To lead, manage, and optimize the organization's information technology infrastructure, systems, and services, ensuring alignment with business objectives, regulatory compliance (including UAE-specific requirements), and digital transformation goals. The IT Manager plays a pivotal role in supporting operational efficiency, security, and innovation across all departments.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic IT Planning & Alignment
- Develop and implement IT strategies that align with the organization's long-term goals and UAE digital transformation initiatives
- Identify and recommend emerging technologies to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness
IT Infrastructure & Systems Management
- Oversee the management, maintenance, and security of IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, hardware, and software
- Ensure high availability, reliability, and scalability of IT services, including cloud-based and on-premises solutions
- Lead the implementation, integration, and optimization of enterprise systems (e.g., ERP SIS, LMS, Azure)
Cybersecurity & Compliance
- Implement and enforce robust cybersecurity policies and best practices to protect organizational data and systems
- Ensure compliance with UAE and international IT regulations, including data protection and privacy laws
Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity
- Develop and maintain disaster recovery and backup procedures to minimize downtime and data loss
- Lead business continuity planning and execution, especially for critical IT services
- Manage, mentor, and develop other junior members of the IT team, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement
- Oversee IT support and helpdesk operations, ensuring timely resolution of user issues and high customer satisfaction
- Lead IT projects from initiation to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and budget
- Evaluate, select, and manage external vendors and technology partners, negotiating contracts and monitoring performance
Budgeting & Resource Allocation
- Develop and manage the IT department budget, ensuring cost-effective use of resources and alignment with organizational priorities
- Monitor industry trends, conduct regular IT system reviews, and report developments and recommendations to senior management
- Drive digital transformation initiatives and process automation to enhance business agility and efficiency
Qualifications :
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field (master's preferred)
- Professional certifications such as ITIL, PMP, CISSP, CCNA, Microsoft Certified : Azure Administrator, or SAP certification are highly valued
- Proven experience as an IT Manager or similar role, preferably in the UAE or GCC, with expertise in managing IT teams, infrastructure, and enterprise systems
- Strong technical knowledge of IT infrastructure, networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and ERP systems
- Excellent leadership, project management, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Up-to-date understanding of UAE-specific compliance, regulatory, and data protection requirements
- Strong knowledge of cybersecurity, data protection, and compliance standards relevant to research institutions
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage complex projects, and collaborate with diverse research stakeholders
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Experience in the UAE higher education or research sector is advantageous.
System Engineer • ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates