
As CIO, can you help Skipton International evolve into the future?
The Chief Information Officer at Skipton International is responsible for shaping and delivering the organisation’s technology, digital, and data strategies in alignment with business goals.
This role drives innovation, operational efficiency, and resilience through leadership in digital transformation, infrastructure management, and cybersecurity.
It ensures robust governance, compliance, and risk management while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and customer-centric digital experiences.
Key Accountabilities
- As a member of the Executive Committee, identify organisational priorities and participate in the development and delivery of corporate strategies which drive profitability and ensure a culture focussed on managing conduct and other risks effectively.
- Develop, establish and agree long-term vision and strategy for Technology functions, in alignment with the corporate plan and incorporating industry best practice. Monitor progress and priorities for delivery.
- Develop appropriate performance measures for Technology functions. Ensure that the Board and Executive Committee are provided with relevant and accurate information on the performance and risks facing the functions and the business as a whole.
- Evangelise technology and data within Skipton International, ensure that the wider business has sight of the strategic aims and the rationale behind these.
- Ensure robust 1st line operational risk management takes place in the functions in line with Skipton’s Risk Management framework and Board Risk Appetites
- Provide appropriate input and analysis to business planning to facilitate proper consideration by the Board and Executive Committee
- Provide appropriate reporting and MI on key Technology issues on a regular basis to the Board and Executive Committee.
- Implementation of the decisions of the Board and of the strategy approved by the Board.
- Ensure the development and implementation of policies and procedures which are efficient, cost effective, compliant with legislation and regulatory requirements and which deliver a rewarding customer experience.
- Anticipate operational and regulatory risk for Technology within Skipton and take steps to minimise and reduce it.
- Observe the standards of conduct set out by applicable Regulatory bodies, including maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in all business and personal dealings.
- Ensure effective business continuity procedures are in place to enable the ongoing provision of services to customers.
- Ensure effective Single Customer View procedures are in place so that in the event of a Resolution situation a reliable record of customers and balances could be provided to the authorities within 24 hours.
- Develop and maintain effective relationships both internally and externally and maintain awareness of relevant best practice and new initiatives.
- Drive continuous IT, system, process and risk mitigation improvements adhering to best practice and aligning with business objectives.
- Maintain an overall control environment that keeps customer data safe and secure.
- Set and implement a robust cyber security strategy and ensure that the environment is maintained.
- Chair the Information Security Sub-Committee.
- Manage and own the relationships and contractual arrangements with existing and future Technology and related partners, ensuring they are held to account and deliver.
Requirements
Qualifications
- Degree-level education or equivalent experience.
Skills & Knowledge
- Strategic thinker with strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.
- Proven ability to align IT with business goals and manage complex projects.
- Strong understanding of financial systems, IT governance, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance.
- Skilled in Agile, product delivery, and interpreting complex data and regulations.
Experience
- 5+ years in senior technology leadership within financial services.
- Track record of delivering digital transformation and managing risk.
- Experience leading teams, managing budgets, and presenting at Board level.
Desirable
Qualifications
- PRINCE2, CISM/CISSP, or equivalent certifications.
- Membership of a relevant professional body.
Skills & Knowledge
- Experience with UX design, AI/ML, cloud, and DevOps.
- Knowledge of T24 and technology in savings and lending sectors.
- Customer-focused with a continuous improvement mindset.
Experience
- Broad financial systems expertise and service delivery management.
- Familiarity with business/process improvement methodologies.