About the Role: A strong API Strategy Lead with expertise in IBM API Connect and industry experience of 15+ years to drive customer’s API platform enablement & consolidation initiatives. Will need to play a crucial role in shaping the API strategy, ensuring that customer’s API ecosystem aligns with business objectives, and optimizing the use of IBM APIC for seamless integration, security, and scalability. The lead is expected to bring-in strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of API management, and a solid technical background in implementing and managing APIs with IBM APIC. Key Responsibilities: API Strategy Development: · Develop, execute, and refine the overall API strategy to support business goals, enabling digital transformation, enhanced customer experiences, and new revenue streams. IBM APIC Expertise: · Lead the implementation, optimization, and management of IBM API Connect (APIC) across the organization to ensure a smooth, secure, and scalable API ecosystem. Leverage IBM APIC capabilities to monitor, manage, and improve API performance. API Design and Governance: · Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, product management, etc.) to design APIs that follow best practices and meet business requirements. Establish and enforce API governance policies for security, versioning, documentation, and lifecycle management. Platform Integration: · Drive integration of IBM APIC with various backend systems, cloud services, and third-party applications, ensuring robust and seamless communication between different environments. Collaboration & Leadership: · Partner with IT leadership, developers, and business stakeholders to ensure alignment between API initiatives and overall company objectives. Provide mentorship and guidance to junior team members on API strategy and management using IBM APIC. Performance Optimization: · Monitor API performance, analyze API usage metrics, and identify areas for improvement to ensure optimal efficiency, scalability, and security. Ensure proper load balancing, API security measures, and usage policies are implemented. Innovation & Trends: · Stay up-to-date with the latest API trends, technologies, and industry best practices. Advocate for the adoption of modern API practices (e.g., REST, GraphQL) and drive continuous improvement in API strategies. Required Skills and Qualifications: Experience: · Proven experience (5+ years) in API strategy, management, and integration, with a focus on IBM API Connect (APIC). · Strong background in API lifecycle management, from design and development to monitoring and retirement. · Hands-on experience with API management platforms, preferably IBM APIC. · In-depth understanding of RESTful and SOAP APIs, JSON, XML, OAuth, OpenAPI specifications, and other relevant technologies. · Technical Skills: · Expertise in API governance, security protocols (OAuth 2.0, OpenID Connect), and access management. · Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, IBM Cloud) and how APIs interact with cloud-based applications. · Experience in automating API deployments, CI/CD pipelines, and API testing using industry tools. · Leadership and Communication: · Strong ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with business leaders, technical teams, and external stakeholders. · Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable strategies for non-technical stakeholders. · Problem Solving: · Excellent analytical skills and the ability to solve complex technical issues, optimize API performance, and ensure high availability.