Chief Technology Officer

Job Purpose

Technology Strategy & Digital Transformation

• Develop and implement the company’s IT and digital transformation strategy aligned with business goals and regulatory requirements.
• Drive technology innovation and automation initiatives to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.
• Evaluate and introduce fintech solutions, artificial intelligence tools, automation systems, and digital technologies to support business growth.
• Ensure alignment of technology initiatives with organizational objectives and future expansion plans.

Mobile Application & Digital Platforms

• Lead the design, development, implementation, and management of the company’s mobile application and digital services.
• Introduce digital services including:
• Online remittance
• Digital onboarding
• KYC verification
• Bill payments
• Transaction tracking
• Customer notifications
• Loyalty and rewards integration
• Digital wallet and payment integrations
• Ensure the mobile application and digital platforms comply with CBUAE regulations, AML/KYC requirements, and cybersecurity standards.
• Monitor digital platform performance, customer adoption, uptime, and service enhancements.

IT Infrastructure & Operations

• Oversee all IT infrastructure including servers, networks, cloud systems, branch connectivity, VPNs, communication systems, and transactional platforms.
• Ensure high availability, reliability, scalability, and performance of all systems and applications.
• Manage and support all exchange systems, remittance systems, WPS systems, and operational platforms.
• Ensure proper backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity processes are maintained and tested regularly.

Technology Strategy & Digital Transformation

• Emphasis on AI first strategy and frameworks under the guidelines and best practices of UAE Smart Govt.
• Responsible for developing, executing, and overseeing organization's AI strategy.
• Ensure ethical, compliant, and efficient AI adoption across departments.
• Fostering AI literacy and building teams to support adoption.
• Drive collaborative engagements between IT teams and Business units to bridge gaps and attain business goals
• .

Cybersecurity & Risk Management

• Establish and maintain strong cybersecurity frameworks and controls to protect company systems, customer data, and digital platforms.
• Conduct vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and cybersecurity risk reviews.
• Ensure proper user access management, system monitoring, endpoint security, and incident response procedures are implemented.
• Lead cybersecurity awareness and training programs for employees.
• Manage cybersecurity incidents, investigations, and corrective actions.

Regulatory Compliance & Governance

• Ensure all technology operations comply with CBUAE regulations, cybersecurity standards, AML/KYC requirements, and internal governance policies.
• Support internal and external audits by ensuring proper documentation, controls, evidence, and compliance reporting.
• Develop and maintain IT policies, SOPs, governance frameworks, and technology standards.
• Ensure proper segregation of duties, access controls, and system authorization processes are maintained.

Vendor & Project Management

• Manage relationships with IT vendors, software providers, fintech partners, telecom providers, and system integrators.
• Lead end-to-end IT projects, digital initiatives, and system implementation activities.
• Negotiate contracts, SLAs, licensing agreements, and technology partnerships.
• Ensure technology projects are completed within approved timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and manage the IT and digital teams while ensuring effective performance management and succession planning.
• Develop a culture of innovation, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the technology function.
• Ensure continuous technical and cybersecurity training for IT employees.
• Support management and departments with technology-related guidance and operational improvements.

Reporting & Business Intelligence

• Develop dashboards, management reports, and business intelligence systems to support operational monitoring and strategic decision-making.
• Monitor system performance, technology risks, customer feedback, and digital adoption trends.
• Provide regular technology updates and strategic recommendations to senior management and the Board.

Financial KPIs

• Successful launch and implementation of company mobile application
• Increase in digital customer adoption and digital transactions
• System uptime achievement across all critical systems and platforms
• Number of cybersecurity incidents and technology breaches
• IT audit findings closure rate
• Reduction in operational disruptions and system downtime
• Completion of IT projects within approved timelines and budgets
• Improvement in operational efficiency through automation initiatives
• Customer satisfaction related to digital services and technology platforms
• Vendor SLA compliance and service performance
• Business continuity and disaster recovery testing completion
• Reduction in manual operational processes
• IT support ticket resolution within SLA timelines
• Compliance with CBUAE technology and cybersecurity requirements

Behavioral Competencies

• Strategic Leadership

• Team Leadership & Coaching

• Analytical Thinking
• Change Management

• Adaptability & Continuous Improvement

• Attention to Detail

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (Master’s Degree preferred).
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in Information Technology and Digital Transformation within Banking, Exchange House, Financial Services, or Fintech industry.
• Minimum 5 years in a senior technology leadership role.
• Proven experience in mobile application implementation and digital transformation projects.
• Strong knowledge of:
• Exchange and remittance systems
• Cybersecurity frameworks
• Cloud infrastructure
• Digital banking and fintech solutions
• Payment systems and integrations
• IT governance and compliance
• Strong understanding of CBUAE regulations, cybersecurity standards, and AML/KYC requirements applicable to financial institutions.
• ·Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISM, PMP, ITIL, CEH, or Cloud certifications will be an advantage.

Other Requirements

• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple critical technology projects simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of financial technology trends and digital innovation.
• Ability to interact with regulators, auditors, vendors, and senior management professionally.
• High ethical standards, confidentiality, and risk management awareness.
• Resilient and able to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.