Director of Digital Transformation, Data, and Artificial Intelligence

Sundus Recruitment and Outsourcing Services, Abu Dhabi; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Abu Dhabi is seeking a Director of Digital Transformation, Data, and Artificial Intelligence. This pivotal role involves strategizing and implementing innovative digital initiatives aligned with the government's vision, guiding the organization through comprehensive digital transformation efforts. Candidates should possess extensive experience in managing AI and data strategies, coupled with strong educational credentials in related fields. This senior position demands significant leadership skills to foster innovation and enhance operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience, with at least 9 years in managing digital transformation.
• 2 years in an IT leadership position.
• Advanced degrees and relevant certifications highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee implementation of digital transformation and AI initiatives.
• Evaluate current data usage and improve management capabilities.
• Prepare regular reports on activity and performance.

Skills

Data Management

Digital Transformation

Artificial Intelligence

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Master’s degree in Business Administration

Professional certifications (PMP, CDMP, TOGAF, ITIL)

Job description

Job Title

Director of Digital Transformation, Data, and Artificial Intelligence

Job Grade: Advisor

Nationality: UAE Nationals only (For Emiratization)

Minimum Experience: 12+ years

Educational Qualifications / Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or an equivalent relevant field.
• A Master’s degree in Business Administration with a focus in the above disciplines or equivalent is preferred.
• Professional certifications preferred, such as PMP, CDMP, TOGAF, ITIL, etc.
• Minimum of 9 years of hands-on experience in managing digital transformation strategies, AI, and data management — with at least 2 years in an IT leadership position.
  
  

Job Objective

To oversee the implementation of digital transformation, data, and artificial intelligence initiatives in alignment with the Abu Dhabi Digital vision. The role serves as the primary advisor on digital and AI-related decisions, providing comprehensive strategic guidance to drive innovation and enhance institutional and digital efficiency.

Key Administrative & Organizational Responsibilities

• Review and enhance digital resources to create significant improvement in services provided to the public, partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Evaluate the current use of data and develop a plan to fill data gaps and improve AI and data management capabilities.
• Prepare regular activity, financial, and performance reports, highlighting actual vs. planned progress, and report challenges to the direct supervisor.
• Contribute to operational planning, including budget preparation for the administrative unit, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Track functional objectives, KPIs, and implement corrective plans when needed.
• Develop and update policies and procedures in line with institutional regulations.
• Motivate and guide subordinates through feedback, training, and task management.
• Identify staffing, training, and development needs; foster innovation among employees.
• Coordinate with other departments, ensuring alignment and proper flow of information within regulatory frameworks.
• Ensure compliance with workplace health, safety, quality, and innovation policies.
• Coordinate with internal audit and risk management offices to supply data for audits and risk assessments.
• Ensure staff succession planning for critical functions and maintain confidentiality of institutional data.
• Conduct annual performance reviews for direct reports with necessary recommendations.
  
  

Key Technical & Functional Responsibilities

• Oversee evaluation of digital systems and applications, ensuring departmental needs are met through vendor collaboration.
• Supervise IT support and ensure availability of data through GIS and other platforms.
• Take ownership of data governance and management, ensuring data integrity and quality.
• Document current data architecture and define the target roadmap for optimized AI and data practices.
• Ensure continuous data monitoring and compliance with government standards and review mechanisms.
• Manage data cataloging, classification, and the creation of high-quality metadata to position the institution as a leader in AI and data management.
• Design and implement data security policies for documentation, classification, access, and regular reviews.
• Provide data-driven decision support for strategy, knowledge, research, statistics, and service management.
• Establish and maintain a permanent data governance structure with clearly delegated authority and risk controls.
• Lead the development and enhancement of AI and data strategies aligned with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031.
• Supervise pioneering digital projects and core digital service transformations, leveraging generative AI in service delivery and decision-making.
• Ensure digital governance frameworks are in place and aligned with data privacy, cybersecurity, and AI ethics regulations.
• Build internal capacity in digital transformation, AI, and data domains, promoting a culture of innovation and service excellence.
• Foster integration and proactive collaboration with key suppliers and partners.
• Proactively anticipate digital trends and evaluate their potential impact on service delivery, internal efficiency, and user journey enhancements.