Research, Development & Innovation Manager

Location: Muscat Reporting to: Chief Corporate & Sustainability Officer Role Objective: The RDI Manager finds, tests and introduces new technologies that improve how the company explores and mines minerals. The role identifies where artificial intelligence and digital tools can cut costs, save time or improve decisions, then proves the value through pilots before the company invests. The Manager is the link between the different business areas and disciplines in promoting the utilization of disruptive technologies, artificial intelligence and innovation to cater for different business needs, especially in exploration and mining activities Duties and Responsibilities: AI and innovation: Identify practical uses of AI across the business, such as exploration targeting, core and image analysis, predictive maintenance, document search and reporting. Evaluate AI tools and platforms for accuracy, cost, data security and fit with company systems, and recommend which to adopt. Maintain an innovation pipeline: collect ideas from all departments, score them on value and effort, and present a shortlist to management. Draft guidelines for the responsible use of AI, covering confidential geological data, vendor terms and human review of AI outputs. Run awareness sessions and short training so staff can use approved AI tools in their daily work. Technology research and evaluation Monitor technology trends in mining and exploration, including remote sensing, drones, sensors, automation and exploration software. Compare vendors and solutions against defined criteria and prepare recommendation reports. Build relationships with technology suppliers, technology partners, universities and research bodies. Pilots and trials Plan and run pilot projects with clear objectives, timelines, budgets and measures to succeed. Document results and recommend whether to adopt, extend or stop each trial. Support the handover of successful pilots to IT and operations for full rollout. Analysis and reporting Prepare business cases and feasibility studies covering cost, benefit and risk. Analyze data and present findings using Excel and Power BI or similar tools. Write clear technical reports and present them to management. Requirements and coordination Gather needs from geology, exploration and mining operation teams and write functional requirements for AI & Innovation vendors. Support user testing, training and adoption of new systems and technologies. Education: Bachelor's degree in geology, mining engineering, geomatics or a related field, mastery knowledge in use of AI technology is must. Experience: Minimum 7 years of experience. Involvement in at least one technology, digital or process improvement project. Experience with at least one mining or geological software package. Good written and spoken English. Special Skills & Knowledge: - Hands-on use of AI tools in a work setting, or a short course or certificate in AI, data analytics or digital transformation. - Project management training or certification. - Understands data concepts: databases, data quality, and how exploration and production data are structured. - Able to write functional requirements, business cases and technical reports. Behavioural: - Curious and self-driven; keeps up with new technology. - Analytical and evidence-based; reports honestly when a trial does not work. - Explain technical subjects clearly to non-technical managers. - Build trust with geologists, engineers and site teams. - Organized; can run several small projects at once.