Principal Business Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is a prominent financial institution based in the United Kingdom, focused on providing banking services and financial solutions. It has a mission to support the development of the economy through various financial initiatives and projects. Established several decades ago, the organization has grown to employ a significant number of professionals across various departments, with operations extending beyond the UK to multiple countries. The organization is committed to modernizing its operations and enhancing its service delivery through innovative projects and transformation initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Principal Business Analyst plays a crucial role in leading change projects that significantly impact the organization and its operations. This position involves collaborating with business stakeholders to gather, analyze, and document business requirements as part of the operating model, which includes process, data, and technology design. The Principal may also serve as a Product Owner for strategic technology or business transformation projects. The role requires working in matrix environments alongside specialist consultants and other bank staff engaged in various projects. The organization is currently undertaking several transformation initiatives aimed at modernizing its operations, including the Limits Manager replacement project, which seeks to establish a streamlined process for the allocation and monitoring of limits across various levels within the bank. The incumbent will lead business analysis efforts to ensure that the solutions developed meet business needs and align with the bank's broader objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Business Analyst will be responsible for developing and maintaining stakeholder relationships both internally and externally to drive change and achieve project benefits. Key responsibilities include: leading 1-3 change projects or initiatives, conducting business analysis to design and gain acceptance for current and future business processes, advising and supporting project implementation, managing stakeholder alignment and commitment, facilitating collaboration across departments, maintaining accurate project plans and cost estimates, providing project status updates to the EPMO, managing risks and issues, developing project communications, and coordinating project assessments to support business case production for investment projects. The role also involves driving innovation initiatives and championing new working methods, particularly in Agile practices, while working with internal units to address change needs and operational improvements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a relevant degree or equivalent experience in financial services, corporate/investment banking, or a related function at a Group level. Experience in programme/project management and change management is essential, with qualifications such as Prince 2, Lean/Six Sigma, or SCRUM certification being advantageous. A solid understanding of enterprise/business architecture is necessary, along with proven experience in transformation levers such as data, processes, and technology. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of industry best practices in organizational development and change management, as well as domain expertise in risk management. Experience working in project teams with matrix responsibilities is also required, along with a strong understanding of the organization's mandate and strategy.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in a field related to finance, business administration, or a similar discipline is required. Candidates with advanced degrees or specialized certifications in project management or change management will be viewed favorably, as these qualifications enhance the candidate's ability to perform effectively in the role.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in project management and change management within the financial services sector. Candidates should have a proven track record of leading transformation initiatives and managing complex projects, ideally with experience in a matrix organizational structure. Familiarity with the banking sector and understanding of the organization's operations will be beneficial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory, as the role involves communication with a diverse range of stakeholders at all levels within the organization. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they align with the organization's operational regions.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a fixed-term contract lasting for 2 years. The role is based in London, United Kingdom, and is open to both internal and external applicants. Candidates currently employed in certain roles within the organization may have restrictions on their eligibility to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of a collaborative work environment and encourages team-oriented individuals to apply. Due to the high volume of applications, detailed feedback will not be provided to candidates who are not shortlisted.