Objectives of the position
This role is responsible for IT Emerging Technologies and Transformation in China, with a primary focus on driving Greater China IT transformation initiatives across key domains including Artificial Intelligence, Data, and Software Engineering. The role involves close collaboration with business and IT counterpart functions to implement and update the GRC AI strategy, while also shaping and executing the strategy for AI-ready data and platforms to enable scalable and sustainable AI capabilities.
As one of the key transformation pillars, this position will lead the in-house software development engineering team in defining the strategic direction, conducting technical scouting, benchmarking AI development practices, and evolving the software development approach to transition from current methodologies toward more innovative and agile practices. This includes identifying emerging technologies, evaluating their potential impact, and orchestrating the adoption of next-generation engineering standards to elevate delivery excellence.

Description of tasks 
• Data and Artificial Intelligence 
-Responsible for driving the GRC AI Strategy and ensuring the execution of predefined activities in alignment with global guidelines.
-Support the CDAC Board and actively participate in Global Data Ops Meetings, following up on key topics and facilitating strategic exchanges with headquarters and local markets.
-Lead lighthouse projects, including foundational initiatives for AI-ready data (e.g., Ontology development and similar data architecture efforts).
-Build and strengthen the internal Data and AI Center of Competence (CoC) to address growing business demands and enhance technical capabilities.
-Collaborate with the IT Infrastructure function to support the development of a robust AI foundation.
-Manage stakeholder expectations across all MBGC legal entities on Data and AI-related topics, ensuring alignment and transparency.
-Conduct technology scouting to identify best-in-class Data and AI solutions and provide strategic guidance to internal teams and the wider organization.
• Software Engineering
-Define the software engineering strategy in alignment with technology evolution.
-Implement the strategy in coordination with GRC IT and collaborate with all IT China functions through a well-defined collaboration model.
-Continuously assess new technology methods and development tool chains to keep the internal team’s know-how up to date.
-Establish and refine the software development life cycle (SDLC) and provide guidance to all IT China functions, IT departments and teams.
-Set up the governance framework and provide overall direction for the Software Engineering domain.
-Liaise with application teams to review and define the new vendor (or framework) strategy in line with business needs.
• Leadership
-Provide strategic leadership and direction to the software engineering, architecture, data & AI teams. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
-Develop and implement a clear vision and roadmap for technology initiatives that align with organizational goals.
-Inspire and motivate teams to achieve high performance and deliver exceptional results.
-Establish and maintain effective communication channels within the teams and across the organization.
-Promote a culture of continuous learning and professional development. Encourage team members to pursue certifications, training, and other growth opportunities.
-Lead by example, demonstrating integrity, accountability, and a commitment to quality.
-Manage and allocate resources effectively to ensure project success and optimal team performance.
-Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members. Recognize and reward outstanding contributions.
• Budget Controlling
-Budget planning for all cost items under this domain, incl. Data & AI, Software Engineering, and Market CIOs (MBTW/MBHK). Manage costs and contracts from Mercedes-Benz internal and external suppliers.
-Ensure ongoing budget transparency, manage and control the spending to be in line with the planned budget
-Continuously provide cost-effective solutions and cost-saving measures in the operation budget

Qualification
• Education
-Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering or related field, or equivalent work experience
• Experience
-Minimum 10 or more years of experience in IT and business, at least 5 years in leadership role.
-Preferably five or more years of experience in the automotive industry.
-Demonstrated experience in IT strategic planning, organization design, and development.
-Proven track record of leading software engineering and/or innovation programs or projects.
-Sufficient knowledge of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) domain.
-Experience as a Market CIO is a plus.
• Special knowledge
-Deep understanding of current and emerging technologies
-Leadership skills with the ability to develop and communicate an IT vision
-Effective influencing and negotiation skills
-Strong business acumen, including industry knowledge
-Expertise in budget planning and financial management
-Excellent verbal and written communication skills