Head of IT - KSA

Job PurposeThe role is responsible for overseeing IT systems operations across the Bank's Saudi branches, implementing agreed IT plans, and supporting the development and enhancement of the technology infrastructure required to support the Bank's operations.The position oversees the availability, performance, continuity, and efficiency of banking systems, payment platforms, applications, databases, networks, and related infrastructure, while ensuring alignment with the Bank's IT strategy, policies, regulatory requirements, business needs, and technological developments.Key ResponsibilitiesParticipate in developing IT policies and procedures for the Saudi branches in alignment with the Bank's overall IT direction and in coordination with Head Office ITImplement the approved IT strategy, annual objectives, and operational plans within agreed budgets and in coordination with Head Office IT and the CEO - Saudi BranchesLead and supervise the IT team, set annual objectives, monitor day-to-day performance, evaluate employees, and support their professional developmentParticipate in the evaluation and selection of IT systems, hardware, services, and technology solutions, including the technical and financial assessment of vendor proposals and tendersOversee data backup activities and ensure business continuity, including management of the primary data center and disaster recovery site and maintaining effective connectivity and data synchronization between both locationsAssess current and future business and user requirements and coordinate the development and enhancement of IT systems and infrastructureRegularly monitor the availability, reliability, continuity, and performance of information systems, communication platforms, operating systems, networks, and related technology infrastructureReview and analyze system incidents and prepare relevant reports covering banking systems, payment applications, databases, backup solutions, and communication systems, ensuring that root causes are identified and appropriate corrective actions are implementedKeep abreast of technological developments and ensure that appropriate information security, confidentiality, and protection measures are applied across systems, devices, and networksManage relationships with technology vendors and service providers, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations, service requirements, and agreed timelinesEnsure that daily IT operations are performed in accordance with approved policies, procedures, controls, and delegated authoritiesReview operational and control reports as well as internal and external audit findings and ensure that appropriate corrective actions are taken.corrective actionsRequirementsQualifications & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related fieldMinimum of 10 years of relevant IT experience, including at least 3 years in a managerial or supervisory roleExcellent command of written and spoken EnglishStrong knowledge of operating systems, network infrastructure, and enterprise IT environmentsStrong knowledge of banking systems and payment platformsKnowledge of database management and supporting programming languagesGood understanding of risks associated with electronic banking services and technology operationsKnowledge of applicable banking regulations, regulatory requirements, and relevant legal frameworksExperience in budget planning and managementKey CompetenciesStrong leadership and people-management skillsAnalytical and problem-solving capabilitiesStrong planning and organizational skillsEffective communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to motivate teams and promote collaborationStrong understanding of IT policies, procedures, controls, and governance requirementsAbility to perform effectively in a demanding and fast-paced environment