Job Title: Release Train Strategist II Location: Toronto, ON (4 days onsite/week) Contract: 12 months (possibility of extension/conversion) Summary: The main function of a release train strategist is to coordinate and guide the planning, deployment, and delivery of software across various teams within the organization. A typical release train strategist is responsible for ensuring that the release train operates smoothly, adhering to schedules, and meets the predetermined goals of the business.

Job Responsibilities:

• Facilitate program increment (PI) planning sessions, ensuring alignment of team objectives with the organizational vision.
• Monitor progress across teams to ensure adherence to timelines and manage interdependencies within the release train.
• Proactively identify and resolve obstacles and issues that affect release schedules and product quality.
• Work with product management and other stakeholders to define and prioritize features and capabilities for forthcoming releases.
• Encourage collaboration and improve communication between teams, fostering a continuous improvement of culture.
• Generate and report key metrics to track release train performance and ensure continuous delivery is optimized.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) and Agile methodologies, particularly Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe).
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and teams simultaneously.
• Proficient in Agile project management tools (e.g., JIRA, Confluence) and metrics dashboards.
• Strong facilitation and conflict resolution skills to manage cross-team communications effectively.
• Deep knowledge of program and portfolio management practices. - Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport with teams and stakeholders. MUST-HAVE Hard Skills: 2+ years of Project Manager, Scrum Master, RTE experience Must have project or feature delivery experience within the payments industry that involves payment networks or mobile wallet providers. Strong working knowledge of Scaled Agile Strong understanding of end-to-end payment processing – authorizations, settlements and clearing and related technical infrastructure SOFT SKILLS: Very strong and clear communication (written and verbal) Strong problem-solving skills Strong facilitation skills Self-motivated, well organized, able to work both independently and in a team environment Attention to detail and someone who is a self-starter and adaptable

NICE-TO-HAVE Scrum Master, PMP, Safe Agile certifications