Principal

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is a pioneering international financial institution established in 199

• Its mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries, employing thousands of professionals dedicated to making a positive impact in the regions it serves. The organization is known for its commitment to sustainability, inclusiveness, and innovation, and it actively seeks to create a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The Principal role is a strategic position responsible for defining and leading the implementation of engineering strategies across delivery teams, departments, and customers. The core focus of this role is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of engineering teams, ensuring they deliver maximum value to the business. The Principal will lead cross-functional teams, develop and implement standards, and foster a unified approach to agile methodologies. This role is pivotal in creating a product and delivery mindset within the organization, ensuring high levels of engagement and effective adoption of business changes among internal teams, stakeholders, and external partners. The Principal will also be accountable for the strategy and delivery of departmental and business strategies, constantly innovating to improve processes and outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal will lead complex, cross-functional IT delivery programs across multiple squads, ensuring alignment with organizational technology strategies. Responsibilities include managing Agile delivery processes, balancing flexibility with necessary controls for on-time delivery of IT solutions, and empowering teams to collaborate effectively. The Principal will build and manage relationships with senior IT and business stakeholders, ensuring clear communication regarding delivery goals, progress, risks, and outcomes. They will mentor team members on Agile best practices, foster a culture of collaboration and self-organization, and implement improvements to Agile delivery practices. The role also involves ensuring delivery governance is met, managing stage gates, budgets, and financial controls, and preparing business cases for IT projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an expert understanding of Agile methodologies, including Scrum, Kanban, and SAFe, with significant experience in leading complex technology delivery programs. In-depth knowledge of Waterfall and hybrid adaptive delivery frameworks is essential. Strong leadership and communication skills are required to engage effectively with senior stakeholders. Experience in risk and dependency management, stakeholder management, and expectation setting is crucial. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing and scaling Agile practices across organizations, particularly in large enterprise-level technology transformations.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree or equivalent experience in a delivery, Agile, or business-related field is required. Advanced Agile certifications, such as SAFe Program Consultant (SPC) or Advanced ScrumMaster (A-CSM), are highly desirable, demonstrating in-depth Agile expertise.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in Agile delivery, with a strong track record of leading complex, cross-functional programs and projects. Experience in managing multiple teams and navigating complexity in enterprise environments is essential. Proven experience in managing and resolving risks, dependencies, and issues at an enterprise level is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the regions served by the EBRD.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract lasting for 2 years. The role is full-time and based in London, United Kingdom. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace model, offering flexibility to teams and individuals. The organization prioritizes employee wellbeing and provides a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits. The EBRD encourages applications from all qualified candidates, ensuring an inclusive environment that respects diversity.