Internal IT Manager
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Full timeOn-site
Job description
IT Manager
On-site | Abu Dhabi
AppliedAI is at the forefront of redefining the future of work through cutting-edge AI solutions. We empower organizations by automating complex, document-heavy processes, ensuring unparalleled efficiency and accuracy. Our commitment to synergizing human intelligence with artificial intelligence helps our clients excel in highly regulated industries, including healthcare, finance, and insurance.
We are seeking an IT Manager to lead and manage AppliedAI’s internal IT operations, infrastructure, and enterprise systems. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring both strategic oversight and active involvement in day-to-day IT operations within a fast-paced, advanced technology startup environment.
The role will primarily support our UAE operations while also overseeing IT needs for our APAC office(s), ensuring consistent standards, security, and service quality across locations. You will be responsible for delivering reliable, secure, and scalable IT services that support business operations, while partnering with engineering teams on corporate tooling, access, and operational needs.
IT Operations & Infrastructure
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Own and drive end-to-end IT operations across UAE and APAC offices
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Ensure high availability, performance, and reliability of IT systems and services
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Manage corporate IT infrastructure including networks (LAN/WAN/WiFi), end-user devices, audio/video, and internal systems
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Act as the primary escalation point for critical IT issues and incidents
End-User & Workplace Technology
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Oversee IT support (L1/L2/L3), including remote support for APAC teams
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Manage onboarding and offboarding processes across regions
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Ensure seamless operation of workplace tools (email, collaboration platforms, identity & access)
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Continuously improve end-user experience and IT service delivery
Driving AI, Automation, & Innovation
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Drive adoption of AI and automation across IT and business operations to improve efficiency and reduce manual work
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Continuously identify and implement innovative, AI-driven solutions to modernize systems and enhance overall performance
Security & Compliance
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Implement and enforce IT security policies and controls
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Manage endpoint security, access controls, and data protection practices
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Drive security awareness and best practices across the organization
Vendor & Asset Management
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Manage IT vendors, procurement, and licensing across regions
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Maintain hardware and software inventory and lifecycle management
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Optimize vendor performance, contracts, and IT spend
IT Governance & Processes
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Establish and maintain IT policies, standards, and procedures
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Implement and manage incident, problem, and change management processes
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Drive ITIL-aligned best practices and continuous improvement
Collaboration with Platform Engineering
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Partner with engineering teams on corporate tooling, access management, and operational needs
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Support internal systems and environments required for effective collaboration
Team Leadership
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Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing IT function
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Operate as a hands-on leader (player-coach), balancing execution with leadership
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Define and track SLAs, KPIs, and service quality standards
Required Skills & Qualifications
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Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field
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7+ years of experience in IT operations / infrastructure, with leadership responsibility
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Proven experience in a hands-on IT leadership role within a fast-paced or scaling environment
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Experience managing multi-location IT environments (UAE + APAC preferred)
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Strong technical knowledge of:
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networks, systems, and endpoint management
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identity & access management
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cybersecurity fundamentals
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Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and stakeholder management skills
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Strong communication and ability to work cross-functionally
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience in a high-growth tech startup or scale-up environment
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Experience building or scaling IT functions from the ground up
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Strong familiarity with Google Workspace, macOS device management, and cloud-native environments
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Certifications such as ITIL, CISSP, or cloud certifications (AWS/Azure/GCP)
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Experience supporting distributed or multi-region teams
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Comfortable operating in fast-paced, evolving environments with minimal structure
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
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IT service uptime and system availability across UAE and APAC
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Incident response and resolution times (SLA adherence)
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End-user satisfaction and service quality
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Security compliance and incident prevention
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IT cost optimization and cost savings (e.g., vendor optimization, cloud/tooling efficiency)
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Vendor performance and contract effectiveness
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Efficiency of onboarding/offboarding and IT service delivery
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Team performance, capability development, and retention
What We Offer:
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Opportunity to shape IT department in a fast-growing AI-driven company
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Exposure to cutting-edge technology environments and innovative use cases
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Collaborative, high-performance, and growth-oriented culture
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Competitive compensation, benefits, and career development opportunities