Director – Digital & Technology

This role owns the three-horizon digital roadmap spanning smart physical operations (Horizon 1), digital marketplace platform (Horizon 2), and regional AI-powered platform (Horizon 3), while navigating critical platform partnership decisions and technology vendor relationships.

Core Responsibilities:

• Define and execute digital marketplace product strategy, including B2B trade enablement, tenant services, and value-added services

• Drive development of AI-powered capabilities including demand forecasting, predictive analytics, and intelligent supply chain optimization

• Establish data architecture foundation to support advanced analytics and future AI capabilities

• Manage integration with Abu Dhabi Trade & Logistics Platform (ATLP) and other government systems

• Define feature roadmaps, prioritization frameworks, and MVP scoping for iterative platform releases

• Oversee completion of Phase I technology systems (CRM, ERP, access management) with July 2026 go-live deadline

• Manage technology gap assessment and procurement planning for identified system needs

• Coordinate integration assessments between existing KEZAD Group infrastructure and new ADFH requirements

• Lead RFP processes and vendor selection for new technology platforms and services

• Ensure seamless coordination between technology implementation and physical facility readiness for October 2026 launch

• Own ongoing digital marketplace platform evolution and feature releases after October 2026 launch

• Monitor platform performance, user adoption metrics, and business outcomes

• Drive continuous improvement of tenant experience and digital service offerings

• Manage evolution from Horizon 1 (smart operations) through Horizon 2 (marketplace) to Horizon 3 (AI-powered regional platform)

• Build and lead a small digital product team as the platform scales

People Management Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with KEZAD CTO and technology team to leverage existing infrastructure and capabilities

• Work cross-functionally with Commercial, Operations, and Administration teams to align digital strategy with operational priorities

• Manage consultant and vendor relationships including technology implementers and strategic advisors

• Coordinate across multiple Annual Operating Plans (AOPs) to ensure integrated execution

• Influence without direct authority in a matrix environment where technology team reports to ADFH CEO and KEZAD Group

Educational & Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business, Technology, Supply Chain, or related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred

• 10+ years' experience in digital transformation, product management, or technology strategy roles

• 5+ years at senior leadership level (VP, Director, or equivalent) with board-level presentation experience

• Proven track record of launching digital platforms or marketplaces, preferably in B2B environments

Nature of Experience:

• Exceptional stakeholder management and executive communication skills

• Proven ability to influence and drive results in complex matrix organizations without direct authority

• Experience coordinating across multiple functional teams (Commercial, Operations, Technology)

• Strong project management skills with ability to manage aggressive timelines and competing priorities

• Balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution capability

• Deep experience in digital marketplace or e-commerce platform development (B2B strongly preferred)

• Background in food & beverage, FMCG, supply chain, or logistics industries

• Familiarity with AI/ML applications in supply chain, demand forecasting, or predictive analytics

• Experience with trade platforms, logistics technology, or distribution systems