Lead Infrastructure Specialist (z Mainframe lab – Database SysProg)

This role presents a significant opportunity for an experienced infrastructure leader to make a tangible impact within a critical area of a major financial institution. The Lead Infrastructure Specialist (z Mainframe Lab – Database SysProg) position is designed for individuals who thrive on technical leadership, team development, and strategic improvement of core banking systems.

For candidates looking to advance their career, this role offers a compelling blend of responsibilities. You'll have the chance to lead and mentor a team of approximately 15 infrastructure specialists, focusing on their personal development and day-to-day task management. This leadership aspect, accounting for about 30% of the role, is crucial for those aspiring to senior management positions. Furthermore, the position is at the forefront of a significant transformation effort within the z Mainframe Lab. This involves driving improvements in agility, operational pace, and cost-efficiency of the IBM Z Mainframe, which is central to Lloyds Banking Group's strategic transactional processing systems. Your contributions will directly influence the evolution and modernization of this vital infrastructure.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Strategic Leadership: Opportunity to lead a specialized team and drive strategic initiatives impacting core banking systems.
• Career Development: Emphasis on talent management and supporting the growth of team members, fostering a mentoring environment.
• Transformation Involvement: Direct participation in significant investment and transformation activities within the z Mainframe Lab.
• Technical Depth: Deep dive into IBM Z Mainframe database technologies and critical infrastructure management.
• Flexible Working: Hybrid working model, offering a blend of office-based collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Attractive Compensation & Benefits: A competitive salary range of £90,440 - £106,400, coupled with a generous pension contribution, annual bonus, share schemes, and a comprehensive benefits package.
• On-Call Allowance: Compensation for being on call outside of normal working hours, recognizing the critical nature of the systems supported.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• z Mainframe Expertise: A strong background in the z Mainframe sector and specific engineering experience with relevant database technologies is essential. This is not an entry-level role for mainframe technology.
• Leadership Experience: Proven experience in both operational and line management of small to medium-sized engineering teams is a prerequisite. Candidates should be comfortable with talent development and performance management.
• Agile Methodologies: Familiarity and experience with Agile methods, including JIRA and Jira Align toolsets, will be beneficial for driving service improvements and managing backlogs.
• Stakeholder Management: The ability to translate technical concepts into non-technical language for various stakeholders is important for effective communication and incident resolution.
• On-Call Commitment: Candidates must be prepared for on-call duties outside of standard working hours, which is a core component of supporting critical infrastructure.
• Financial Services Background (Beneficial): While not strictly mandatory, experience within the financial services sector or a regulated environment will be advantageous due to the nature of the business and the systems supported.

This role is ideal for a seasoned infrastructure professional seeking to leverage their technical acumen and leadership skills in a dynamic and transformational environment. If you are passionate about building and developing teams, driving technological advancements, and contributing to the stability and future of critical financial systems, this opportunity at Lloyds Banking Group warrants serious consideration for your career path.