Chief Technology Officer

Role overview

An experienced Chief Technology Officer is needed to steer the organization’s technology direction and digital transformation efforts, with clear alignment to Saudi Vision 2030 and broader national digitalization goals. The role focuses on building secure, scalable, and citizen-focused digital services within a tightly regulated government setting.

Key responsibilities

• Create and implement a comprehensive technology roadmap that supports organizational priorities and Vision 2030 objectives.
• Direct major digital transformation programs and e-government initiatives across the business.
• Ensure adherence to Saudi regulatory requirements, including standards issued by the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA), SDAIA (Saudi Data & AI Authority), and CITC/CST.
• Own the organization’s enterprise IT architecture, infrastructure, and application development functions.
• Promote the use of cloud platforms, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and intelligent digital solutions.
• Maintain a strong cybersecurity framework and effective data governance practices.
• Collaborate closely with senior government leaders, ministries, and regulatory bodies.
• Manage vendors, lead RFP activities, and coordinate system integrators on large-scale programs.
• Recruit, develop, and guide high-performing technology and digital teams.
• Oversee multi-million SAR budgets while maintaining efficiency, control, and transparency.
• Put robust IT governance, risk management, and service delivery standards in place.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 15 years of progressive technology leadership experience, including senior positions such as CTO, CIO, or Director of Technology.
• A demonstrated history of delivering large public-sector or government transformation initiatives in Saudi Arabia or the GCC.
• Strong familiarity with Saudi regulatory, compliance, and governance frameworks.
• Hands-on expertise in enterprise architecture, systems integration, cloud environments, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
• Experience operating in complex environments with multiple stakeholders and high governance demands.
• Strong leadership ability, communication skills, and stakeholder management capability.

Preferred qualifications

• Exposure to Vision 2030 programs and digital government initiatives.
• Professional credentials such as TOGAF, CISSP, PMP, or ITIL.
• Arabic language ability is strongly preferred.

Core competencies

• Strategic planning and execution
• Public-sector stakeholder management
• Leadership for digital transformation
• Regulatory compliance and risk control
• Innovation mindset and technology foresight

Additional information

This is a technology leadership position based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The work arrangement is onsite and the role is offered on a contract basis.