Programme Manager - API Enablement & Integration Orchestration

SUMMARY:
We are seeking an experienced delivery leader to manage an API Enablement Programme.

POSITION INFO:
We are seeking an experienced delivery leader to manage an API Enablement Programme focused on establishing an Integration Orchestration Layer within a large retail organisation. This is a contract role, onsite based in Cape Town. The successful candidate will coordinate technical delivery, business priorities and dependent projects while engaging directly with the CIO and other C-suite executives. This role requires an assertive, credible leader who can challenge constructively, drive decisions and take practical ownership of delivery within a lean environment. Key Responsibilities Lead end-to-end programme planning and delivery, defining scope, outcomes, milestones, resources and dependencies. Coordinate the teams delivering API enablement, integration capabilities and the orchestration layer. Work with architecture, development, infrastructure, security and business teams to align delivery with enterprise requirements. Manage dependencies across systems, workstreams, vendors and related projects. Establish programme governance, maintain delivery visibility and escalate risks with clear recommendations. Engage directly with executive sponsors, presenting progress, delivery options, risks and decisions required. Drive integration testing, business readiness, deployment planning and transition into operational support. Take a hands-on approach to resolving delivery issues and coordinating activities beyond traditional programme management boundaries. Essential Requirements At least seven years of relevant project, programme or technology delivery experience, with a proven record of delivering complex initiatives. Strong technical understanding of APIs, enterprise integration, system dependencies and integration orchestration. Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple workstreams and manage cross-functional delivery. Proven experience delivering for a CIO or other C-suite executive sponsor. Confidence engaging senior executives, challenging assumptions and holding teams accountable. Strong planning, governance, risk management and stakeholder communication skills. Willingness to work onsite four days per week and accommodate executive schedules. Preferred Experience Retail experience is highly valued. Candidates without retail experience must demonstrate strong executive engagement and delivery experience, ideally on CIO-sponsored initiatives. Experienced Senior Project Managers or technical delivery leaders moving into programme management may be considered where they demonstrate the required technical depth, executive credibility and delivery ownership.