Senior Manager - Project Manager - Digital Transformation and Value

About This Role

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Project Manager to oversee the implementation of innovative smart city services. This role is critical in coordinating and managing Qiddiya's smart city delivery projects, integrating technology and infrastructure to create efficient, sustainable, district-level urban environments.

The ideal candidate is not expected to be deeply technical but should possess a strong understanding of the Master System Integrator (MSI) lifecycle, including design-build-operate and design-build-transfer models. Additionally, the candidate should be well-versed in artefact delivery and review processes, ensuring high-quality project execution.

Focus Area Visitor And Resident Experience This role focuses on software platforms, AI integration, and data-driven services that enhance city operations and elevate the overall experience for residents and visitors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end delivery of cloud, hybrid, and on-premises applications, including AI-driven operational solutions.
• Drive benefit realization by ensuring digital solutions are effectively adopted by city departments (e.g., City Operations, Security Operations) to achieve measurable ROI.
• Manage Agile and DevOps delivery cycles, ensuring key governance gates (e.g., data privacy, ethical compliance) are met without impacting delivery timelines.
• Represent City Operations IT in Asset Infrastructure Design & Delivery and Technical Design Working Groups to ensure cross-functional alignment.
• Navigate and manage the technical stage-gate process for physical assets, ensuring full compliance with architecture and security requirements prior to deployment.
• Coordinate with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure seamless integration between digital systems and physical infrastructure.
• Oversee the Master System Integrator (MSI) lifecycle, including design, build, operate, and transfer phases of smart city services.
• Ensure rigorous quality control of all project deliverables through structured artefact review processes aligned with international standards.
• Collaborate with Qiddiya Technology (QTECH), districts, and business units to manage system integration and smart service deployment.
• Provide strategic insights, progress updates, and performance reporting to executive leadership and the QIC City Operations IT PMO.
• Lead procurement activities, including RFP development, vendor selection, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement.
• Maintain comprehensive project documentation, ensuring transparency through high-quality reporting and audit-ready records

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10+ years of experience as a Programme/Project Manager, preferably within smart city initiatives or large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of the Master System Integrator (MSI) lifecycle, including design-build-operate and design-build-transfer models.
• Proven experience in managing the delivery and review of project artefacts in complex environments.
• Solid understanding of systems integration and smart service deployment within urban ecosystems.
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and organisational capabilities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and diverse stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience managing AI/ML project lifecycles and ensuring data interoperability across multiple departments and systems.
• Professional certifications in MSP, P3O, and MoP.
• Proficiency in project management tools such as MS Project and Primavera P6.

Preferred Qualifications

• PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent project management certification.
• Experience in system verification, validation, and commissioning processes.
• Strong knowledge of change management practices and user-centric design principles.
• Proficiency in ACONEX or similar project/document management platforms