KSA Head of Systems Vice President

MUFG, a globally respected financial institution, is seeking a Head of Systems for its Riyadh Branch. This pivotal role offers you the opportunity to shape and oversee the local IT landscape in one of the world’s most dynamic banking environments. As the primary local authority for all technology systems, you will ensure regulatory alignment, operational resilience, and seamless collaboration with regional and global teams. You will be at the heart of critical system ownership, including SARIE and Tantfeeth platforms, while acting as a key interface with regulators, auditors, and vendors. MUFG is renowned for its commitment to integrity, responsibility, and people-focused values—making this an exceptional environment for those who thrive on supporting others, sharing knowledge, and driving continuous improvement. With a strong emphasis on professional development, cultural inclusivity, and flexible working opportunities, this is your chance to make a lasting impact within a supportive and high-performing team.

What you'll do:

• Oversee the effective delivery and maintenance of all IT systems and infrastructure for the Riyadh Branch by ensuring daily operations are executed smoothly and documented according to internal control standards.
• Act as the local system owner for critical Saudi regulatory systems such as SARIE and Tantfeeth platforms, ensuring service availability, incident governance, vendor coordination, and full regulatory compliance at all times.
• Provide governance oversight for infrastructure services—including end-user computing, data centre operations (both local and regional), server management, network appliances, voice recorders, desktops/laptops/tablets/mobiles—and ensure accurate KPI/KRI reporting.
• Lead incident management processes by classifying incidents appropriately, coordinating resolution efforts with local teams or global resources as needed, conducting root cause analysis, and representing the branch in post-incident reviews or audits.
• Implement information security controls locally under the guidance of regional/global CISO functions; coordinate mandatory training completion; act as local coordinator during security incidents; ensure SAMA Cyber Security Framework controls are evidenced.
• Serve as Data Protection Business Process Owner (BPO) for the Systems Department by ensuring business processes comply with data protection policies; maintain process registers; coordinate DPIAs; implement technical/organisational measures to safeguard data.
• Maintain up-to-date disaster recovery plans aligned with BCM programmes; coordinate annual DR exercises with global technology teams/vendors/BCM Manager; document outcomes thoroughly to meet SAMA requirements.
• Manage relationships with local technology vendors by overseeing contracts/performance reviews/audit readiness; support procurement/licensing compliance; contribute input to regional budgeting/investment requests.
• Line manage the Riyadh Systems team by setting objectives/conducting performance reviews/identifying training needs/promoting skills development/fostering collaboration across MENA & EMEA technology teams.
• Represent MUFG at relevant external functions (conferences/seminars/consortiums); develop links with peer banks to share best practices; support audits by providing timely documentation/evidence/responses.

What you bring:

• A minimum of 7 years’ experience in Financial Services IT roles within regulated banking environments where you have demonstrated accountability for system availability/compliance.
• Must be a Saudi National
• Proven track record in leading IT teams or managing vendors—ideally with experience supporting regulatory payment systems such as SARIE or similar platforms within a financial institution.
• Relevant university degree or equivalent qualification in Information Technology; Microsoft Certified Engineer status (Active Directory/Windows Server 2008 R2 or later/Windows 7/MS Office 2010 or later) is essential.
• Hands-on expertise in operating systems (Linux/Windows/AIX), database management (Sybase), Citrix environments, browser troubleshooting skills, T24 core banking support experience preferred.
• Comprehensive understanding of information security controls (access control/cryptography/SIEM), project management methodologies, report preparation techniques, asset lifecycle governance.
• Excellent communication skills combined with first-class organisational ability—enabling you to produce scheduled reports/documentation/audit evidence accurately under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large workloads calmly under pressure while maintaining attention to detail/numerical accuracy; structured/logical approach to work is vital.
• Experience in business continuity/disaster recovery planning/testing within a banking context; familiarity with BCM integration/cyber DR event scenarios is advantageous.
• Strong interpersonal skills that foster collaboration/teamwork across diverse groups—supporting junior staff development/training needs assessment/performance review processes effectively.

What sets this company apart:

MUFG stands out as one of the world’s largest financial groups—a company built on centuries-old traditions of trustworthiness and innovation but always looking forward when it comes to technology adoption. The Riyadh Branch offers an inclusive environment where your contributions are valued not just locally but across MENA/EMEA regions thanks to strong cross-border collaboration networks. Employees benefit from access to global best practices in banking technology plus ongoing training opportunities designed to keep skills sharp amid evolving regulatory landscapes. The organisation places great emphasis on professional development—encouraging staff at every level to share ideas openly while supporting each other’s growth journeys. With a genuine commitment to integrity/responsibility/teamwork/client centricity—and an open-door policy towards new ways of working—MUFG provides an ideal platform for those who want their work to have real impact within a supportive community dedicated to excellence.

What's next:

If you are ready to take your career further by joining an internationally renowned bank where your expertise can truly make a difference—this is your moment!

Apply today by clicking on the link provided and take the next step towards becoming part of MUFG’s outstanding team in Riyadh.