VP Middleware Technology

American Electric Power•Columbus, OH

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Vice President of Middleware Technology will lead the strategy, development, and implementation of middleware solutions that support the organization’s business objectives. This role requires a strategic thinker with extensive experience in middleware architecture, integration technologies, and a deep understanding of enterprise systems.

Requirements

Deep expertise in middleware platforms such as MuleSoft, Apache Kafka, and other enterprise integration tools.
Strong understanding of enterprise integration patterns, message-oriented middleware, and event-driven architectures.
Proven experience designing and implementing high-availability, scalable, and secure middleware solutions across hybrid environments.
Proficiency in cloud-based middleware services (e.g., Azure Integration Services, AWS AppFlow, Google Cloud Pub/Sub).
Familiarity with DevOps and CI/CD pipelines for middleware deployment and automation.
Knowledge of API management, service mesh, and container orchestration (e.g., Kubernetes, OpenShift).
Solid grasp of middleware security protocols, including encryption, authentication, and authorization standards.
Experience with monitoring, logging, and performance tuning of middleware systems to ensure reliability and efficiency.
Ability to evaluate emerging technologies and align them with enterprise architecture and business strategy.
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
Minimum 15 of years of experience in middleware technologies and enterprise integration.
Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams and managing large-scale technology projects.
Strong knowledge of integration patterns, APIs, and middleware platforms (e.g., IBM MQ, MuleSoft, Apache Kafka).
Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, with a focus on building relationships across the organization.

Nice To Haves

Experience with cloud-based middleware solutions.
Familiarity with DevOps practices and tools.
Knowledge of security standards and practices related to middleware technologies.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision Develop and execute the middleware technology strategy that enhances organizational capabilities and drives competitive advantage.
Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of middleware solutions.
Manage and mentor a team of middleware developers and engineers.
Evaluate and recommend new technologies to enhance middleware capabilities.
Monitor performance and reliability of middleware services and address any issues promptly.
Develop budgets and forecasts for middleware technology initiatives.
Ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices in middleware architecture.
Manage relationships with vendors and third-party service providers.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of applications and systems.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives within technology operations to enhance service delivery and reduce operational risks.
Facilitate communication and collaboration between IT and other business units to foster a culture of transparency and accountability.
Build and retain a high-performing technology team with the right mix of skills, experience, and leadership potential.
Design career paths and succession plans that support long-term organizational growth.
Foster a customer-first culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the technology organization.