General Manager - IT and Digitalization

Michael Page; Saudi Arabia; On-site; SAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading petrochemical company in Saudi Arabia is seeking a General Manager - IT and Digitalization to lead their digital transformation efforts. The ideal candidate will possess over 20 years of experience in IT leadership, particularly in large-scale transformations within industrial sectors. Responsibilities include developing digital strategies, managing IT operations, and fostering innovation across the organization.

Benefits

Attractive salary

Family benefits

Qualifications

• 20+ years of IT and digital leadership experience.
• At least 10 years in leadership roles.

Responsibilities

• Developing and executing a digitalization strategy.
• Leading a high-performing organization of 100+ IT professionals.
• Driving adoption of AI and automation.

Skills

IT

technology

digital transformation

AI

SAP

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

Master's preferred

Tools

SAP S/4HANA

Job description

Job Title: General Manager - IT and Digitalization

The General Manager - IT and Digitalization will shape the digitalization roadmap and foster the use of AI, innovation, and technology across both corporate IT and operational technology (OT) environments.

The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership capabilities and 20+ years of experience in large-scale IT and digital transformation, ideally within the petrochemical, energy, manufacturing, production, or heavy industrial sectors.

Client Details

Our client is a Saudi petrochemical company based in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. They have large-scale manufacturing and production operations, and ambitious growth plans.

Description

The General Manager - IT and Digitalization will be responsible for:

1. Developing and executing a comprehensive digitalization and innovation strategy across IT and OT domains.
2. Leading and mentoring a high-performing organization of 100+ IT professionals, with oversight of IT operations, cybersecurity, and digital initiatives.
3. Driving the adoption of AI, automation, and smart technologies to improve operational efficiency and business performance.
4. Ensuring optimal utilization and continuous improvement of the SAP S/4HANA platform.
5. Collaborating with executive leadership and business units to embed technology into core operations.
6. Managing the IT and digitalization budget, ensuring cost-efficiency, value delivery, and strategic alignment.
7. Designing and delivering a multi-year digital roadmap aligned with business priorities and regulatory requirements.
8. Establishing and enforcing best-in-class cybersecurity, data governance, and IT service management practices.
9. Actively coaching and developing Saudi national talent, focusing on succession planning and capability building.

Profile

The General Manager - IT and Digitalization will be/have:

1. A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related discipline (Master's preferred).
2. 20+ years of IT and digital leadership experience, with at least 10 years in leadership roles.
3. Deep knowledge of SAP S/4HANA environments, industrial IT systems, and OT integration.
4. Proven success in leading large, complex IT organizations through change and innovation.
5. Experience in talent development, mentoring Saudi nationals, and building succession pipelines.
6. Strong understanding of cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and digital governance.
7. Experience in petrochemical, manufacturing, or heavy industry sectors is highly preferred.
8. Expertise in digital transformation.
9. Stakeholder management and change leadership skills.
10. Excellent communication skills.
11. An innovative mindset and passion for technology.
12. Interest in industry trends and applying them to the organization.
13. Willingness to relocate to the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.

Job Offer

An attractive salary, along with family benefits, is offered for this role.

Skills: IT, technology, digital transformation, AI, SAP