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- Tasks: Lead the development of API standards and improve developer experience across teams.
- Company: Major financial services organisation with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of API standards and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of API standards, leadership skills, and experience in regulated tech environments.
- Other info: Join a new team with a focus on improving technology controls and developer experience.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We’re looking for an experienced API Standards Lead to join a major financial services organisation as part of a newly forming Standards & Controls team within the wider CTO function. This is a high-impact contract role where you’ll shape, own and evolve API standards used across the organisation, working closely with engineering teams, product leaders and senior stakeholders to ensure controls are effective, usable and genuinely improve developer experience.
About the Project
The Standards and Controls team is a new capability focused on improving how development teams understand, consume and comply with Technology controls. API standards are a new and critical set of requirements for all teams exposing APIs externally. In this role, you’ll:
- Refine and own the organisation’s API standards
- Engage with a large and varied customer base to understand real-world challenges
- Work alongside engineering teams to integrate, evolve and streamline tooling into a coherent, user-centred journey
The goal: standards that are robust, pragmatic, and genuinely work for teams — not just controls for the sake of compliance.
Key Priorities (What We’re Looking For)
Required
- Strong understanding of defining, setting and designing standards and controls
- A mindset focused on doing what’s right for the bank, not just the quickest or easiest solution
- Deep technical knowledge, particularly around APIs and API development
- Proven ability to lead, influence and guide teams
- Experience coordinating multiple workstreams and defining a clear, coherent strategy
Nice to Have
- Hands-on experience developing APIs or working in API-focused teams
- Knowledge of inventory and asset management
Your Responsibilities
As a senior member of the Standards and Controls leadership team, you’ll work closely with the Head of Standards and Controls. You will:
- Act as a proactive, collaborative and inquisitive leader within the team
- Own, refine and enhance API standards in collaboration with key stakeholders
- Lead and facilitate product planning and prioritisation aligned to a long-term vision
- Align tooling and standards into a clear, consistent customer journey
- Define and communicate product roadmaps to internal customers
- Run and facilitate customer forums focused on API standards
- Ensure customer needs are central to all new work and transitions
- Champion the use of data and metrics to understand adoption, behaviour and pain points
Skills & Experience We Require
- Experience leading development teams or technical initiatives
- Product ownership, product planning and roadmap delivery experience
- Experience working in control-led or regulated technology environments
- Background working within large, global organisations and distributed teams
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate ideas, concerns and trade-offs
- Proven ability to build effective networks and collaborate across teams and disciplines
Location: Sheffield
Working Pattern: Hybrid – 2 days per week on site
API Standards and Controls Lead in Sheffield employer: Vanloq - Workforce Solutions
Contact Detail:
Vanloq - Workforce Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land API Standards and Controls Lead in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your industry on LinkedIn or at local meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around API standards and controls. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or use online platforms. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical aspects like API development and standards.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that role!
We think you need these skills to ace API Standards and Controls Lead in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with API standards and controls. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading teams and influencing stakeholders, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've guided teams or driven initiatives in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key achievements stand out. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vanloq - Workforce Solutions
✨Know Your APIs Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of API standards and development. Brush up on the latest trends and best practices in API design, as well as any specific technologies mentioned in the job description. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to refining and enhancing the organisation's API standards.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and influence teams. Think about times when you've coordinated multiple workstreams or guided teams through complex projects. Be ready to discuss how you can foster collaboration and ensure that customer needs are at the forefront of all new work.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the financial services sector and the specific challenges it faces regarding API standards and controls. This knowledge will allow you to align your answers with the organisation's goals and show that you're not just focused on compliance but also on improving developer experience.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about their current API challenges, how they measure success in their Standards & Controls team, or what tools they currently use. Asking thoughtful questions shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
