CIO

Job Description

Our client is an international financial service group. They are setting up a local team for the securities business in China.

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) is a senior executive responsible for the overall management, implementation, and usability of information and computer technologies within the securities company.

The CIO plays a pivotal role in setting the technology strategy and ensuring the alignment of IT initiatives with the company’s business goals, regulatory requirements, and industry standards. This role requires a forward-thinking leader who can navigate the fast-paced, highly regulated world of securities while driving innovation, efficiency, and security in all IT-related operations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic IT Leadership:

• Develop and execute the company’s IT strategy in alignment with business goals.

• Lead the IT department in delivering innovative, secure, and scalable technology solutions that support trading, asset management, compliance, and other key business functions.

• Collaborate with senior management to identify and prioritize technology investments that drive business growth and operational efficiency.

2. Technology and Infrastructure Management:

• Oversee the development, implementation, and maintenance of all IT infrastructure, including hardware, software, networks, and cybersecurity systems.

• Ensure that the company’s trading platforms, financial systems, and data analytics tools are robust, reliable, and compliant with industry regulations.

• Lead the migration to cloud-based services and the adoption of emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, and blockchain where applicable.

3. Risk Management and Compliance:

• Ensure all IT systems and processes adhere to the latest securities industry regulations, including those set forth by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies.

• Implement and maintain a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy to protect sensitive financial data and prevent breaches.

• Oversee the management of IT risk, including the identification, assessment, and mitigation of technology-related risks.

4. Team Leadership and Development:

• Build and lead a high-performing IT team capable of delivering on the company’s technology goals.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration within the IT department.

• Mentor and develop IT staff, providing opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.

5. Vendor and Stakeholder Management:

• Manage relationships with external vendors, consultants, and service providers to ensure the delivery of quality IT products and services.

• Work closely with internal stakeholders, including trading, compliance, finance, and operations teams, to understand their technology needs and deliver appropriate solutions.

• Negotiate contracts and service agreements to optimize technology investments.

6. Innovation and Digital Transformation:

• Lead the digital transformation initiatives within the company, focusing on automation, process optimization, and the enhancement of client experiences.

• Evaluate and implement cutting-edge technologies that can provide a competitive advantage in the securities market.

• Drive the adoption of data-driven decision-making by integrating advanced analytics and business intelligence tools.

7. Budget Management:

• Develop and manage the IT budget, ensuring the efficient allocation of resources and maximizing ROI on technology investments.

• Monitor and control IT spending to ensure alignment with the company’s financial objectives.

Job Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; MBA or relevant master’s degree preferred.

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in IT leadership roles, with at least 5 years in the securities or financial services industry. Qualified for the SMP requirements.

• In-depth knowledge of securities industry regulations, trading systems, and financial technologies.

• Proven track record of leading digital transformation initiatives and managing complex IT infrastructures.

• Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and practices.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization.

• Experience with cloud computing, data analytics, AI, and other emerging technologies is highly desirable.