Project Expert / Project Director – Construction

We are retained by a leading infrastructure operator in the UAE to appoint an experienced Project Manager / Expert to join a major programme management consultancy (PMC) environment.

Role Purpose

Lead the delivery of major railway infrastructure and construction packages across the organisation’s programme, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with technical, contractual, and stakeholder requirements.

The role will provide strategic leadership across construction, engineering, project controls, commercial, HSE, quality, and stakeholder management functions for complex rail and transportation infrastructure projects. The orhanisation is responsible for the development, construction and operation of the UAE’s national railway network, including major civil, systems and passenger rail infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end delivery of major rail infrastructure and construction projects.
• Manage EPC contractors, consultants and key stakeholders.
• Ensure programme milestones, budgets and quality objectives are achieved.
• Provide strategic oversight of construction methodologies, logistics and execution plans.
• Lead project governance, reporting and risk management processes.
• Drive HSE performance and ensure compliance with UAE and international railway standards.
• Manage interfaces between civil, track, systems, stations, depots and operational stakeholders.
• Lead commercial reviews, variation management and claims resolution.
• Chair senior project and progress meetings with executive stakeholders.
• Support procurement, tender evaluations and contractor performance management.
• Ensure successful project handover to operations and maintenance teams.

Requirements

• Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or related discipline.
• 20+ years’ experience delivering major infrastructure projects.
• Minimum 10 years in senior leadership positions (Project Director, Construction Director, Delivery Director, Programme Manager).
• Extensive experience on rail, metro, high-speed rail, transportation or mega infrastructure projects.
• Proven track record managing projects exceeding AED 1 billion in value.
• Strong experience managing international contractors and multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience within GCC preferred.
• Professional certifications such as PMP, MRICS, CEng or equivalent preferred.