IT Project Manager

About SMBC Group

SMBC Group is a major global financial services organization based in Tokyo with a history spanning over 400 years. Its business portfolio covers banking, leasing, securities, credit cards, and consumer finance. The group operates through more than 130 offices and employs over 80,000 people across nearly 40 countries.

In the Americas, SMBC Group maintains a presence in the United States, Canada, Ireland, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Peru. Supported by the strength of its capital base and its long-standing relationships in Asia, the organization delivers commercial and investment banking solutions to corporate, institutional, and municipal clients while linking them to local markets and its international network.

This position is based in Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland, and is part of a hybrid working model that includes attendance at the Tralee office.

Role Overview

SMBC is looking for an IT Project Manager to lead complex technology programs that support business goals and regulatory obligations. The role is responsible for managing the full project lifecycle, from defining scope and deliverables to tracking timelines and budgets. The position plays an important part in improving operational performance and supporting strategic initiatives within a banking environment.

The selected candidate will coordinate cross-functional teams and set up governance structures that improve clarity, accountability, and delivery control. This role reports to the Director of Compliance Technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Set the program scope, identify stakeholders, define resource needs and deliverables, and introduce consistent templates and communication methods.
• Work closely with business stakeholders to refine scope and schedules while keeping multiple workstreams aligned with the overall objectives.
• Set up and oversee a Program Management Office (PMO) and Strategic Sourcing Team with clearly assigned responsibilities.
• Partner with subject matter experts and process owners to support delivery and communicate the expected business impact to build alignment.
• Manage vendor relationships across sourcing, selection, and ongoing performance.
• Handle vendor contracts, making sure agreements meet organizational standards and regulatory expectations.
• Coordinate with procurement and legal teams to ensure vendor terms support project goals and remain within budget limits.
• Control program budgets, address possible cost overruns, and request extra funding when needed.
• Use Lean and Agile methods to improve execution efficiency.
• Track progress, evaluate results, adjust schedules or plans when required, and keep leadership and stakeholders updated with clear reporting.

Required Experience and Qualifications

• 5 to 7 years of experience in IT project or program management, with a strong record of delivering large-scale technology implementations.
• Demonstrated success in managing third-party vendors within technology initiatives.
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Business, or a related discipline; PMP or Agile certifications are preferred.
• Strong planning and leadership capabilities, along with experience in risk management, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement.
• Solid knowledge of project management approaches and delivery practices.
• Capability in vendor management, including sourcing strategy, contract negotiation, and performance oversight.
• Strategic judgement, comfort working through ambiguity, enterprise leadership mindset, customer orientation, and the ability to drive change.
• This role involves reporting to senior technology leadership and overseeing project managers and cross-functional teams.

Additional Requirements

SMBC uses a hybrid workforce model that allows employees to split time between home and the office. Employees are expected to live within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned office. The exact hybrid schedule will be discussed during the interview process.

SMBC provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities in line with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Candidates who need support during the application process can request accommodation by emailing accommodations@smbcgroup.com.