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.

Responsibilities

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

Qualifications

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