The Opportunity

At EY, we support leading organizations across Saudi Arabia in shaping and executing large-scale Data and AI transformations that drive measurable business value. As a Director within our Data & AI practice, you will play a senior leadership role, combining deep consulting experience, market presence, and business development capability to grow our footprint and deliver strategic impact for clients.

This role requires a seasoned consulting leader with strong experience in data governance, data management, analytics, and AI, as well as the ability to originate and deliver complex engagements. Experience supporting government and public sector organizations in Saudi Arabia, including work aligned with National Data Management Office (NDMO) requirements, is highly relevant.

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership for Data & AI consulting engagements across the Saudi market, with a strong focus on government and public sector clients. Own and grow a portfolio of client relationships, with clear responsibility for market development, revenue growth, and pipeline conversion. Lead business development activities, including account planning, opportunity shaping, proposal leadership, and deal closure. Advise senior client stakeholders on enterprise data strategies, Data and AI operating models, business use cases, and transformation roadmaps. Lead data governance and data management programs, including governance frameworks, policies, standards, stewardship models, data quality, metadata management, master data management, and information lifecycle management. Guide clients on alignment with Saudi data regulations, standards, and controls, including applicable NDMO frameworks and requirements. Oversee the delivery of complex, multi-workstream Data & AI programs, ensuring quality, value realization, risk management, and client satisfaction. Bring practical knowledge of data platforms, analytics, AI, and emerging technologies to client discussions and solution design. Collaborate with regional and global EY teams to bring the best of the firm to clients. Mentor and develop consulting teams, supporting capability building, knowledge sharing, and high-quality delivery.

Skills and Attributes for Success

Deep understanding of Data and AI from business, functional, governance, and technology perspectives, supported by consulting experience. Strong expertise in data governance and data management, including the design and implementation of enterprise frameworks and operating models. Good understanding of the Saudi government and public sector environment, including NDMO expectations and data-related regulatory requirements. Strong market presence with established client relationships and credibility with senior executives. Proven business development mindset with experience building pipelines, shaping opportunities, and converting complex deals. Excellent commercial acumen, including pricing, contracting, delivery oversight, and margin management. Highly credible advisor with strong executive communication, stakeholder management, and influencing skills. Ability to bridge strategy, governance, technology, and measurable business outcomes within a consulting environment.

Experience And Qualifications

Minimum 12-15 years of professional experience, predominantly within management or technology consulting. Significant leadership experience within the Middle East region, preferably Saudi Arabia. Demonstrated experience leading and growing Data & AI consulting practices, portfolios, or major transformation programs. Proven experience in data governance and data management engagements, ideally for government or public sector organizations. Knowledge of NDMO-aligned frameworks and requirements, with experience translating them into practical governance, management, and compliance initiatives. Background in a reputable consulting firm; Big 4 experience is beneficial but not mandatory. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field such as data, computer science, information systems, engineering, business, or a related discipline.

Language Requirements

Professional proficiency in English is required. Arabic language skills are preferred.

Why EY

EY offers a unique platform to lead market-defining Data and AI agendas across Saudi Arabia. As a Director, you will operate at the intersection of strategy, governance, technology, and business leadership, shaping high-impact programs aligned with Saudi Arabia’s transformation priorities while building long-term client partnerships and growing the practice.