Director of Information Technology

About the role

The Director of Information Technology will shape and deliver world‑class IT services that support Zayed University’s academic and administrative missions. Reporting to senior university leadership, this role oversees the entire technology ecosystem, ensuring innovative, cost‑effective solutions for students, faculty, and staff.

Key responsibilities

• Envision and provide exemplary, practice‑based IT resources and services aligned with the university’s mission.
• Develop innovative IT solutions that advance educational and administrative goals while maximizing cost efficiency.
• Lead the design and implementation of academic and administrative support systems and ongoing data‑management platforms.
• Provide technical expertise, assist in policy formulation, and support institutional decision‑making.
• Proactively support students, staff, and faculty on technology issues.
• Inspire, develop, and manage the technology team to deliver high‑quality, timely IT services.
• Supervise staff performance, conduct hiring, and handle disciplinary actions and training.
• Represent the Computing Services Department on various committees, including the Educational Technology Standing Committee.
• Plan and execute short‑ and long‑term programs to enhance IT facilities and services.
• Prepare and manage departmental budgets, control expenditures, and allocate resources.
• Maintain IT benchmarks and produce narrative and statistical reports.
• Coordinate with university administrators, contractors, and vendors to resolve issues and negotiate contracts.
• Oversee technology aspects of new campus construction and facility commissioning.
• Liaise with the Educational Technology unit to ensure adequate infrastructure support.

Required profile

• Proven leadership experience in managing large IT teams within a higher‑education environment.
• Strong background in budgeting, financial analysis, and resource allocation.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic IT plans and policies.
• Excellent communication skills for interacting with university leadership, staff, students, and external vendors.
• Experience supervising performance, conducting recruitment, and providing staff development.
• Ability to represent the department on cross‑functional committees and collaborate with educational technology units.

Required skills