Director, Mainframe Innovation and AI

CIBC • Toronto, ON

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

As the Director, Mainframe Innovation & AI at CIBC, you'll lead the Mainframe Operations team in shaping and executing our strategy for innovation, automation, and artificial intelligence within mainframe environments. Working at the heart of CIBC’s technology operations, you’ll collaborate with cross-functional partners to identify and deliver solutions that enhance operational efficiency, elevate the client experience, and drive business outcomes. You’ll define departmental strategies and budgets, oversee the successful delivery of complex mainframe projects, and ensure all initiatives align with organizational goals and industry standards. Your expertise will help position CIBC as a leader in mainframe innovation, while fostering a culture of high performance and continuous learning within your team of up to 5 professionals. You’ll also evaluate emerging technologies and recommend new platforms to ensure our mainframe operations remain at the forefront of innovation. At CIBC we enable the work environment most optimal for you to thrive in your role. You'll have the flexibility to manage your work activities within a hybrid work arrangement where you'll spend 1-3 days per week on-site, while other days will be remote.

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in technology leadership roles, with a proven track record of developing and executing innovative strategies, particularly within mainframe or large-scale enterprise environments.
• Experience managing and developing teams of 10 or more direct reports, fostering a culture of continuous learning and high performance.
• Demonstrated success in delivering complex technology projects—especially those related to mainframe operations—using strong project management and change management skills.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Architecture, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Expertise in mainframe platforms, cloud technologies, and AI tools.
• 6 Sigma Green Belt (Black Belt preferred) and are committed to process optimization and operational excellence.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to translate complex mainframe concepts into clear, actionable information.
• Must be legally eligible to work at the location(s) specified and, where applicable, have a valid work or study permit.

Nice To Haves

• Black Belt in 6 Sigma

Responsibilities

• Define and implement the innovation, automation, and AI strategy for mainframe operations, aligning with CIBC’s goals and translating vision into actionable roadmaps and measurable outcomes.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of up to 10 professionals, overseeing recruitment, onboarding, training, and performance management to build a culture of high performance and growth.
• Oversee the end-to-end delivery of mainframe innovation, automation, and AI projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and on budget, while monitoring key performance indicators.
• Collaborate with internal teams, IT, and external partners to identify requirements, deliver effective mainframe solutions, and communicate project status, risks, and outcomes to senior leadership.
• Ensure all mainframe solutions comply with CIBC’s policies, industry regulations, and ethical standards, developing and enforcing best practices and governance models.
• Stay current with emerging trends in mainframe innovation, automation, AI, and machine learning, and assess new tools, platforms, and vendors to recommend the best solutions for CIBC.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Incentive pay
• Banking benefits
• Benefits program
• Defined benefit pension plan
• Employee share purchase plan
• Vacation offering
• Wellbeing support
• MomentMakers, our social, points-based recognition program
• Purpose Day; a paid day off dedicated for you to use to invest in your growth and development

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director