Head of IT Application in banking domain(preferred)

We have an urgent requirement for Head of IT Application in banking domain(preferred) is required for our banking client in Oman Lead the organization's application strategy, delivery, support, and digital transformation initiatives while aligning technology solutions with business goals.--MustDevelop and execute the enterprise applications roadmap aligned with business objectives.--MustLead application modernization, digital transformation, automation, and innovation initiatives.--MustEstablish application governance frameworks, standards, policies, and best practices.--MustRole SummaryThe Head of IT Applications is responsible for leading the organization's enterprise applications strategy, delivery, support, and continuous improvement. This role ensures that business applications effectively support organizational goals, drive digital transformation initiatives, optimize business processes, and provide a secure, scalable, and reliable technology environment.The incumbent will oversee the application portfolio, manage application development and support teams, collaborate with business stakeholders, and ensure governance, compliance, and operational excellence across all enterprise applications.Key ResponsibilitiesApplication Strategy & LeadershipDevelop and execute the enterprise applications roadmap aligned with business objectives.Lead application modernization, digital transformation, automation, and innovation initiatives.Establish application governance frameworks, standards, policies, and best practices.Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend solutions to enhance business capabilities.Build and manage high-performing application teams, including internal resources and external partners.Enterprise Application ManagementOwn the lifecycle management of enterprise applications, including ERP, CRM, HRMS, SCM, BI, and custom-developed solutions.Ensure application availability, performance, scalability, and reliability.Drive application enhancements, upgrades, and integrations across business functions.Manage software licensing, vendor relationships, and application contracts.Establish SLAs and monitor application performance against defined KPIs.Business PartnershipPartner with business leaders to understand requirements and convert them into technology solutions.Facilitate prioritization and governance of application demands and projects.Drive user adoption, training, and change management initiatives.Act as the key liaison between business functions and IT teams.Project & Program ManagementLead large-scale application implementation and transformation programs.Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.Manage project portfolios, resource planning, risk management, and stakeholder communication.Promote Agile, DevOps, and modern software delivery practices.Application Development & IntegrationOversee custom application development and system integrations.Define application architecture principles in collaboration with enterprise architecture teams.Ensure seamless integration between cloud-based and on-premises systems.Drive API management and integration platform strategies.Security, Risk & ComplianceEnsure applications comply with organizational security standards and regulatory requirements.Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to identify and mitigate application risks.Oversee disaster recovery, business continuity, and data protection initiatives.Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and audit requirements.Financial & Vendor ManagementManage application budgets and optimize application-related expenditures.Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with software vendors and system integrators.Track and improve ROI from enterprise application investments.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Application availability and uptime.Project delivery success rate.Business user satisfaction scores.Application support SLA compliance.Digital transformation and automation adoption.Cost optimization and budget adherence.Security and compliance audit outcomes.Reduction in application incidents and resolution times.QualificationsEducationBachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related discipline.Master's degree (MBA/MS) preferred.Experience12-18+ years of progressive IT experience with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing enterprise applications.Proven experience leading ERP, CRM, HRMS, and business application landscapes.Experience managing large-scale digital transformation and application modernization initiatives.Strong exposure to cloud platforms, application integration, and enterprise architecture practices.Experience managing cross-functional teams and third-party vendors.Technical ExpertiseEnterprise Applications (SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, Workday, etc.)Application Development & SDLCCloud Platforms (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud)API & Integration PlatformsData Analytics & Business IntelligenceAgile, DevOps, and Product Management MethodologiesIT Service Management (ITIL)Key CompetenciesStrategic ThinkingBusiness AcumenLeadership & People ManagementStakeholder ManagementDigital Transformation LeadershipVendor & Contract ManagementChange ManagementCommunication & Influencing SkillsProblem Solving & Decision MakingFinancial ManagementPreferred CertificationsPMP / PRINCE2ITIL Foundation or ExpertTOGAFCertified Scrum Master (CSM)Cloud Certifications (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud)SAP / Oracle / Salesforce Certifications (as applicable)Skills: digital transformation,bank,application