Head of IT

KF; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contracting organization in Abu Dhabi is seeking a Head of IT to shape and execute its technology strategy. The successful candidate will lead digital transformation initiatives, oversee IT infrastructure, and ensure compliance with regulations. This role demands a visionary leader with a proven track record in senior IT roles, strong expertise in enterprise systems, and excellent leadership skills. Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in IT or a related field; a Master’s is preferred.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in senior IT leadership roles within large-scale contracting, construction, or infrastructure organizations.
• Strong expertise in enterprise systems and digital transformation.
• Deep understanding of IT governance and compliance frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the IT strategy aligned with business goals.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives.
• Oversee IT infrastructure and ensure system security.
• Establish IT governance frameworks and ensure compliance.
• Implement cybersecurity strategies to safeguard assets.
• Build and lead a high-performing IT team.

Skills

Leadership

Cybersecurity

Digital Transformation

Stakeholder Management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

ERP Systems

Project Management Platforms

Job description

About the Client

Our client is a leading contracting organization headquartered in Abu Dhabi delivering large-scale civil and infrastructure projects across the UAE. Operating under a global holding structure the company is recognized for its financial discipline transparency and strong project governance.

Role Overview

The Head of IT will be responsible for shaping and executing the companys technology strategy ensuring that IT systems and digital platforms effectively support business operations and long-term growth. This role requires a visionary leader who can drive digital transformation strengthen cybersecurity and align IT initiatives with organizational objectives in a complex project-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement the IT strategy aligned with business goals and operational priorities.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives to enhance efficiency scalability and innovation.

Technology & Infrastructure Management

• Oversee IT infrastructure enterprise applications and project management systems.
• Ensure high availability security and performance of core systems.
• Drive adoption of emerging technologies to support engineering construction and project delivery.

Governance & Compliance

• Establish robust IT governance frameworks policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with UAE regulations data protection laws and international standards.
• Manage IT budgets with financial discipline and transparency.

Cybersecurity & Risk Management

• Implement and monitor cybersecurity strategies to safeguard company assets and data.
• Proactively identify and mitigate IT risks across projects and operations.

Team Leadership & Development

• Build and lead a high-performing IT team fostering a culture of accountability and innovation.
• Provide mentorship and career development opportunities for IT professionals

Job Requirements

• Proven track record in senior IT leadership roles within large-scale contracting construction or infrastructure organizations.
• Strong expertise in enterprise systems ERP project management platforms and digital transformation.
• Deep understanding of IT governance cybersecurity and compliance frameworks.
• Excellent leadership communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced project-driven environment with a focus on financial discipline and transparency.
• Bachelors degree in Information Technology Computer Science or related field; Masters degree preferred.

Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates and will refer candidates without regard to race color religion national origin sex age disability veteran status or any other legally protected basis.

Required Experience:

Director