Crypto Tech Lead

Crypto Technology Lead / ArchitectLocation: Hong Kong Department: Technology / Digital Asset Build‑out Employment Type: Full‑timeAbout Our ClientOur client is a fast‑growing, licensed Hong Kong financial institution holding SFC Type 1 / 4 / 9 licences. With a presence in Hong Kong and an expanding international footprint across Mainland China, Singapore, and major offshore financial centres, the firm delivers comprehensive investment banking and asset management services to global institutional clients.They are now launching a new Digital Asset / Crypto Infrastructure Build‑out to support future product innovation, cross‑border financial technology, and institutional‑grade blockchain capabilities.This hire will be the first crypto technology specialist in the organisation and will shape the architecture, technology stack, and long‑term roadmap.Position OverviewOur client is seeking a Crypto Technology Lead / Architect to design, build, and deliver the firm's next‑generation digital asset infrastructure. This is a true greenfield role suited for a hands‑on technologist with experience building institutional‑grade crypto systems from scratch.You will collaborate closely with senior management, compliance, operations, and external partners to define strategy, select vendors, and deliver secure and compliant digital asset capabilities.Key Responsibilities1. Architecture & StrategyDefine the end‑to‑end crypto technology roadmap supporting trading, asset management, and investment banking initiatives.Design and build the complete digital asset system architecture, including custody, trading, blockchain connectivity, and data pipelines.Advise senior leadership on crypto technology standards, security frameworks, and best practices.2. Infrastructure Build‑OutLead the greenfield development of:Digital asset trading connectivity (CEX/DEX/API integrations)Wallet infrastructure (MPC, HSM, hot/cold setup, custody vendor evaluation)Blockchain node management or third‑party integrationTransaction monitoring, settlement workflows, internal controlsMarket data capture and analytics tools3. Security & Risk ControlsImplement institutional‑grade cybersecurity and key‑management controls.Ensure compliance with Hong Kong and international regulations (SFC, AML/CTF, auditability).4. Vendor & Partner ManagementSelect and manage vendors across custody, blockchain infrastructure, compliance, and trading.Build external partnerships to support global expansion.5. Product ExpansionSupport development of:Tokenised productsCrypto trading portfoliosStructured digital instrumentsCross‑border blockchain solutionsConduct feasibility studies for future business lines (staking, OTC, DeFi integrations).6. Internal EnablementCreate engineering documentation, standards, and governance frameworks.Establish and lead a crypto technology team in future phases.QualificationsRequired5-10+ years in crypto / blockchain / digital asset technology, ideally within regulated financial institutions.Expertise in:Blockchain networks (Ethereum, BTC, EVM chains)Wallet systems, MPC, key managementAPI‑based trading infrastructureCrypto security and operational controlsStrong hands‑on engineering experience (Python, Go, Rust, TypeScript, Java).Proven ability to build systems from zero to live production.Experience designing secure, scalable, compliant digital asset systems.PreferredFamiliarity with Hong Kong and Mainland China crypto regulatory frameworks.Institutional or buy‑side/sell‑side background.Experience with low‑latency or trading infrastructure.Knowledge of blockchain AML tools (Chainalysis, TRM, Elliptic).What Our Client OffersA rare opportunity to architect and deliver a brand‑new crypto technology platform at a licensed financial institution.Strong compensation aligned to experience.High visibility with senior management and cross‑border markets.Freedom to define technical standards, lead strategy, and build a future team.