Terms of Reference (ToR)
Position Title: Software Architect – Gambia interoperability Switch program
Location: GISP Office / Remote (as required)
Duration: 36 months, with possible extension
Reports to: Program Lead, GISP
1. Background
The Central Bank of the Gambia through Gamswitch is embarking on a strategic initiative to implement Mojaloop, a national digital payment platform aimed at promoting interoperability, financial inclusion, and real-time transaction capabilities across banks, mobile money providers, and other financial service entities. To ensure the project’s technical soundness, scalability, and long-term sustainability, Gamswitch is seeking to recruit a seasoned Software Architect.
2. Objective of the Role
The Software Architect will lead the system architecture, design, and technical strategy of the Mojaloop implementation. This role is critical in ensuring that the platform is secure, interoperable, scalable, and aligned with both national regulatory standards and global best practices.
3. Key Responsibilities
The Software Architect will be responsible for the following:
System Design & Scalability
- Design the system architecture for scalability, modularity, and high availability.
- Ensure the platform supports integration with multiple financial institutions and can handle high transaction volumes.
Interoperability & Integration
- Define and oversee the implementation of APIs and integration protocols.
- Ensure seamless interoperability between banks, mobile money operators, and other stakeholders.
Security & Compliance
- Develop and enforce robust security frameworks.
- Ensure compliance with national regulations and global standards such as ISO 20022, PCI DSS, and data protection laws.
Performance & Reliability
- Design for real-time transaction processing with minimal latency.
- Establish mechanisms for disaster recovery and business continuity.
Technical Governance & Decision-Making
- Guide decisions on technology stack, infrastructure (cloud vs. on-premise), and development tools.
- Define coding standards, version control processes, and quality assurance protocols.
Cost Efficiency & Future-Proofing
- Recommend cost-effective solutions that balance performance and maintainability.
- Ensure the architecture is adaptable to emerging technologies like blockchain etc
Collaboration & Stakeholder Management
- Act as the technical liaison between business and IT teams.
- Translate business needs into technical solutions and maintain a clear technical roadmap.
4. Required Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in software architecture and system design.
- Proven experience in large-scale, mission-critical systems, ideally in the financial technology sector.
- Experience with real-time payment systems or Mojaloop is a strong advantage.
- Strong knowledge of system security practices, APIs, and integration strategies.
- Familiarity with regulatory and compliance standards in financial services.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
5. Deliverables
- System Architecture Blueprint and Technical Design Documentation.
- API Specifications and Integration Guidelines.
- Security and Compliance Frameworks.
- Performance Optimization and Testing Reports.
- Technical Roadmap and Technology Stack Recommendations.
- Weekly and Monthly Technical Progress Reports.
6. Reporting and Supervision
The Software Architect will report directly to the Program Lead of the GISP Implementation at Gamswitch and will work closely with other technical leads, development teams, and external stakeholders.
7. Contract Terms
- Type of Contract Fixed-Term
- Remuneration: Attractive
- Duration: 36 Months
- Location: Based at GISP office with flexibility for remote work depending on project needs.
8. Application Process
Interested applicants should submit:
- A cover letter
- Updated CV
- Copies of academic and professional certificates
- Contact details of two professional referees
Deadline for applications: 20th July 2025.
Send applications to: ndabo@iidia.org and copy bdrammeh@gamswitch.com
