Head of Retail Innovation - Smart Retail

Job description

Responsible for leading the group's innovation and retail experience strategy in Saudi Arabia. Develop the retail innovation roadmap and introduce AI, IoT, immersive technology, and predictive analytics into the customer journey. Pilot and scale intelligent store formats including cashier-less checkout, smart fitting rooms, mobile-first journeys, and behavioral analytics. Collaborate with IT, UX, and operations teams to ensure front‑end innovations integrate with back‑end systems. Partner with marketing and product teams to create in‑store experiences aligned with brand storytelling, loyalty, and retention goals. Lead cross‑functional innovation squads addressing challenges such as last‑mile delivery tech, in‑store personalization, and employee enablement. Source and evaluate technology partners, startups, and solution providers to accelerate the innovation agenda. Track innovation ROI by measuring engagement uplift, operational savings, and conversion improvements. Serve as a thought leader in retail innovation forums and represent the company in industry and regulatory councils.

Requirements

• 10-15 years of experience in digital innovation, retail technology, or experiential commerce
• proficiency in AI-enabled personalization, RFID, mobile commerce, or AR/VR in consumer environments
• experience designing innovation programs from ideation to commercialization within high‑footfall retail or lifestyle brands
• bachelor's degree in Business, Technology, or Innovation Management
• fluent in English with strong Arabic proficiency
• entrepreneurial spirit with corporate structure sensitivity and ability to deliver impact in a matrixed environment

Skills