Solution Architect (Cards) Contract

Job Title: Solution Architect – Cards Domain

Location: Sharjah, UAE
Industry: Banking
Experience: 12+ Years (Minimum 5–7 years in Cards Domain Architecture)

Role Purpose

We are seeking a highly experienced Solution Architect with deep expertise in the Cards domain to drive the design, architecture, and delivery of scalable card-based solutions within the bank. The role will play a critical part in enhancing the bank’s Cards ecosystem (Credit/Debit/Prepaid) while ensuring alignment with CBUAE regulations, digital transformation initiatives, and enterprise architecture standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Solution Architecture & Design

• Define end-to-end architecture for Cards systems including Issuing, Acquiring, and Processing.
• Design scalable, secure, and high-performing solutions aligned with enterprise architecture.
• Evaluate and recommend technologies for Cards modernization and digital enablement.

2. Cards Domain Expertise

• Lead architecture across:
  • Credit Cards / Debit Cards / Prepaid Cards
  • Card lifecycle management (issuance, activation, authorization, settlement, reconciliation)
  • Transaction processing and switching
• Strong understanding of scheme integrations (Visa, Mastercard, etc.)

3. Integration & Systems Landscape

• Architect integrations between Cards platform and:
  • Core Banking Systems
  • Digital Channels (Mobile / Online Banking)
  • Payment Gateways & Switches
  • Fraud Management & Risk Systems
• Drive API-led and microservices-based architecture.

4. Regulatory & Compliance Alignment

• Ensure solutions comply with:
  • CBUAE regulations
  • PCI-DSS standards
  • Security and data protection policies

5. Stakeholder Management

• Work closely with:
  • Business (Retail Banking, Cards Business Teams)
  • IT Delivery & Development Teams
  • Vendors and third-party providers
• Translate business requirements into robust technical solutions.

6. Delivery Oversight

• Provide architectural governance across project lifecycle.
• Review solution design, code quality, and implementation approach.
• Support UAT, production rollout, and post-implementation optimization.

Key Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

• Strong experience in Cards Platforms (e.g., TSYS, VisionPLUS, Prime, etc.)
• Knowledge of ISO 8583 messaging
• Experience with Payment Switches & Gateways
• API architecture, Microservices, Middleware
• Cloud exposure (preferred but not mandatory)

Domain Expertise

• Deep understanding of:
  • Cards Issuing & Acquiring
  • Payment processing lifecycle
  • Settlement & reconciliation
  • Fraud and risk controls

Soft Skills

• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
• Ability to work with senior leadership and cross-functional teams
• Problem-solving and strategic thinking

Mandatory Requirements

• UAE Banking experience is mandatory
• Proven experience in Cards Domain Architecture
• Strong understanding of CBUAE ecosystem
• Experience working in complex enterprise banking environments