Senior Innovation Leader

Job description

Who are we? At Finastra, we’re a global leader in financial services software, dedicated to expanding access to financial services and shaping what’s next for the industry. Our technology powers mission‑critical solutions across Lending, Payments and Universal Banking, supporting over 7,000 customers, including 80% of the world’s top 50 banks, in more than 110 countries. Role Summary Lead the innovation agenda across digital assets, stablecoins, alternative payment rails, and AI, while building strategic partnerships and shaping external industry perspective. The role is focused on translating emerging trends into practical, scalable opportunities for the business. Key Responsibilities Strategy and thought leadership- Define a forward-looking strategy across digital assets, alternative payment rails, and AI-driven payments innovation. Develop clear points of view and guide leadership on where the market is heading and where we should play. Use cases and business value- Identify and prioritize high-impact use cases across payments, digital assets, and AI. Build strong business cases with clear ROI, particularly for AI-driven opportunities, and align them to enterprise priorities and commercial outcomes. Solution design and integration- Define how new payment capabilities and rails integrate into existing B2B payment platforms. Translate use cases into clear, actionable requirements for product and engineering teams. Support pilots and help scale successful solutions. AI and emerging technology- Drive an AI-first mindset across payment innovation, including areas like fraud, routing, automation, reconciliation, and forecasting. Stay close to technology trends and translate them into practical, business-ready applications. Partnerships and ecosystem- Engage with key external partners such as Visa, Mastercard, Circle, fintechs, and AI providers. Identify, structure, and manage partnerships that create tangible value. Act as a senior external representative in industry conversations. Work across product, technology, and commercial teams to move ideas from concept through pilot to scaled implementation. Maintain a strong focus on measurable business impact. Qualifications Proven experience in payments, fintech, or innovation roles. Strong understanding of digital assets, alternative rails, and AI applications in B2B payments and Money Movement Use cases. Track record of defining use cases, building ROI-backed business cases, integrating with enterprise payment systems, and managing external partnerships. Strong communication skills and ability to operate with senior stakeholders. We are proud to offer a range of incentives to our employees worldwide. These benefits are available to everyone, regardless of grade, and reflect the values we stand for: Flexibility: Enjoy unlimited vacation, subject to local regulations and business priorities. Benefit from hybrid working arrangements and inclusive policies such as paid time off for voting, bereavement, and sick leave. Well‑being: Access confidential one‑to‑one support through our Employee Assistance Program, connect with our network of Wellbeing Champions and Gather Groups, and take part in monthly events and initiatives designed to help you thrive—inside and outside of work. Health & Financial Security: Medical, life and disability insurance, retirement plans, lifestyle, and other benefits.* Sustainability: Paid time off for volunteering and donation‑matching opportunities to support causes that matter to you. Inclusion: Get involved in our inclusion communities, such as Count Me In, Culture@Finastra, Proud@Finastra, Disabilities@Finastra, and Women@Finastra—open to everyone who wants to participate and contribute. Career Development: Access online learning and accredited courses through our Skills & Career Navigator tool. Recognition: Take part in our global recognition program, Finastra Celebrates, and share your voice through regular employee surveys that help shape our culture and ways of working. *Specific benefits may vary by location. At Finastra, each individual is unique—bringing their own ideas, perspectives, cultural backgrounds, and experiences. We learn from one another, value what makes us different, and create an environment where everyone feels included, supported, and able to be their authentic selves. Be unique. Be exceptional. Help us make a difference at Finastra. Applicants for this position need to be located in posted location or their immediate surrounding areas. Due to the requirements of this position, this job posting is not available for, and Finastra will not be considering any applicants who currently reside in New York City or California.