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Executive Director – Process Automation

Job Description

Roles & Responsibilities

Job Summary:

We are seeking a visionary and results-driven Executive Director – Process Automation to lead automation strategy and execution across oil and gas operations. This executive role is responsible for driving innovation in process control, digital transformation, and intelligent automation across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with strategic leadership to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and productivity through cutting-edge automation technologies.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Define and execute the global automation strategy across all business units within oil & gas operations.

  • Lead the selection, design, integration, and deployment of process control systems, including DCS, PLC, SCADA, SIS, and advanced process control (APC).

  • Champion digital transformation initiatives involving AI, machine learning, IIoT, and cloud automation technologies.

  • Develop and manage partnerships with automation vendors, system integrators, and technology providers.

  • Ensure compliance with international safety and automation standards (IEC, API, ISA, etc.) and cybersecurity protocols (ISA/IEC 62443).

  • Oversee large-scale capital automation projects from conceptual design through commissioning.

  • Align automation initiatives with corporate goals for safety, energy efficiency, and production optimization.

  • Drive enterprise-wide standardization of control architecture, instrumentation platforms, and maintenance practices.

  • Provide thought leadership and mentor cross-functional teams including engineering, IT, OT, and operations.

  • Represent the company in industry forums and drive innovation roadmaps.


Key Focus Areas:

  • Enterprise Process Automation Strategy

  • Digital Transformation and Intelligent Operations

  • Cybersecurity for OT/ICS Systems

  • Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS)

  • Industrial IoT, Advanced Process Control, and AI Integration

  • Standardization and Governance of Automation Assets


Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical, Electronics, Instrumentation, or Automation Engineering (PhD preferred)

  • 20+ years of experience in oil & gas automation, with at least 5+ years in executive or director-level roles

  • Expertise in DCS, PLC, SCADA, APC, and safety systems (e.g., Honeywell, Emerson, Siemens, Yokogawa)

  • Strong understanding of digital oilfield concepts, analytics, and predictive maintenance

  • Proven experience managing multi-million dollar automation projects and global teams

  • Certifications in functional safety, cybersecurity, or project management are advantageous

  • Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills

Job Detail
  • Work Type: Full Time
  • Languages to be known : Arabic, English
  • Country: United Arab Emirates
  • City: Dubai
  • Job Category : Oil and Gas