Manager – Emerging Technologies

About the Role

King Salman International Airport (KSIA) is seeking a Manager for Emerging Technologies to spearhead the identification, assessment, and integration of innovative technological solutions that drive the airport’s digital transformation and operational excellence. The role oversees research and development efforts, including technology scouting, proof-of-concept validation, pilot projects, and detailed technology evaluations focused on technical viability, business impact, and deployment readiness.

Collaborating closely with various teams spanning business, technology, design, and delivery, the successful candidate will convert cutting-edge technologies into scalable, enterprise-level solutions that optimize airport operations, enhance traveler experience, and enable advanced SMART airport functionalities.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research and evaluation of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Automation, Quantum Computing, Computer Vision, Autonomous Mobility, Internet of Things (IoT), Advanced Construction Materials, and others aligned with KSIA's strategic objectives.
• Stay updated on worldwide technology trends, airport sector innovations, and relevant innovation ecosystems to pinpoint and rank opportunities for new technology adoption.
• Evaluate technology readiness levels, feasibility, market maturity, and commercial value to inform investment and implementation decisions.
• Manage the full R&D lifecycle encompassing technology scouting, proof-of-concept creation, pilot implementations, MVP validation, and deployment planning.
• Establish and track key performance indicators to gauge the success of PoCs and the resulting business benefits.
• Develop and nurture relationships with startups, academic institutions, research bodies, technology providers, innovation hubs, and venture capital networks.
• Work collaboratively with business units, technology teams, design experts, and operation managers to identify and apply technology that boosts operational efficiency and improves guest experiences.
• Ensure that all emerging technology efforts comply with enterprise architecture standards, governance policies, cybersecurity mandates, and internal regulations.
• Create business cases, perform detailed technology assessments, devise implementation strategies, and deliver executive recommendations to guide strategic investments.
• Prepare detailed executive-level reports, presentations, and insights on emerging technology initiatives for senior management review.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, or a related STEM field.
• Preferred advanced qualifications include a Master’s degree or certifications in Digital Transformation, Enterprise Architecture, Cloud Technologies, Artificial Intelligence, or other Emerging Technologies.
• Additional professional certifications such as PMP, Agile, AI, or Innovation Management are advantageous.

Experience & Skills

• 6 to 8 years of relevant experience in Emerging Technologies, Research & Development, Digital Transformation, Innovation, or Engineering domains.
• Experience within the aviation sector is preferred; however, applicants from transportation, smart city projects, defense, or large-scale infrastructure backgrounds are invited to apply.
• Demonstrated expertise in assessing, validating, and deploying emerging technologies in complex enterprise settings.
• Proven leadership in managing technology assessments, PoCs, pilot programs, and cross-functional technology rollouts.
• Track record of partnering with startups, innovation communities, venture capital entities, universities, or research organizations.
• Strong skills in analytical reasoning, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent proficiency in communication, presentations, and project coordination.
• Fluent professional English language skills, both spoken and written.