Solution Train Engineering Lead

The opportunity at Liberty calls for a seasoned professional to take the helm of a Solution Train, orchestrating the delivery of large-scale, intricate solutions. This role is pivotal in ensuring that complex initiatives, often spanning various business units, client segments, and geographical regions, are executed seamlessly. You will be instrumental in coordinating and facilitating multiple Agile Release Trains (ARTs) and managing relationships with diverse suppliers, all while championing a culture of continuous improvement to guarantee the consistent delivery of tangible value.

A core aspect of this leadership position involves aligning solution delivery with the overarching business and technology vision of the organisation. This means fostering and nurturing enterprise agility, not just through adherence to methodologies, but by sharing your subject matter expertise and coaching leaders on their lean agile transformation journeys. Incorporating best practices and driving a culture of adaptability will be paramount in this dynamic environment.

Your responsibilities will be broad and impactful, encompassing the strategic direction and operational execution of the Solution Train. This includes:

• Leading and managing the end-to-end delivery of complex, enterprise-wide technology solutions.
• Coordinating and facilitating multiple Agile Release Trains (ARTs) to ensure synchronised delivery and value flow.
• Managing and engaging with various suppliers, ensuring their contributions align with project goals.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives across the train to optimise processes and enhance value delivery.
• Aligning solution development efforts with the strategic business and technology objectives.
• Mentoring and coaching leaders and teams in adopting lean-agile principles and practices.
• Fostering an environment that embraces change, encourages feedback, and explores new possibilities.
• Assessing the feasibility and viability of proposed solutions.
• Managing stakeholder expectations and communications effectively.

What They're Looking For

To excel in this role, you'll need a robust blend of agile expertise, leadership acumen, and extensive experience in managing complex programmes. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a deep understanding of agile concepts and practices, coupled with the ability to translate them into actionable strategies for large-scale transformation.

Key requirements include:

• A first-degree qualification in Information Technology or a related field.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of experience in the management of platforms and operating systems.
• Over 10 years of experience in facilitating the design and implementation of technology solutions to address complex organisational challenges.
• More than 10 years of programme management experience, including the coordination of multiple interconnected projects across an enterprise.
• A proven track record of implementing and aligning Lean, Agile, and DevOps methodologies, frameworks, and tools.
• Extensive experience with frameworks and implementation of Agile Release Trains (ARTs).
• Experience in facilitating Lean-Agile Programme execution, particularly within large solutions or programmes using frameworks like SAFe.
• Demonstrated experience as a Scrum Master, potentially utilising Kanban software.
• A good understanding of Agile working practices, proficiency in LEAN and SCRUM, and a collaborative working style.
• Experience in delivery facilitation and leading agile transformations.

This role offers a significant opportunity to shape strategic initiatives within a leading financial services group. Within South Africa, roles leading complex solution trains in the financial sector often command competitive remuneration packages, reflecting the seniority and specialised skills required. Career progression could lead to broader portfolio management or executive leadership within technology and innovation functions.

Type of Qualification: First Degree
Field of Study: Information Technology

Experience Required
Delivery Facilitation / Agile Transformation
Technology
5-7 years
Good understanding of Agile working practices and LEAN and SCRUM proficiency and working collaboratively across teams. Experience gained in the management of platforms and operating systems

8-10 years
Experience in implementing and aligning Lean, Agile and DevOps methodologies, frameworks and tools. Experience with framework and implementation of Agile Release Trains and facilitating Lean-Agile Programme execution in large solution and/or programme execution using the SAFeframework and experience as a scrum master using Kanban software

More than 10 years
Experience in facilitating the design and implementation of technology solutions in response to complex enterprise-wide organisational problems. Experience in programme management including the facilitation of multiple interconnected projects spanning across an enterprise