Research Asset Management Lead

Position SummaryThe Asset Management Lead, under Research Infrastructure and Equipment Maintenance, will be responsible for leading the development and implementation of asset management practices and standards across the Research Community, covering Platforms, Centers-of-Excellence, Core Labs, Principal Investigators, and applicable KAUST innovation tenants, aiming at ISO55001 alignment or compliance. This involves developing, implementing, reviewing, and improving processes, procedures, and tools to optimize asset value across the Research Portfolio while meeting safety and performance requirements. This person will also be responsible for working with shared research facilities to develop business opportunities that increase the use of KAUST’s shared research assets and associated technical expertise.This position involves maximizing asset value, developing business opportunities, and ensuring operational excellence in asset management.ResponsibilitiesMaximize Asset Value: support KAUST Research department in maximizing the value gained from KAUST’s research assets.Utilization & Business Development: Develop and implement initiatives that increase the use of KAUST’s shared research assets and associated technical expertise, driving greater institutional return on investment.Leadership & Team Management: Lead and mentor the asset management team, overseeing people development, operational processes, and business performance to ensure excellence in service delivery.Policy & Best Practices: Establish, implement, and continuously refine asset management policies, strategies, and procedures in alignment with global best practices and international standards.Operational Excellence: Maintain and enhance core support services, including asset tagging, inventory control, classification, capitalization, utilization tracking, and end-user certification for research assets.Data & Analytics: Design, maintain, and improve dashboards and analytical reports to monitor asset lifecycles, support data-driven decision-making, and enable effective replacement and renewal planning.Data Integrity: Partner with researchers and laboratory equipment maintenance leads to ensure the accuracy and consistency of asset data, classification, and records.Stakeholder Liaison: Act as the primary interface between the KAUST Research Department and the Finance Asset Management team, ensuring alignment on all matters related to research assets.Sustainability & Redeployment: Optimize the redeployment of surplus research assets, extend asset lifespans where possible, and minimize premature disposal to support KAUST’s sustainability and cost-effectiveness goals.Ability to work extended hours (as needed).Perform other job-related duties as assigned.Ability to travel 30% of the time for training and business development needs.QualificationsEssential:Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering, master’s is preferred.Training or certification on one or more asset management software.Training or certification on one or more asset utilization tracking software.Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.English language fluency.Preferable:Proficiency with using SAP for asset management.Training on Infinity asset utilization software.Training in asset management quality standards, such as ISO5500.Professional asset management certifications, such as IAM or CAMA.Required SkillsAbility to develop and execute long-term strategies for lifecycle planning, utilization, and optimization of research assets.Knowledgeable on the portfolio of a broad range of manufacturers of laboratory/research equipment and their classification.In-depth knowledge of laboratory/research equipment, asset tracking systems, and compliance requirements in academic environments.Strong analytical skills to evaluate asset performance, utilization trends, and cost-effectiveness for evidence-based planning.Proficiency in budgeting, cost recovery models, capitalization, and total cost of ownership analysis for research assets.Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams, mentor staff, and foster collaboration across departments.Skilled in building partnerships with researchers, faculty, vendors, and administrative units to maximize value from assets.Understanding of higher education policies, safety standards, and audit requirements for asset management.Capacity to introduce new systems, digital tools, and best practices that drive efficiency, sustainability, and continuous improvement.Preferred SkillsMinimum 6 years’ experience managing research assets in an academic or industrial setting.Minimum 6 years developing business opportunities for research assets utilization.Minimum 6 years’ experience managing a diverse technical team members.Experience implementing asset utilization tracking is highly desirable.Knowledge of KAUST research facilities and other research facilities around the kingdom is highly desirable.Experience implementing ISO 55000 in an academic setting is considered a plus.