Role DescriptionThe Senior Project Manager at the Director level is responsible for overseeing and managing large-scale technology programs and portfolios across the organization. This role leads end-to-end delivery throughout the project lifecycle, including defining objectives, scope, timelines, risks, and dependencies. The role requires close collaboration with business stakeholders, technology teams, and regional partners, including frequent coordination and communication with Tokyo Head Office and local users.
The Senior Project Manager drives successful technology implementations that align with business strategy, regulatory requirements, and operational excellence within a global financial institution environment.
Note: We are seeking a candidate who is proficient in both English and Japanese for this role.
Role Objectives- Build strong partnerships with business stakeholders and senior leadership across regions
- Influence and align stakeholders on program scope, timelines, and target outcomes
- Foster collaboration and transparency across cross-functional and cross-regional teams
- Ensure alignment with overarching program and enterprise objectives
- Lead impact assessments of program outcomes and engage process owners to drive adoption
- Promote collaboration and best practice sharing with program teams in other regions, including Tokyo Head Office
Qualifications and Skills- 10 years of experience in IT project or program management, preferably within a large financial institution
- Native-level English proficiency (required)
- Business-level Japanese proficiency or higher (required), with the ability to communicate effectively with Tokyo Head Office and Japan-based stakeholders, due to frequent interactions
- Experience working in a Financial Institution, or delivering services or solutions for Financial Institution clients (preferred)
- Experience with CRM systems, particularly Salesforce, is preferred
- Proven ability to manage regulatory, compliance, and audit-driven initiatives
- Willingness to participate in online meetings with Tokyo Head Office during evening hours (1-2 times per week) to support global collaboration
- Strong cultural awareness and experience working with Japan-based stakeholders
Additional RequirementsSMBC's employees participate in a Hybrid workforce model that provides employees with an opportunity to work from home, as well as, from an SMBC office. SMBC requires that employees live within a reasonable commuting distance of their office location. Prospective candidates will learn more about their specific hybrid work schedule during their interview process. Hybrid work may not be permitted for certain roles, including, for example, certain FINRA-registered roles for which in-office attendance for the entire workweek is required.
