Manager - IT Strategy and Planning

Position Overview

As a pivotal leader within the organization, the Manager - IT Strategy and Planning plays a critical role in shaping and executing the Technology strategy to drive sustainable growth and operational excellence. This position is responsible for aligning technology initiatives with corporate objectives, ensuring robust governance, and fostering innovation to support Qiddiya’s long-term vision. The role demands a strategic mindset, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a deep understanding of technology’s role in achieving business success.

Core Responsibilities

Technology Strategy & Governance

The Manager - IT Strategy and Planning will develop, refine, and oversee the execution of a comprehensive Technology strategy that aligns with the organization’s business objectives. This includes:

• Designing and maintaining a forward-looking Technology roadmap that supports organizational priorities and drives competitive advantage;
• Establishing and refining the Technology operating model and governance framework to ensure clarity, accountability, and efficiency;
• Defining and tracking strategic objectives and key performance indicators (OKRs/KPIs) to measure progress and impact;
• Facilitating governance forums, steering committees, and executive-level reporting to ensure transparency and alignment across all stakeholders.

Strategic Planning & Portfolio Management

In this capacity, the role will lead the annual strategic planning and workforce planning processes, ensuring that technology investments are prioritized and aligned with business needs. Responsibilities include:

• Developing and maintaining a dynamic Technology portfolio roadmap that reflects investment priorities and strategic alignment;
• Coordinating cross-functional initiatives to ensure seamless integration of technology solutions with business requirements;
• Monitoring portfolio performance, identifying risks and dependencies, and optimizing resource allocation to maximize value;
• Supporting the evaluation and selection of strategic technology initiatives through rigorous analysis and stakeholder engagement.

Budgeting & Financial Planning

The Manager - IT Strategy and Planning will collaborate closely with Finance and business stakeholders to manage the Technology budgeting and forecasting processes. This includes:

• Leading the development of annual budgets, forecasts, and investment plans that align with strategic objectives;
• Monitoring budget utilization, identifying cost optimization opportunities, and ensuring financial discipline;
• Supporting the creation of compelling business cases and investment justifications for high-impact technology initiatives;
• Analyzing financial performance and providing actionable insights to enhance decision-making.

Performance Management & Reporting

To ensure transparency and accountability, the role will develop executive dashboards, performance reports, and management presentations. Key tasks include:

• Tracking strategic initiatives, milestones, deliverables, risks, and benefits realization to ensure timely and effective execution;
• Preparing comprehensive reports and presentations for executive leadership, governance boards, and key stakeholders;
• Analyzing technology performance metrics and recommending data-driven improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency;
• Facilitating continuous feedback loops to drive alignment and accountability across the Technology function.

Transformation & Continuous Improvement

The Manager - IT Strategy and Planning will champion strategic transformation programs and drive organizational improvement initiatives. This involves:

• Leading enterprise-wide transformation programs that enhance technology capabilities and business agility;
• Identifying opportunities to optimize technology processes, governance structures, and operating models;
• Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence across the Technology function;
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement best practices and innovative solutions that deliver measurable value.

Qualifications & Experience

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field;
• Master’s degree (MBA or equivalent) is preferred;
• Professional certifications such as PMP, ITIL, TOGAF, COBIT, or strategic management certifications are highly desirable.

Professional Experience

• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in Technology Strategy, IT Planning, PMO, Management Consulting, or Technology Governance;
• Proven track record in large-scale organizations, digital transformation programs, or complex enterprise environments;
• Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, portfolio management, budgeting, and executive reporting;
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence and drive change at all levels of the organization.