Switch System Unit Head

Job Summary

The Switch System Unit Head is responsible for managing the ATM switch infrastructure and related transaction processing systems to ensure secure, reliable, and efficient ATM and electronic banking services. The role oversees system operations, project implementation, vendor management, regulatory compliance, business continuity, and a team of technical specialists supporting the ATM business.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute strategies for the ATM switch and transaction processing environment.

• Align switch system capabilities with the bank's ATM and digital banking objectives.

• Recommend technology upgrades and innovations to improve operational efficiency and customer

experience.

Operations Management

• Ensure 24/7 availability and performance of ATM switch systems.

• Monitor transaction processing and system health.

• Manage incident resolution, problem management, and root cause analysis.

• Establish and monitor service level agreements (SLAs) with internal and external stakeholders.

System Administration and Support

• Oversee maintenance, configuration, and optimization of switch applications and infrastructure.

• Ensure smooth integration between ATM systems, core banking platforms, payment networks, and

third-party service providers.

• Supervise system upgrades, new project testing, patches, and technology refresh initiatives.JOB

DESCRIPTION

Project Management

• Lead ATM switch-related projects from planning through implementation.

• Coordinate with business, technology, operations, and vendors to deliver projects on time and within

budget.

• Manage system migrations, enhancements, and new service deployments.

Risk and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with banking regulations, payment network requirements, and security standards.

• Implement controls to minimize operational, cybersecurity, and fraud risks.

• Support audit activities and address audit findings promptly.

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

• Develop and maintain disaster recovery and business continuity plans for switch systems.

• Conduct regular recovery tests and ensure readiness for emergency situations.

Vendor and Stakeholder Management

• Manage relationships with ATM switch vendors, payment networks, and service providers.

• Evaluate vendor performance and negotiate support agreements.

• Collaborate with business units to ensure service delivery meets operational requirements.

People Leadership

• Lead and develop a team of switch system engineers, administrators, and analysts.

• Establish performance objectives and support employee development.

• Promote a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field.

• Master's degree is an advantage.

• At least 3-5 years in a managerial or leadership role.

• Strong knowledge of ATM switching systems, payment networks, electronic funds transfer (EFT), and transaction processing.

• Experience with banking systems integration and high-availability environments.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Technical Competencies

• ATM Switch Platforms (e.g., BASE24, Postilion, Connex, ACI, FIS, XFS or equivalent)

• ISO 8583 transaction messaging

• ATM/POS transaction processing

• Payment card networks (Visa, Mastercard, BancNet, Cirrus, Plus)

• Database management and system monitoring tools

• Information security and fraud prevention controls

• Disaster recovery and business continuity management

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• ATM switch system availability (e.g., 99.9%+ uptime)

• Transaction success rate

• Incident resolution time

• System performance and response time

• Project delivery achievements

• Regulatory and audit compliance

• Customer service and operational efficiency metrics

Reporting Relationship

• Reports to: IT Group Head

• Direct Supports: Support Analysts, and Operations Specialists