Senior Program Manager - Digital Transformation

Job Title: Sr. Program Manager Digital Transformation

Location: UAE

Employment Type: Full-Time

Experience Required: 18+ years

Industry: Banking & Financial Services

About the Role:

We are hiring a Senior Program Manager to lead large-scale digital transformation and AI-driven initiatives within the banking and financial services sector in the UAE. This role requires extensive experience in executive program management, close collaboration with C-suites, Boards, and regulators, and the ability to deliver measurable outcomes across technology, innovation, and financial services.

Key Responsibilities:

- Lead end-to-end digital transformation programs, with a strong focus on AI, innovation, and regulatory alignment.

- Act as a strategic advisor to senior leadership and regulatory authorities, aligning programs with the UAE Central Banks FIT program.

- Drive adoption of critical UAE banking initiatives such as Jaywan, Aani, Digital Dirham, eKYC Platform, and Open Finance Regulation.

- Champion Open Finance regulation and Sustainable Finance programs, enhancing consumer protection, financial stability, and digital economy growth.

- Oversee regulatory modernization initiatives, ensuring operational efficiency and compliance.

- Manage multi-disciplinary teams across technology, business, and regulatory functions.

- Represent the organization at global forums, industry events, and executive workshops as a thought leader.

Qualifications & Skills:

- 18+ years of experience in Digital Transformation, Program/Project Management, and AI-led initiatives.

- Proven expertise in banking transformation programs, with at least 8+ years in UAE banking.

- Strong track record of working with Boards, C-suites, and regulators on complex transformation mandates.

- Knowledge of emerging financial infrastructure solutions such as CBDCs, instant payments, Open Finance, and digital identity.

- Exceptional skills in stakeholder management, program execution, and strategic planning.

- Certifications in PMP (mandatory), Scaled Agile (SAFe), Scrum, Design Thinking, or similar are highly valued.

- Strong academic foundation, preferably with international exposure.

Preferred Attributes:

- Ability to bridge business strategy, technology innovation, and regulatory priorities.

- Strong executive presence with excellent influencing and communication skills.

- Deep understanding of the UAEs digital economy, financial regulations, and transformation vision.