IT Application Manager (Commercial Bank)

Inspire is working with a major, privately owned commercial bank, looking to open its Hong Kong office. As we build our technology foundation, we are looking for a hands-on Application leader to design, implement, and oversee our IT environment through strategic vendor partnerships. You will be responsible for the full lifecycle management of our commercial banking applications. This role is critical to ensuring our Applications are robust, secure, and fully compliant with HKMA standards from day one.

Role Overview

Strategic Application Management

1. Lead the selection, configuration, and deployment of core Commercial banking systems, trade finance platforms, and treasury applications for the new Hong Kong entity.
2. Ensure seamless integration between local systems and the bank's regional/global infrastructure.
3. Manage the full application lifecycle, including upgrades, patches, and end-of-life planning.

Operational Stability & Support

1. Establish robust application monitoring, incident management, and disaster recovery procedures to guarantee high availability and business continuity.
2. Lead a team of application support analysts, ensuring swift resolution of technical issues for end-users (Relationship Managers, Operations, and Back Office).
3. Manage service levels with external vendors and system integrators.

Security & Compliance

1. Implement and maintain application security controls to safeguard sensitive banking data.
2. Ensure all applications comply with internal policies and local regulatory requirements (HKMA).
3. Support internal and external audit processes by maintaining accurate system documentation and control evidence.

Stakeholder Engagement

1. Act as the primary technology liaison for the business, translating functional requirements into technical specifications.
2. Partner with the Regional Technology team to align local priorities with group-wide technology roadmaps.
3. Manage the local applications budget, including software licensing and maintenance costs.

Ideal Profile

1. Banking Domain Expertise: Minimum 8+ years of experience in application management within Commercial Banking , with deep knowledge of products such as bilateral lending, syndications, trade services, and corporate deposits.
2. Hong Kong Regulatory Fluency: Proven track record of managing systems in a HKMA-regulated environment . You must understand the implications of MAS, TM-G-2, and e-banking risk management protocols.
3. Technical Stack: Experience with core banking systems (e.g., Temenos, Silverlake, or similar), Trade Finance platforms, and Treasury systems.
4. Project Management: Demonstrated experience in system implementation, migration, or new office setup.
5. Excellent command of English and Mandarin. Proficiency in Cantonese is a strong advantage.