AI and Digital Innovation Manager, Sustainability, Abu Dhabi

A high-profile global sustainability initiative is seeking an AI and Digital Innovation Manager to lead the development of its next generation of AI-enabled platforms, data systems and digital tools.
This is a newly created role within an ambitious organisation entering a major phase of growth. It offers the opportunity to build something from the ground up and use AI to transform how a globally recognised initiative identifies, evaluates and supports sustainability innovators around the world.

About the AI and Digital Innovation Manager Role

The AI and Digital Innovation Manager will lead the integration of AI across the organisation’s full programme lifecycle, from applications and assessment through to impact measurement and engagement with previous winners.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading the development of an AI-enabled submissions and judging platform.
• Introducing AI tools for due diligence, eligibility screening and analysis.
• Developing an internal AI chatbot for historical research, comparisons and organisational insight.
• Creating automated impact dashboards, visualisation tools and searchable digital directories.
• Building a centralised data platform covering applicants, finalists, winners, judging outcomes and impact information.
• Managing technology vendors and ensuring projects are delivered on time and to the required standard.
• Leading requirements gathering, user testing and the rollout of new platforms.
• Ensuring AI tools comply with responsible AI, data privacy, cybersecurity and UAE data residency requirements.
• Helping colleagues understand, adopt and make effective use of AI-enabled tools.
• Identifying emerging technologies that can improve efficiency, decision-making and stakeholder experience.

The role will work closely with teams across research, evaluation, technology, data security and compliance. It requires someone who can translate technical possibilities into practical solutions that create genuine organisational value.

The Ideal AI and Digital Innovation Manager Candidate

You will bring substantial experience leading AI, digital transformation, data or enterprise technology initiatives.

You should have:

• Experience delivering AI-enabled platforms or data-driven digital products.
• Strong knowledge of AI and machine learning, including LLMs, NLP, APIs, data pipelines and vector databases.
• Experience managing external technology vendors and complex cross-functional projects.
• An understanding of AI governance, responsible AI, privacy and cybersecurity.
• The ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, project management and problem-solving skills.
• An entrepreneurial and hands-on approach to innovation.
• This position is designated for a UAE National
• Relocation to Abu Dhabi is required

Experience within sustainability, innovation, research, government, a global foundation, prize or other mission-led organisation would be particularly valuable.

Why Apply for This AI Innovation Role?

This is not a traditional IT role. It is an opportunity to shape how AI is used across a high-profile global initiative and build platforms that could transform its international reach, operational effectiveness and long-term impact.

The organisation is growing rapidly and is looking for people who are proactive, resilient and excited by the opportunity to build new capabilities within a small, ambitious team.

The role is based in Abu Dhabi, and relocation is required.

Apply

Hanson Search is managing this confidential appointment. Please submit your CV and a brief overview of your experience delivering AI-enabled platforms or digital transformation programmes.

Please apply only if your skills and experience closely match the requirements of the role.

Hanson Search is a globally recognised, award-winning talent advisory and headhunting consultancy. Our expertise lies in building successful ventures worldwide through our recruitment, interim and executive search in communications, sustainability, public affairs and policy, digital marketing and sales and commercial. We also support organisations in building out their tech functions, whether that means data and analytics or a Cheif AI Officer.

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all.  You can access our Diversity and Inclusion Policy here.