Business Analyst / Engagement Lead – Cloud Modernization (Banking & Payments)

Urgent FTE role - Engagement Lead – Cloud Modernization (Banking & Payments)

Role: Engagement Lead – Cloud Modernization (Banking & Payments)

Type of hiring: FTE

Visa: Independent.

Salary range: 120-130 K Max.

Location: Troy, MI (local candidates only).

Yrs of Exp: 10-15 yrs.

Overview:
The Engagement Lead for Cloud Modernization will drive the end-to-end delivery of cloud transformation initiatives for a major banking and payments client. This role combines deep cloud expertise, strong project leadership, and industry knowledge to ensure successful migration, modernization, and adoption of cloud solutions aligned with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage complex cloud migration and modernization projects, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with client business goals.
• Bridge business requirements with technical solutions by facilitating discussions between stakeholders, engineering teams, and business leaders.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to client executives and senior management, providing guidance on cloud adoption, architecture, and best practices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (including security, compliance, and application teams) to ensure seamless integration and regulatory compliance, especially for banking and payments environments.
• Develop and maintain client relationships to understand evolving needs and proactively identify opportunities for further modernization.
• Oversee project governance, risk management, and issue resolution throughout the engagement lifecycle.
• Drive adoption of cloud-native services and support the modernization of legacy systems, with a focus on scalability, security, and cost optimization.
• Mentor and guide project teams on cloud technologies, delivery best practices, and industry trends.
• Monitor and report on project progress, KPIs, and outcomes to both internal and client stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience leading large-scale cloud modernization or migration projects, preferably within the banking or payments sector.
• Deep understanding of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform), including IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS offerings.
• Strong project and program management skills, with experience in Agile methodologies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
• Experience with regulatory and security requirements relevant to financial services (e.g., PCI DSS, SOC 2, GDPR).
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple stakeholders and drive consensus in a matrixed environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field; advanced degree or relevant certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, PMP) preferred.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with application modernization strategies (e.g., microservices, containerization, serverless).
• Familiarity with payment processing platforms and core banking systems.
• Vendor management and budget oversight experience.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and adaptability in fast-paced environments.