Senior Program Manager

About This Role

About CNTXT AI

CNTXT AI is a leading artificial intelligence company focused on building next-generation AI systems, products, and infrastructure . We specialize in developing advanced AI models, data pipelines, and intelligent applications across multiple domains, including multimodal AI, automation, and robotics . At CNTXT, data is at the core of everything we build. Our mission is to create high-quality, scalable AI systems , powered by world-class data operations and annotation pipelines . We operate globally and are rapidly expanding our capabilities across the UAE, US, and international markets .

Role Summary

CNTXT AI is looking for a Senior Program Manager – Data Operations to lead large-scale data annotation programs that power our AI models and products.

This role is responsible for managing end-to-end annotation programs , coordinating global annotator teams , and ensuring delivery of high-quality, scalable datasets . Based in Abu Dhabi , you will work closely with AI/ML, product, and operations teams to translate data needs into structured, efficient, and high-performing annotation workflows.

The ideal candidate has strong experience in program management, data operations, and leading distributed annotation teams , with a focus on execution, quality, and scalability .

Key Responsibilities

1. Program Management & Execution

• Own and manage end-to-end data annotation programs across multiple projects.
• Define program scope, timelines, milestones, and deliverables.
• Ensure on-time delivery of annotation projects with high quality and efficiency .
• Manage dependencies across teams and proactively mitigate risks.

2. Annotation Operations Oversight

• Oversee operations of annotators, labelers, and QA teams across regions.
• Ensure smooth execution of:
• Task distribution
• Workflow management
• Quality control processes
• Partner with Data Operations Managers and Team Leads to drive performance.

3. Cross-Functional Coordination

• Work closely with:
• AI/ML teams (data requirements and feedback loops)
• Product teams (use cases and priorities)
• Engineering teams (tools and infrastructure)
• Translate technical requirements into clear annotation tasks and guidelines .

4. Quality & Performance Management

• Define and track program-level KPIs:
• Data accuracy and consistency
• Turnaround time (TAT)
• Throughput and productivity
• Implement and monitor quality assurance frameworks .
• Drive continuous improvement through data-driven insights .

5. Workflow Design & Optimization

• Design and optimize annotation workflows and processes .
• Improve efficiency through:
• Automation
• Standardization
• Process improvements
• Identify bottlenecks and implement scalable solutions.

6. Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Manage relationships with external vendors, BPOs, or annotation partners .
• Ensure vendors meet quality, timeline, and cost expectations .
• Communicate program updates, risks, and performance to stakeholders.

7. Capacity Planning & Scaling

• Forecast annotation needs based on:
• Product roadmap
• Model training requirements
• Plan resource allocation and scaling strategies.
• Balance trade-offs between speed, cost, and quality .

8. Reporting & Insights

• Build dashboards and reporting frameworks.
• Provide regular updates to leadership on:
• Program performance
• Risks and mitigation plans
• Optimization opportunities
• Use data to drive strategic decisions .

Required Qualifications

• 6–10+ years of experience in program management, operations, or data operations roles .
• Proven experience managing large-scale data annotation or labeling programs .
• Experience leading distributed teams across multiple regions .
• Experience with annotation tools (Labelbox, Scale AI, or similar).
• Strong project management and organizational skills.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in AI/ML or data-driven companies .
• Familiarity with:
• NLP / LLM datasets
• Computer vision datasets
• Multimodal data
• Experience with process optimization and scaling operations .
• Knowledge of analytics tools or SQL .
• Experience managing outsourced vendors or BPO operations .

Key Traits

• Strong execution and delivery mindset
• Highly organized and detail-oriented
• Data-driven decision maker
• Excellent stakeholder management skills
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, high-growth environments

Success Metrics

• On-time delivery of annotation programs
• Data quality (accuracy, consistency, QA scores)
• Operational efficiency (throughput, turnaround time)
• Cost optimization and scalability
• Stakeholder satisfaction and alignment