Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (CAIO)

Our client is a leading diversified holding group with operations spanning FMCG, Hospitality, Healthcare, Retail, Construction, Real Estate, Fintech, Telecommunications, and other strategic sectors. As part of its enterprise transformation agenda, the Group is establishing a central Artificial Intelligence Office to accelerate AI adoption, improve operational efficiency, strengthen decision-making, and unlock new sources of business value across its portfolio companies.

The AI Office will operate as a shared strategic function, partnering with each subsidiary to identify, prioritise, and implement AI initiatives while establishing governance, standards, and best practices across the Group.

Reporting directly to the Group CEO, the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer will establish and lead the Group’s Enterprise AI Office, defining the overall AI vision, strategy, operating model, and governance framework.

The role will work closely with the CEOs and executive leadership teams of each subsidiary to identify high-value opportunities where Artificial Intelligence can improve operational performance, customer experience, workforce productivity, risk management, and commercial outcomes.

The CAIO will oversee the development of the Group AI roadmap, evaluate enterprise AI technologies, establish governance policies, manage strategic partnerships with AI technology providers, and ensure that all AI initiatives align with the Group’s strategic objectives and regulatory requirements.

Beyond technology, the CAIO will champion organisational change by promoting AI literacy, fostering responsible AI adoption, and building an innovation culture that enables every business to leverage AI effectively.

The role carries enterprise-wide accountability for AI strategy, investment prioritisation, governance, and measurable business outcomes.

Candidates should possess extensive executive leadership experience in Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation, Enterprise Technology, Innovation, or Strategy within large and complex organisations.

Proven experience leading enterprise-wide transformation programmes, developing AI or digital strategies, and engaging with C-suite stakeholders is essential. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong commercial judgement, exceptional stakeholder management, strategic thinking, and the ability to translate emerging technologies into practical business value.

Experience working within diversified groups or multi-business environments across the GCC will be considered highly advantageous.