Requirements
Requires a BSc in Civil Engineering (essential) and preferably an MSc in Construction Management or similar. Must have a minimum of 25 years of experience in large-scale infrastructure delivery, with at least 15 years in railway/high-speed rail projects. Proven track record as Project Director on major rail programs, with strong experience in complex, multi-disciplinary rail scopes and operating within Joint Ventures. Must possess deep understanding of Middle East project environments, ideally UAE/GCC, and strong commercial/contractual expertise.
Description
Project Director – High-Speed Rail (Civils & Track)Abu Dhabi, UAEThe OpportunityAn exciting opportunity to lead delivery of a multi-billion-dollar civils and trackwork package on one of the region's most ambitious infrastructure programmes – the high-speed rail link connecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai.Acting on behalf of a leading Joint Venture partner, this role sits at the forefront of programme delivery, with full accountability for a complex, multi-disciplinary scope across civil works, track systems, and critical interfaces.Role OverviewThe Project Director will provide end-to-end leadership of a major delivery package, ensuring safe, on-time, and commercially successful execution within a highly complex, multi-stakeholder environment.You will act as the senior representative of the Joint Venture, interfacing at executive level with the client, consortium partners, consultants, and authorities, while maintaining full control of internal delivery performance.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the delivery of a multi-billion-dollar civils and trackwork package across the high-speed rail corridorProvide strategic direction across engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning phasesManage multi-disciplinary railway scope, including:Civil infrastructure (earthworks, structures, viaducts)Track systems and alignmentDepot and interface coordinationOversee programme, cost, risk, and performance managementDrive robust commercial governance, including:Contract administrationClaims and change managementRisk mitigation strategiesAct as the primary JV interface with client, partners, and authoritiesEnsure effective integration across consortium partners and supply chainBuild and lead a high-performing project organisation, embedding strong delivery culture and accountabilityEnsure compliance with all local regulatory, safety, and quality standardsCandidate ProfileBSc in Civil Engineering (essential); MSc in Construction Management or similar preferredMinimum 25 years experience in large-scale infrastructure deliveryMinimum 15 years in railway / high-speed rail projectsProven track record as Project Director or equivalent on major rail programmesStrong experience managing complex, multi-disciplinary rail scopes (civils, track, systems interfaces, depots)Demonstrated success operating within Joint Ventures / international consortiumsDeep understanding of Middle East project environments, ideally UAE/GCCStrong commercial and contractual expertise, including claims, risk, and change controlProven ability to operate at executive stakeholder level while maintaining delivery controlPMP or equivalent certification advantageousExceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skillsWhy This RoleLandmark infrastructure programme of global significanceTrue programme-level leadership with executive exposureOpportunity to shape delivery on a next-generation high-speed rail networkLong-term, high-impact role within a complex international JV environment