Core Conversion Project Manager

Self-Help•Durham, NC

About The Position

Self-Help is a family of mission-driven non-profit financial organizations committed to economic justice. This role supports the latter stages of acquisition due diligence and collaborates with internal partners for a smooth transition into the conversion lifecycle. The Core Conversion Project Manager will lead the end-to-end planning and execution of core banking system conversions from acquired credit unions to the Self-Help core platform. This involves organizing and leading cross-functional teams, defining project scope, managing timelines, facilitating meetings, communicating risks, and overseeing data migration and testing. The role also ensures regulatory compliance, coordinates training, develops detailed conversion plans, identifies and mitigates risks, and conducts post-conversion analysis. The position requires a strong commitment to Self-Help's mission of creating economic opportunity for underserved communities and a collaborative approach to work.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent related experience.
4 years of direct experience leading core system conversion projects, utilizing structured project management methodologies and best practices.
Experience working within a fast-paced credit union, bank, or other financial institution, preferably within a large or multi-location environment.
Strong working knowledge of banking operations, core systems, and related financial software applications.
Working knowledge of IT security and financial institution data processing systems.
Preference for working in organizations that place priority on teamwork and collaboration.
Strong commitment to our mission – creating economic opportunity for traditionally underserved communities.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
Ability to understand complex information and assess business requirements.
Solid leadership skills and the ability to interface and communicate effectively at all levels.
In depth technology skills including deep knowledge of business software applications and the ability to quickly learn new applications, use of MS Project, MS Office and Visio.
A flexible approach to work and the ability to adapt to changing business needs.
The ability to work within budget limits.
Excellent time management skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
Ability and willingness to travel and work overtime as needed.
Ability to demonstrate Self-Help's Core Values o Mission Before Self o Service With Excellence o Embracing & Promoting Change o Results Not Credit o Diversity as a Strength o Financial Sustainability for Mission Impact

Nice To Haves

Project Management certification (e.g., PMP) preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Support the latter stages of the acquisition due diligence process and collaborate with internal partners to ensure a smooth transition into the conversion lifecycle.
Lead the end-to-end planning and execution of core banking system conversions from acquired credit unions to the Self-Help core platform.
Organize and lead the cross-functional conversion team, ensuring SME representation from areas including Legal, Human Resources, Accounting, Retail Operations, Compliance, Marketing, Internal Audit, Training, IT/IS, Facilities, and Member Support Services.
Define project scope, requirements, resources, timelines, and milestones to ensure effective lifecycle management from planning through post-conversion review.
Facilitate recurring project meetings, provide status updates, and communicate risks, dependencies, and project impacts to stakeholders and leadership.
Manage project execution using modern project management tools (e.g., Asana) and maintain comprehensive project documentation and repositories.
Coordinate with legacy technology service providers and Self-Help vendors to facilitate conversion and termination agreements, Statements of Work (SOWs), and resource commitments, and consolidate associated conversion financials.
Oversee data mapping, migration, and testing processes to ensure accuracy, quality, and successful system integration.
Ensure all regulatory and time-based member notifications related to the conversion are completed in accordance with compliance requirements.
Coordinate training and onboarding support to ensure accreted employees receive the necessary system and process training.
Develop and execute the detailed Day-Of conversion plan, ensuring all tasks, roles, and contingencies are clearly defined and managed.
Identify project risks, develop mitigation strategies, and resolve issues to maintain project timelines and successful outcomes.
Ensure appropriate compliance and legal review occurs throughout the project lifecycle.
Conduct post-conversion analysis and lessons-learned reviews to support continuous improvement in the conversion process.
Develop and present project plans, status reports, and key deliverables to stakeholders and leadership as needed.