Director – Digital & Technology

Overview

This leadership role is responsible for crafting and executing an extensive three-phase digital strategy for the Abu Dhabi Food Hub (ADFH). It governs the deployment of smart operational technologies initially, the rollout of a digital marketplace platform, and the development of a regional AI-enabled platform, while handling partnerships and vendor management.

Key Duties

• Develop and implement digital marketplace strategies to facilitate B2B trade, tenant engagement, and supplementary services.
• Lead the creation of AI-driven features such as demand forecasting, predictive analytics, and optimization of supply chains.
• Design foundational data architectures to enable advanced data insights and AI functionalities.
• Oversee system integrations with Abu Dhabi Trade & Logistics Platform (ATLP) and other government entities.
• Plan feature rollouts using prioritized roadmaps and define minimum viable products for iterative delivery.
• Ensure Phase I tech components (including CRM, ERP, access controls) are completed by July 2026.
• Conduct technology gap analyses and formulate procurement strategies for required systems.
• Assess compatibility between KEZAD Group infrastructure and ADFH’s new system needs.
• Lead vendor selection and RFP processes for technology acquisitions and services.
• Coordinate technology deployment aligned with physical site readiness for October 2026 launch.
• Manage continuous platform evolution post-launch with regular feature updates.
• Track platform usage, user engagement, and business performance metrics.
• Steer ongoing improvements to tenant digital experiences and associated services.
• Guide progression from initial smart-operated systems to a fully AI-powered regional platform in future horizons.
• Build and lead a focused digital product team to support platform growth.

People & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with KEZAD CTO and technology departments to maximize infrastructure utility.
• Collaborate closely with Commercial, Operations, and Administrative units to synchronize digital initiatives with business goals.
• Manage external consultants and vendor relationships effectively.
• Ensure harmonized execution across multiple Annual Operating Plans (AOPs).
• Navigate a matrix organizational structure, influencing without direct control, where tech teams report jointly to ADFH CEO and KEZAD Group.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Technology, Supply Chain, or related area; MBA or advanced degree is advantageous.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in digital transformation, technology strategy, or product leadership roles.
• At least 5 years in senior leadership positions with experience in presenting to boards.
• Strong background in launching digital marketplaces or platforms, especially B2B.

Professional Skills & Background

• Excellent stakeholder engagement and executive-level communication capabilities.
• Ability to drive outcomes within complex matrix structures without formal authority.
• Experience managing cross-departmental collaborations involving Commercial, Operations, and Technology teams.
• Robust project management skills capable of handling aggressive deadlines and multiple priorities.
• Adept at balancing strategic vision with practical implementation.
• In-depth knowledge of e-commerce, digital marketplace development, with emphasis on B2B platforms.
• Industry experience in food and beverage, FMCG, supply chain logistics, or related sectors.
• Familiarity with AI and machine learning applications in supply chains and predictive analytics.
• Background in trade platform technologies, logistics solutions, or distribution system management.