Head of IT - Cloud Native / AI Native

Michael Page; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 350,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced IT strategist to architect the tech landscape for a new digital-first organization. You will build and execute a full stack IT strategy, design managed services, and ensure systems are scalable and AI-enabled. This high-impact role offers a hybrid work model and visibility from day one in a greenfield setup.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading agile, cloud native IT setups within high growth, complex tech driven organisations in the UAE.
• Demonstrated ability to build full stack corporate services using scalable, AI-native platforms.
• Strong track record of working across multiple vendors to deliver integrated, future ready solutions.

Responsibilities

• Build and execute a full stack IT strategy from scratch aligned with business goals.
• Design and implement a managed services model for all corporate IT functions.
• Set up networking, identity management, and operational infrastructure.

Skills

Cloud/AI

Job description

Overview

This is a foundational role responsible for architecting and enabling the entire tech landscape of the business. The focus is on curating and integrating cloud native, AI native platforms across core business functions. You will lead the setup of IT managed services and corporate systems that are fast to deploy, future proof, and deeply embedded with intelligent automation.

Responsibilities

• Build and execute a full stack IT strategy from scratch aligned with business goals
• Design and implement a managed services model for all corporate IT functions
• Set up networking, identity management, and operational infrastructure
• Lead vendor selection, RFP processes, and SLA management
• Integrate cloud native platforms across core business functions
• Ensure all systems are AI enabled and scalable from inception
• Operate with minimal internal IT footprint, leveraging external partnerships
• Establish governance, security and compliance protocols

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading agile, cloud native IT setups within high growth, complex tech driven organisations in the UAE
• Demonstrated ability to build full stack corporate services (HR, Finance, Procurement) using scalable, AI-native platforms
• Strong track record of working across multiple vendors to deliver integrated, future ready solutions
• Hands on leader with strategic vision and the ability to execute rapidly in greenfield environments
• Comfortable operating in lean, high impact settings with minimal legacy infrastructure
• Experience delivering enterprise grade systems in environments where speed, innovation, and scale are critical from day one

Job Offer

• Opportunity to define and lead the tech strategy of a new digital first organisation
• High-impact role with direct influence on platform architecture and vendor strategy
• Agile, non-bureaucratic environment with flexible budget parameters
• Hybrid work model with strong on-prem presence
• Visibility and ownership from day one in a greenfield setup

Skills

Cloud/AI