Manager, Mainframe Systems Programming

Job Description: Mainframe System Programming Manager

About Us.

Ensono is a hybrid IT services provider that sees a world in transformation. We understand the world of business has become more complex, layered, and interdependent because we’re enabling the IT infrastructure for that transformation. Our clients are some of the most innovative and forward-thinking companies in the world and we help keep their businesses thriving. With nearly 50 years of experience, we optimize and modernize IT infrastructure by amplifying the power of mainframes and mid-range servers with the agility of cloud. Check us out at www.ensono.com

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Mainframe System Programming Manager to lead and manage our mainframe infrastructure operations team. This is a strategic leadership role requiring deep technical expertise combined with proven people management and service delivery capabilities. The ideal candidate will drive operational excellence, modernization initiatives, and team performance across a complex, mission-critical mainframe environment.

Reports To: Director Mainframe System Programming

Location: Hyderabad

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Management

Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 25+ mainframe system programmers and technical staff

Establish and enforce operational standards, best practices, and SLAs across mainframe infrastructure

Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system reliability, performance, and availability

Develop and execute roadmaps for mainframe modernization and infrastructure advancement

Technical Infrastructure Management

Manage large, complex mainframe environments including z/OS Parallel Sysplex, Coupling Facility, and Disaster Recovery (DR) configurations

Design, implement, and maintain enterprise-grade automation solutions using REXX, CLIST, and other scripting tools

Ensure system performance optimization, capacity planning, and resource utilization across multi-CEC environments

Oversee system reliability engineering, high availability strategies, and DR/business continuity protocols

Drive automation-first culture to reduce manual operations and improve efficiency

Project & Change Management

Manage complex mainframe projects using Microsoft Project and Agile/Scrum methodologies

Coordinate release management, change control, and deployment processes

Lead infrastructure modernization initiatives (z/OS enhancements, cloud integration, DevOps adoption)

Ensure compliance with SDLC best practices and regulatory requirements

Balance innovation with stability in mission-critical environments

Client & Stakeholder Management

Serve as primary technical and operational contact for internal and external clients

Deliver service delivery presentations, operational reviews, and performance metrics

Manage client expectations and communicate infrastructure status, incidents, and improvements

Build and maintain strong relationships with business stakeholders and C-suite executives

Develop and present SLA reports, capacity planning recommendations, and infrastructure roadmaps

Team Development & Performance Management

Conduct goal setting, performance evaluations, and career development planning for team members

Recruit, onboard, and retain top mainframe talent in a competitive market

Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture with emphasis on technical excellence

Provide technical mentoring and knowledge transfer to junior engineers

Drive team training and certification programs to maintain skill currency

Required Qualifications

Experience

15+ years in mainframe system programming and infrastructure management

10+ years leading and managing technical teams of 20+ resources

Extensive hands-on experience with large, complex mainframe environments including:

z/OS system administration and internals

Parallel Sysplex and Coupling Facility management

Disaster Recovery (DR) strategies and implementation

Multi-CEC environments and high availability architectures

Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences

Proven ability to lead, influence, and coordinate across geographically distributed and culturally diverse teams

Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to build trust with peers, clients, and leadership

Experience in client-facing roles and providing executive-level reporting

Technical Skills

Advanced proficiency in REXX, CLIST, and other mainframe scripting/automation tools

Demonstrated expertise in at least 2 of the following core areas:

Mainframe Performance and Capacity Management (RMF, SMF, WLM, SCRT)

CICS and MQ Performance Engineering

Mainframe Release and Change Management

Mainframe Workload Scheduler Specialist (IWS/TWS)

z/OS UNIX & zLinux Integration Engineering

z/OS System Engineering

z/OS Automation Engineering

Project & Process Management

Proven expertise in Project Management using Microsoft Project or equivalent tools

Strong understanding of SDLC, Agile, and Scrum methodologies

Experience managing complex enterprise projects in regulated environments

Knowledge of change management, release management, and operational governance

Soft Skills & Client Engagement

Excellent communication skills – both technical and executive-level presentations

Client-facing experience with demonstrated success in service delivery roles

Strong people management capabilities – leadership, coaching, conflict resolution

Strategic thinking – ability to align technical solutions with business objectives

Problem-solving mindset – proven ability to resolve complex technical and operational challenges

Educational Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent professional experience)

Relevant certifications a plus (e.g., IBM mainframe certifications, ITIL, PMP, Agile/Scrum)

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with mainframe modernization initiatives (Zowe, z/OSMF, API-driven architecture)

Knowledge of DevOps practices and infrastructure-as-code in mainframe contexts

Exposure to hybrid cloud environments and mainframe integration with x86/Linux

Multi-site or globally distributed team management experience