedule, and budget constraints.
• Stakeholder Satisfaction: Receiving positive feedback from stakeholders and sponsors.
• Resource Utilization: Efficient allocation and management of project resources.
• Risk Management: Proactive identification, tracking and mitigation of project risks.
• Financial Performance: Consistent adherence to budgets, accurate forecasting, and prompt action on variances.
• Communication Effectiveness: Maintaining clear and consistent communication with all project participants.
• Process Improvement: Implementing and continually refining project management standards and procedures.

Required Experience

• 7+ years of relevant experience in program or project management, ideally in cross-functional or corporate environments
• Highly skilled at working with stakeholders at all levels, and providing regular, high quality updates, using a variety of channels.
• Experience in defining, executing, and optimizing standards, processes, and procedures, applying best practices.
• Proven experience managing multiple complex projects or transformational programs.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically and take ownership of issues, driving them to resolution.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to identifying and addressing challenges.
• Ability to work independently and make informed decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Change Management experience will be an advantage

Benefits
We are proud to offer a range of incentives to our employees worldwide. These benefits are available to everyone, regardless of grade, and reflect the values we uphold:

• Flexibility: Enjoy unlimited vacation, based on your location and business priorities. Hybrid working arrangements, and inclusive policies such as paid time off for voting, bereavement, and sick leave.
• Well-being: Access confidential one-on-one therapy through our Employee Assistance Program, unlimited personalized coaching via our coaching app, and access to our Gather Groups for emotional and mental support.
• Medical, life & disability insurance, retirement plan, lifestyle and other benefits*
• ESG: Benefit from paid time off for volunteering and donation matching.
• DEI: Participate in multiple DE&I groups for open involvement (e.g., Count Me In, , , , ).
• Career Development: Access online learning and accredited courses through our Skills & Career Navigator tool.
• Recognition: Be part of our global recognition program, Finastra Celebrates, and contribute to regular employee surveys to help shape Finastra and foster a culture where everyone is engaged and empowered to perform at their best.
• Specific benefits may vary by location.

At Finastra, each individual is unique, bringing their own ideas, thoughts, cultural beliefs, backgrounds, and experiences together. We learn from one another, embrace and celebrate our differences, and create an environment where everyone feels safe to be themselves.

Be unique, be exceptional, and help us make a difference at Finastra