Director - Automation

Summary

To build and nurture a future-oriented organization that is pioneering, cutting-edge and perfectly embodies the NEOM core value of being ‘An Accelerator of Human Progress’, enhancing NEOM’s standing as the world’s safest and most secure place to live and work.

The Design and Construction Sector is a forward-thinking and innovative department on a mission to revolutionize the construction industry. With a strong focus on execution speed, cost-efficiency, and environmental sustainability, we are actively seeking an exceptional Director of Automation to join our dynamic team and spearhead the integration of automation innovations into NEOM’s project delivery.

The role will require a high level of interpersonal skills, diplomacy and a culturally appropriate attitude that perfectly embodies the NEOM mindset of diversity.

Position description and responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to identify, evaluate, and integrate automation technologies into our construction projects. Responsible and accountable for delivering initiatives that align with the Sector’s mission of building faster/more efficiently, more cost-effectively, and with a reduced carbon footprint.
• Work with Stakeholders across NEOM (i.e. Projects, Regions, Proponents) to identify areas where automation may contribute positively to project delivery.
• Discover or develop automation solutions which can positively contribute to delivery of NEOM assets in the form of improving asset build speed or reducing asset build cost. Develop business cases to justify implementation of automation solutions.
• Lead a team of experts in automation providing guidance and mentorship. Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, encouraging the exploration of cutting-edge technologies that can be applied to our projects.
• Oversee the implementation of automation technologies. Ensure seamless integration into ongoing construction projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, architecture, sustainability, and project management, to identify opportunities for automation enhancements. Drive cross-functional collaboration to achieve project goals.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact of automation initiatives on construction efficiency, cost reduction, and environmental sustainability.
• Engage with external partners, technology vendors, research institutions, and industry associations to stay informed about emerging trends and potential collaborations.
• Incubate and leverage relationships with academic institutions, research partners, hardware / software vendors and tech startups to identify emerging trends and potential collaborations for NEOM.
• Participate in department staffing needs (e.g. interviewing, hiring, new hire and ongoing training, annual evaluations, etc.)
• Lead preparation of business and investment cases for potential investments/JVs

Knowledge and Experience

• Minimum 15 years' experience in relevant field of expertise (i.e. automation, robotics, software/tech start-up etc), with minimum 10 years senior management experience.
• This position requires a dynamic individual with a proven track record in implementing automation solutions, paired with strong leadership skills and the ability to meet aggressive timelines.
• Demonstrated agile development, commercialization, and entrepreneurial skills
• Experience with management of technology and innovation initiatives and managing projects from ideation through to execution is essential.
• Experience in areas related to infrastructure development, construction management, and or vendor management
• Strong problem solving abilities.
• Visionary thinking and the ability to develop and execute long-term strategies.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Results-driven mindset with a focus on meeting ambitious deadlines.
• Passion for sustainability and innovation in the construction industry.
• Outstanding leadership and organizational skills
• Competent collaborator and skilled cross-functional communicator

Qualifications

• Minimum BS/BA in (Engineering) or related field; Master’s degree preferred