The Vice President – Automation and Instrumentation is responsible for setting the strategic direction and overseeing all automation and instrumentation functions across the organization’s operational assets. This role ensures the deployment of advanced control systems, intelligent instrumentation, and industrial automation technologies that enhance productivity, safety, and regulatory compliance across plants and field operations.
Strategic Leadership:
Develop and implement a comprehensive automation and instrumentation strategy aligned with business goals, digitalization trends, and industry standards.
Project Oversight:
Lead large-scale automation and instrumentation projects, including upgrades, retrofits, and new installations across water, energy, or manufacturing infrastructure.
System Integration:
Ensure seamless integration of control systems including SCADA, DCS, PLCs, and field instrumentation into overall plant operations and enterprise systems.
Innovation & Optimization:
Drive adoption of smart instrumentation, predictive diagnostics, and advanced analytics to improve process control and reduce downtime.
Compliance & Safety:
Ensure adherence to international and regional standards (e.g., ISA, IEC, ATEX), and promote a strong safety culture in automation environments.
Vendor & Technology Partnerships:
Manage strategic relationships with automation OEMs, software vendors, and integration contractors.
Cross-Functional Leadership:
Collaborate with IT, maintenance, production, and engineering teams to align automation initiatives with broader organizational priorities.
Team Development:
Lead and mentor technical teams including automation engineers, instrumentation specialists, and control technicians.
Bachelor's or Master’s in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
15+ years of progressive experience in automation and instrumentation, including 5+ years in senior or executive roles
Strong background in SCADA, PLC, DCS, industrial communication protocols (Modbus, Profibus, OPC, etc.)
Experience across utilities, oil & gas, manufacturing, or infrastructure projects
Professional certifications (ISA CAP, PMP, etc.) preferred
Strategic vision in automation and process control
Deep understanding of instrumentation technologies and system integration
Executive leadership and project governance
Strong knowledge of digital transformation and Industry 4.0 applications
Excellent decision-making, budgeting, and vendor negotiation skills