Chief Technology Officer (CTO) (Noatum Ports) UAE

JOB PURPOSE

The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is responsible for defining, leading, and executing Noatum Ports’ technology, digital, and automation strategy to support business growth, operational excellence, regulatory compliance and info security, and global expansion.

The role places strong emphasis on Smart Ports, Digital Trade Enablement, and Customs Digitalization, ensuring seamless integration between port operations, customs authorities, and National trade platforms (PCS/NSW).

The CTO will drive the adoption of latest technologies, digital platforms, automation, AI, IoT, and emerging technologies across terminals and international operations, ensuring technology is a strategic business enabler rather than a support function.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Define and execute the enterprise technology and digital roadmap aligned with Noatum Ports and Abu Dhabi Ports Group IT strategy.
• Position technology as a strategic enabler for operations, trade facilitation, and regulatory compliance.
• Advise the CEO, Board, and Executive Committee on technology investments, digital risk, and innovation.
• Lead Smart Port initiatives covering: Terminal Operating Systems (TOS), Port & yard automation (OCR, RFID, gate automation, cranes, yard systems), IoT, M2M, and Industrial Automation, AI, advanced analytics, and digital twins
• Enable end-to-end digitalization of port and logistics workflows, improving productivity, safety, and turnaround times.
• Lead the design and implementation of digital solutions supporting Customs Operations Centers, ensuring: Customs Management Systems, Port Community Systems (PCS) / Trade Single Window platforms
• Ensure systems support 24/7 Customs Operations Centers with high availability, cybersecurity, and auditability.
• Govern enterprise platforms including ERP, TOS, PCS, CRM, ISMS, data platforms, and integration middleware.
• Define enterprise architecture standards across IT, OT, cloud, hybrid infrastructure, and data.
• Ensure scalability, resilience, and interoperability across global port assets.
• Establish cybersecurity strategy covering IT and OT environments, aligned with ISO 27001, NIST, and National cyber frameworks.
• Ensure data sovereignty, regulatory compliance, and secure data sharing with government authorities.
• Own business continuity, disaster recovery, and operational resilience for mission-critical systems.
• Identify and industrialize emerging technologies including AI/ML, robotics, autonomous operations, digital twins, and blockchain.
• Drive innovation in customs digitization, trade facilitation, and cross-border data exchange.
• Build strategic partnerships with technology providers, startups, and ecosystem partners.
• Lead technology due diligence and integration for M&A, joint ventures, and new port developments.
• Ensure new assets are rapidly onboarded into Noatum Ports’ digital, PCS, and customs integration ecosystem.
• Own technology CapEx and OpEx budgets, ensuring ROI and value realization.
• Govern strategic vendors, system integrators, and managed service providers.
• Define the technology operating model, talent strategy, and succession planning.

People Management Responsibilities:

• Build and lead high-performing technology, digital, data, and OT teams across geographies.
• Define the technology operating model, skills roadmap, and succession planning.
• Champion safety, collaboration, and accountability across technology functions.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• CEO, Executive Committee, Board & Government Stakeholders
• Customs Authorities & Border Control Agencies
• Terminal Operations, Engineering, Commercial, Finance, HSE
• Abu Dhabi Ports Group Digital & Trade Platforms (Maqta Gateway)
• Global Technology & Regulatory Solution Providers

Educational and Technical Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
• Master’s degree (MBA, MSc, or equivalent) preferred

Language Skills:

English (Must) and Arabic (preferrable)

Years & Nature of Experience:

• 20+ years of progressive technology leadership experience
• Proven experience in ports, terminals, logistics, infrastructure, transportation, or industrial environments
• Prior experience as CTO, CIO, or Head of Technology in a Port/Terminal Operator, enterprise organizations like Logistics/ Supply Chain operator
• Demonstrated success delivering large-scale digital transformation and automation programs at Ports & connected Logistics
• Strong exposure to OT environments, port automation, and mission-critical systems
• Experience working in multi-country, multicultural environments
• Successful implementation and integration of customs systems across new ports and acquisitions (Green Field / Brown Field – JV/M&A)
• Deep knowledge of the IT ecosystems that ADPG operates in and sharp awareness of relevant trends, working culture, players in the ecosystem, significant industry shifts, etc.
• Excellent strategic thinking and strategic planning skills