Head of Digital Operations & Planning

Role Overview

Al Jazeera Media Network is looking for a strong operational leader to guide performance, execution, and efficiency across its Digital Division. Reporting to the Manager of Business Performance, this position is responsible for running the division’s operational cadence, strengthening governance, supporting financial discipline, and helping the digital teams deliver on strategic goals.

The role is central to improving resilience, maintaining cost control, and supporting long-term growth across editorial, product, technology, audience, and commercial functions.

Strategic Operations

• Direct the daily operating rhythm of the Digital Division so business goals are delivered smoothly and effectively.
• Convert strategic priorities into clear operating plans, measurable targets, and execution structures.
• Improve performance across digital functions through ongoing process refinement, automation, and operational streamlining.
• Create and maintain governance policies, operating standards, and best practices that support sustainable growth.

Financial Management and Budget Ownership

• Own the planning and preparation of the division’s annual OPEX and CAPEX budgets.
• Track forecasts, monitor spending, and review budget variances with a strong control mindset.
• Strengthen financial governance while spotting opportunities to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
• Build business cases and financial models to support digital investment and transformation decisions.
• Work closely with Finance on budgeting cycles, reporting, procurement planning, and approval processes.

Business Performance

• Design and manage performance frameworks, KPIs, and executive dashboards for the Digital Division.
• Measure delivery against strategic objectives and advise on corrective actions when performance gaps appear.
• Prepare leadership updates, executive reports, and operational insights for senior stakeholders and committees.
• Use analytics and business intelligence to support informed operational decisions.

Operational Governance and Risk

• Set up strong governance structures, internal controls, compliance processes, and continuity planning.
• Oversee operational risk, audit preparedness, and implementation of governance recommendations.
• Ensure adherence to Al Jazeera policies, procurement rules, financial regulations, and corporate governance standards.

Resource Planning and Business Support

• Lead annual workforce planning and resource allocation across digital teams.
• Coordinate with HR on organization planning, hiring forecasts, succession planning, and capability building.
• Support efficient coordination across Editorial, Product, Technology, Commercial, Audience Growth, and Corporate Services functions.

Procurement and Vendor Management

• Oversee procurement planning and supplier governance for digital operations.
• Manage vendor performance, contractual compliance, and commercial relationships.
• Support tender activities, supplier evaluations, and strategic sourcing work.

Stakeholder Management

• Maintain effective partnerships with Editorial, Product, Engineering, Technology, Finance, HR, Legal, Procurement, Corporate Strategy, and executive teams.
• Represent the Business Performance Unit in governance meetings, steering groups, and executive forums.
• Advise senior digital leaders on performance, financial planning, and organizational effectiveness.

Experience and Education

• A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Operations Management, Economics, Management, Engineering, or a related field is required.
• 12 to 15 years of progressive leadership experience in operations, business management, finance, business performance, or corporate strategy.
• Background in complex operational settings within digital media, broadcasting, technology, telecommunications, or large multinational organizations.
• Proven accountability for managing multi-million-dollar operating and capital budgets.
• Experience leading strategic planning, governance, performance management, and organizational change initiatives.
• Strong record of leading cross-functional teams and delivering operational improvements at scale.